Although cats are not often very keen on traveling, taking them on trips could be a unique adventure for both of you. From a recent post by Melissa Sims, who runs a Houston appliance repair business out in Texas told us in a recent post that in her humble opinion, cats can still make great travel companions. However, there are a few hurdles that you may experience and, it is important to know how to effectively address them without ruining the trip. The following are important tips for traveling with a cat that you should keep in mind.
Check the Health of the Cat
The fact that your cat is playful, lively and seems all good at home does not guarantee that they are fit to travel. Besides, super anxious cats can also be very exhausting when traveling. For such cats that are hyperactive, you may want to check with a vet for sedatives before the trip.
Depending on the health of the cat and destination, the vet might recommend medications. Generally, consulting with a vet about the fitness of the cat for travel is critical to safe and stress-free trips.
Confirm Airline Regulations
If your cat is safe to fly, you should also check with the airline to know their regulations beforehand. Most flights will allow you to crate the cat under your seat but, some also restrict cats and other pets to luggage or cargo hold. If you can travel with the cat in the cabin, find out the measurements of the space under the seat to know the ideal size of the crate. You should also ask the airline about any paperwork that may be required for flying with a cat.
Get a Comfortable and Safe Crate
Having a comfortable crate to house the cat while in transit will help calm their nerves and keep them in place. A good crate should be spacious enough to allow the cat to stand up, stretch and move its body without any restraint. Lay soft padding at the bottom of the crate. For better comfort, it is advisable to use the cat’s favorite blanket or place its toy and some snacks in the crate to give the feeling of home. The crate should also be secured to the seat for the safety of the cat in case of an accident.
Exercise Safety Precautions
Apart from the crate, it is also advisable that you prepare some form of ID for the cat before the trip. The ID should bear your name, address, and contacts and, worn around the neck of the cat. If you have to let the cat loose, do not take your eyes off it.
Traveling with a cat can be stressful but, also fun if you take time to prepare well for the trip. The above tips will help you in making the best preparations for a nice and fun trip with your cat.
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