We often think of cats as “place-oriented” beings who would rather stay in their own space than move out of their comfort zone and while that is the case that doesn't mean that they can't make for lovely travel companion.

As we found out, cats can be very lively travel buddies if only we take the time to create a positive experience for them. Instead of treating a trip with a pet as a means to an end, it is important to make this an enriching experience for them so your feline companion is not only less stressed - making it a more pleasant trip for all, but is also open to more travels in the future!

It's important to think through several important logistical issues in order to make travel as smooth and easy for them (and for us) as possible:

• Will there be a pet-friendly motel/hotel on the way?
• What about food, drink and potty for your cat?
• Is the harness comfortable and not too hot? (We travelled during summer)
• Is the cat carrier comfortable for your cat and does it have sufficient ventilation?

Now, our 3-year old ragdoll Odin was trained to go with us in car trips from kittenhood. He sits in his carrier like a king, purring away and occasionally meows or chatters at traffic.

However I know that some cats simply hate car travel!

"When considering why so many cats have an averse reaction to trips in the car, think about their experience with that action. Many times, a car ride is associated with a dreaded trip to the veterinarian. This negative association, combined with the motion of the car and all the new sights, sounds, and smells that go along with it can cause a total sensory overload and stress for your cat. This may be why your feline friend harbors her distaste for traveling in the car." -  Explains Shannen McNee, CCBC at The Toronto Humane Society

What we have learnt through trial and error with both Odin and previous cats is to teach your cat that their carrier safe space! Like Shannen McNee stated above, negative associations with vet visits have them completely stressed out with even the cat carrier being brought out in some cases. Have your cat carrier open and available at all times in order to make it as inviting as possible and to diminish that association. It needs to be seen as a place your cat can sleep or visit in safety. . 

Feeding your cat some treats in her carrier and giving physical affection can create a positive association as well. Practice entry and exit from the carrier to make it as routine a process as possible, as this will be important during travel. It is best to start this as early on as possible so your cat has plenty of time to adapt.

Mid-way on our trip we stayed in a hotel and our first point of business was to feed him and to start his water fountain to give him something to drink (our royal highness does not drink stale water). We have harness trained him since he was young and took a few pit stops along the way for potty breaks so he wasn't rushing to the toilet but having your same litterbox and litter as you use at home will have your cat feeling all the more comfortable. 

In the middle of the night he started having his usual zoomies and running around the small hotel room- even knocking off my glass of water! It was only until around 3.00am when he finally fell asleep on mom's bed.

It is important to note that your cat's usual energy levels may change when in unfamiliar environments. Odin remained mostly the same, but it is very common for cats in new environments to either become a lot more shy and prone to hiding under beds etc. or to become over excited from the adventure and keep you up all night! Figure out which way your cat is leaning and provide a safe enclosed cat bed with their scent prepared if they are more apprehensive of the new environment, or lots of toys and playtime if they're energised so hopefully they exhaust themselves and you can get a goodnights sleep!

After that, the rest of the trip was easy - he sat in his carrier backpack for 6 hours like a true road-trip companion, occasionally coming out with us to stop at a café on the way, quickly becoming the town's favourite. 

I heard a suggestion to play your cat's favorite tunes in the car. That's right, there's actually music created specifically to calm cats (and I have to say, it's quite soothing for humans too). Composer David Teie created Music for Cats, an album of classical, species-specific music that scientific studies have shown actually reduce stress for kitties! Check it out, it worked wonders on Odin (luckily he wasn't the driver, or he would've fallen asleep at the wheel!).

If we would have known of a reliable cat house sitter, we would have organised that option instead. We weren't sure how Odin would last on such a long trip and him staying home would be the least stressful option for him. However, last Christmas it was a really short-notice trip and thankfully he passed his first road trip with flying colours!

Any recommendations for cat/house sitters?

Cheers,

LoveMyCat™