Although we usually leave our cat at home when we go on vacation to avoid disturbing the routine of an animal that is very sensitive to change, the truth is that, for various reasons, we can also choose to take it with us.
If this is your case, so that leaving home is pleasant for everyone, then, in this article on our site in collaboration with Catit, we review the tips for take our cat on vacation with safety and peace of mind.
Can I take my cat on vacation?
First of all, if your vacation is going to be short, about 2-3 days, may not compensate to move the cat, especially if he is shy, fearful or easily stressed. Also, if you suspect that he may be sick, is or is in the recovery period from any ailment or surgical intervention, the most appropriate thing is not to move him from his environment or away from his regular veterinarian. Discover How to leave your cat at home if you go on vacation in this other article.
On the other hand, if you decide to travel with your cat, make sure that the place where you plan to stay is pet friendly. Also take into account the admission of animals and their conditions in the transport you have to use. Finally, look for a trusted veterinarian in the place of destination and find out in advance if there is any deworming or vaccination necessary or recommended to guarantee the protection of your cat during the holidays.
How to prepare my cat to go on vacation?
Since most cats are very sensitive to any change in their environment, it is a good idea, a few days before leaving the house, to start using calming pheromones, either as a spray or as a diffuser. These are substances that, although odorless to us, transmit a sense of calm, security and familiarity to cats, since they are the pheromones they emit when they rub their faces against us or their properties. We can spray these pheromones on his carrier, which should be presented to him in advance, his bed, his toys or any utensil that we want to take on vacation, such as his favorite scratching post. This way, you will feel a little less lost when you see yourself outside the home. Bach flowers can also be used with a calming effect, although they have only shown a placebo effect.
Of course, it's a good idea to bring your food as well to avoid adding another change to your routine, which, moreover, if it's abrupt, could trigger digestive disorders. Also, if you don't have it yet, put the microchip on your cat, and put a collar, anti-choking or with a breakway buckle, without a bell, with a plate with your telephone number. Both devices will help recover it in case of loss.
Finally, it should be noted that for cats who become very stressed during travel, your vet may prescribe drugs to calm or sedate them. But if this is the case with your cat, you should think about whether it is worth subjecting it to such a high level of stress to take it on vacation or it would be better to consider the option of leaving it at home in the care of someone you trust.
The trip, always in a carrier
Whether we travel to our holiday destination in a private vehicle or by train, plane, etc., a good carrier is essential. It should be of a manageable size, but large enough for the adult cat to stand upright and turn around without complications. In addition, it must be robust to protect it and, obligatorily, its closure must be perfect to prevent it from opening during transport. If the cat is not going to travel in our car, we must contact the corresponding transport company to inform us of the requirements that our carrier must meet.
An example of a carrier to travel with our cat safely and comfortably is the Catit Cabrio carrier It is a multifunctional carrier with multiple utilities for safe travel, with integrated grab handle and carry strap. It can be fastened in the car using the seat belts. It is spacious and supports up to 11.3 kg of weight. In addition, its design stands out, with 360º accessibility, and the number of openings it has, which allow adequate air flow and, consequently, optimal ventilation. The floor is non-slip, for the cat's comfort, and it has gutters for collecting urine or any other food or water that may be spilled during the trip, improving hygiene. Even so, a soaker can be placed, just in case, since it is difficult to put the litter box inside the car and for the cat to use it. The characteristics of the door allow the introduction of feeders to offer the cat food or water on the way without having to open it, with the risk of escape that this could entail. Another example of a carrier to travel with our cat safely is the Profile Catit carrier for cats because it meets the measurements of the plane.
On longer journeys it is advisable to stop every so often, at least to give the cat water. If your feline is one of those who vomits, do not offer him food during the journey or in the hours before leaving home.
Tips to help your cat adapt to the vacation spot
When you arrive at the new accommodation, place all the cat's accessories, open the carrier and let him, at his own pace and without forcing, recognize your surroundings. We can use pheromones again to help you feel safe. It is very important to introduce him to the sandbox, the feeder and the drinker so that he can cover his basic needs after a trip that will have meant a time of confinement.
For more timid cats, it may be advisable to reduce their space to a single room and make sure they have a place to hide, if they so wish. Once they feel more comfortable, we can let them explore the entire accommodation. We must ensure that the windows and doors remain perfectly closed in our absence to avoid falls and leaks. Bring mosquito nets in case your accommodation does not have them. On the other hand, have your cat's up-to-date he alth card and the telephone number of a nearby veterinarian on hand.
