Preparing for Travel With or Without Your Feline Friend

May 3rd, 2024

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So you’re getting ready for that long-awaited journey. Whether you’re planning on taking your feline friend along or arranging for boarding during your absence, preparing for travel will ensure you and your furry companion have the best possible experience. The following are some tips our team at All About Cats Veterinary Hospital put together to ensure a safe and rewarding trip. 

Plan a Vet Visit

Before traveling or boarding your cat, we recommend a pre-travel check-up to lower the risk of a health emergency developing during your travels and make sure your furry friend is current on vaccinations. Check whether your destination or boarding facility has any specific requirements or needs special documentation. If your cat has motion sickness or anxiety during travel, we may recommend medications or calming aids to help. 

Consider Your Pet’s Accommodations

If you are taking your cat along, make sure you book pet-friendly accommodations well in advance to avoid last-minute hassles. If your feline friend is staying home, arrange for a boarding facility or a reliable sitter. Never leave a cat alone for an extended time. Having a friend or family member stop by will ensure your furry companion is safe in your absence. 

Prepare Your Pet Carrier

In the days before travel, keep a well-ventilated carrier around your home, and before you know it, your curious pet will be used to its presence. Make sure it meets airline specifications if traveling by air. Throw in a favorite toy and a treat or two to help encourage your cat to explore the carrier. Whether you’re planning air or car travels or are headed to your cat’s boarding facility, being comfortable in the carrier will help make the trip less stressful for you and your fur baby. 

Stock Up on Pet Essentials

Prepare a travel kit for your feline, including water, bowls, food, extra treats, disposable litter boxes, trash bags, paper towels, medication, and travel documents. Don’t forget to take a favorite toy or blanket along for comfort. If your furry friend will be watched at home or a boarding facility, make sure to have all their needs prepared well in advance. We always recommend having extra supplies to ensure your pet is well taken care of in the event you experience unexpected travel delays. 

Make Sure Your Pet Identification Is Current

Whether your cat is traveling with you, staying at home with a sitter, or headed to a boarding facility, one of the most important things to do is to ensure any identification is current. Make sure your cat wears a collar with your most recent contact information. We also recommend having your pet microchipped and registered in the microchip database. ID tags and microchips can significantly increase your chances of a happy reunion should your snuggle buddy ever wander away. 

Be Mindful of Your Pet’s Needs

Cats tend to find any changes stressful. If you’re traveling with your furry companion, try to maintain a regular feeding and exercise routine – we understand that’s often easier said than done. If your pet is home, put together clear instructions to ensure your kitty is as comfortable as possible. Leaving behind a t-shirt or towel with your scent can help give your cat a sense of security. 

Be Patient and Flexible

Traveling can be unpredictable. Be prepared to be flexible and always have a plan B in case of delays or changes. A touch of patience and a dash of humor will help keep the travels enjoyable for you and your feline companion.

Quality Cat Care Near Me in Kirkland, WA

Our team at All About Cats Veterinary Hospital is dedicated to ensuring your fluffy friend is healthy and safe at home or on the go. We are happy to provide tailored tips and guidance to help you prepare for your upcoming travels. You can always count on our compassionate team for purr-fectly paw-some care because, after all, we are all about cats!