Take the Stress Out of Traveling with Your Cat
Published October 11, 2010
There are things we can do to ensuresafety and comfort when cat travel becomes a necessity.
While some cats really do enjoy traveling, our kitties do not.
The moment our cats catch a glimpse of their cat carriers, anxiety sets in. Although we leave their carriers nonchalantly around the house, filled with cozy towels and an abundance of toys and treats, they're not falling for it.
While they do not necessarily associate carriers with that dreaded veterinarian visit, they instinctively know that once they are put in that soft bag carrier, the noisy moving car monster cannot be far behind.
Once loaded into the back seat - their cat carriers strapped securely with seat belt - Hush Puppy and Hubble, our two Oriental Shorthairs, loudly and incessantly communicate their displeasure.
But sometimes travel can't be avoided. Trips for moving, vacation, exhibition at a cat show, or a just a visit to the vet can all be stressful.
However, there are things we can do to ensure our cats' safety and comfort when travel becomes a necessity. It all depends on the mode of transportation.
1. Automobiles and RVS
While we may be forced to listen to their chorus for hours on end during transit, it is essential to keep cats securely confined in carriers or a cage to ensure everyone's safety.
When cats are permitted to roam free in a moving vehicle, they may find themselves under the pedals and in danger of injury or causing an accident. An open window presents a tempting escape route. I get goose bumps when I see a kitty perched in the rear window, soaking up the sun. It is simply courting disaster.
2. Cats as Cargo
If you plan to ship a cat, deliveries may not be on time and adverse weather conditions can cause havoc. Cats can get lost or escape.
While airlines do their best to ensure a pet's safety during shipping, unforeseen events do happen. Keep all identifying information handy. The airline, flight numbers, and airport destination are essential. Mark carriers with tags and labels.
It is prudent to insure your cat for a "tidy" sum - which reminds workers they are handling precious cargo.
3. Airplane Cabin Travel
By far the safest way to travel by air is for your cat to accompany you in the cabin. Ticket arrangements must be made in advance, as only one pet per section is permitted. Check with the airline in advance for their pet carrier requirements.
While going through security, I have recently learned there are secure rooms in which pet carriers and people can be searched. Be sure to request this option.
Handlers will permit you to take the pet out of the carrier to hold it and once scanned, will return it. Be sure your cat is wearing a collar with contact information. Keep vaccination records handy.
While traveling with cat may present challenges, with proper preparation the experience can be safe and enjoyable.
What experiences have you had traveling with cats? Please leave a comment and tell us about it.
Shortly after retiring as a social worker and psychotherapist, I discovered my "writer's voice"…
- Filed Under: Training & Behavior, Dog & Cat Breeds, News & Blogs, Behavior, Cat Shows, Trouble Sniffer, Pet Travel Guide
Training & Behavior
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Comments (2)
Three and a half years ago, when I moved with my four cats (two of them very elderly at 17yo), from MA to CA, I couldn't decide whether to rent an RV and drive or fly and get it over with. My vet recommended flying, so I was able to book two cats in the cabin with me (my daughter accompanied me) and two in hard carriers in baggage. We were told to arrive three hours before our 8:30am flight, which we took because one of the regulations was that any stopover or destination had to be less than 85 degrees. I chose to fly non-stop from Boston to LAX rather than the airport nearest to my new home because I could get the non-stop and was able to upgrade to Biz Class using miles, figuring it would be more comfortable for us and the cats. When we arrived at the airport, I was shocked that after checking in for the flight, I had to take the cats to a room nearby (no door and completely open to the terminal) and one-by-one, take the cats out of their carriers to be examined, including the carriers. I was terrified that one of the cats would panic but they didn't. It went relatively smoothly. They then took the two cats going cargo in their hard carriers (padded with towels and well marked with food packets taped to the top). They securely taped the carrier doors "just in case." We took the other two cats and our hand luggage through Security where we had to do it all over again with the two cats. Again, they were champs. It was a long flight so the cats were in the plane for well over six hours; the two that had been in cargo greeted us in baggage claim. I'd arranged for a limo to meet us so we had help with our luggage, cats, etc. For the first three days in their new home, I kept the cats confined to my bedroom and after they became curious, I let them out. They LOVE California where I can have the windows open most of the time and they can see birds, iguanas, etc. Since then, three of them have passed away but I adopted a senior Maine coon (now 13) last year and love him to death.
When shipping 12 of our precious loved ones to sanctuary during my unwanted divorce and forced relocation, we were careful to line each carrier with foam rubber, sprayed liberally with Feliway -- the cats let out not a peep during the entire 100-mile journey to the airport, and once there, were cool as cukes. The receivers reported them to be the same, and they made the journey like seasoned travellers. Of course we insured them! and it helped that the liason person was a pilot for the airline we were shipping them on --after a little attitude from one of the handlers, I made a call to our pilot and the next time I had to deal with the guy, he bent over backward to make sure we were accomodated. ;)