What should you pay attention to when traveling by car with your cat?

Preparation before a car trip with cats

If you are going to go on a car trip with your cat, some preparations beforehand can help make this journey more enjoyable and trouble-free for both you and your cat. Here are a few pre-trip preparation suggestions:

• Carry cage: Get a carrier cage for your cat that is sturdy, safe and large enough for your cat to move comfortably in.
• Comfort: On a long journey, it is important to make your cat feel comfortable. You can put a soft blanket or cushion inside the cage.
• Veterinary visit: Before the trip, visit your veterinarian to make sure that all of your cat's vaccinations are up to date and that its general health condition is suitable for the trip.
• Necessary supplies: Do not forget to take with you the materials your cat will need, such as water, food, toilet box and toys.
• Getting used to car travel: If your cat is in the car for the first time. If he/she is going to travel, you can drive around for a short while to get him/her used to it.
• Plan your travel routes: When planning the places you will stop during the journey, take into account your cat's toilet, food and water needs.

• For emergencies: Have a plan for what to do in an emergency. Have the phone numbers and addresses of veterinary clinics on your route with you.
• Safety:Never leave your cat loose while traveling in the car. This can be dangerous for both you and your cat. Keep your cat in its carrier at all times.
• Medication: If your cat is restless on car rides, talk to your veterinarian about whether you can give a mild sedative or anti-anxiety medication.
• Identification Information: Make sure your cat has up-to-date identification information on its collar or microchip. If your cat runs away, this information will make it easier to find it.

How to calm a cat on a long journey?

If your cat is afraid of car journeys and feels stressed and restless, the journey can become very unpleasant for him and you. As we mentioned before, you can get your cat used to traveling by taking short trips of a few minutes (you can extend the duration over time). Additionally, if you can create a safe, comfortable, quiet and peaceful environment for your cat in the car, your cat will feel safer and calm down.

Some cats may also feel restless during car journeys because they feel nauseous. To prevent your cat from stomach upset, nausea and vomiting, you can stop giving food 3-4 hours before the trip. Take regular breaks throughout the journey to meet its toilet and water needs.

If your cat is extremely stressed or restless while traveling, it may be best to consult a veterinarian. You can get detailed information from him about calming sprays, diffusers or tablets that will help your cat relax during the journey.

Toilet problem on long journeys with cats

During long car journeys, your cat's need to go to the toilet may naturally be a problem. The following few tips can help you manage this situation:

• Foldable-portable cat toilet: These cat toilets are made of waterproof fabric and because they are foldable, they save space when not in use. It can be used during breaks and at the destination during the journey, it is extremely practical.
• Toilet timing:Before your journey, observe your cat's toilet habits. Many cats go to the toilet, especially after eating. Give food 2-3 hours before departure so that it can go to the toilet before the trip
• Regular breaks: Do not forget to take regular breaks and ensure that your cat uses the toilet box during each break.
• Reduce stress: Stress can change your cat's toilet habits and cause diarrhea.
• Cleaning supplies: Make sure you have cleaning supplies in the car in case your cat urinates outside the box. Also, arrange the blanket or cushion in your cat's carrying cage in a way that can be easily changed.

Letting a cat sleep on a long journey

If your cat feels safe and calm in the car (see: How to calm a cat on a long journey?), it should also sleep. It will get easier. In addition to the blanket or pillow you put in the carrying bag, a favorite toy or a piece of clothing can also calm him down and help him sleep. Do not talk loudly or listen to loud music in the car. If you can, tire your cat out by giving him plenty of exercise before the trip. It can sleep more easily when tired.

How many hours can cats travel?

How long cats can endure a car journey depends on the cat's personal tolerance, health status and travel conditions. But in general, most cats can tolerate a 5-6 hour car trip.

Longer trips usually require more planning and preparation. In some cases, shorter trips may be more appropriate, for example if your cat has a particular health problem, is a kitten or is very old. It's always best to talk to your veterinarian before planning a long journey.

Why do cats meow when traveling?

Although there are exceptions, cats generally do not enjoy car journeys. One of the ways to express these emotions is meowing. There may be many reasons why cats meow while traveling. Your cat may feel bad and meow to attract your attention due to situations such as fear, stress, panic, motion sickness (manifested by dizziness and nausea), needing to go to the toilet, or the car being too hot or too cold. In such cases, it is very important to correctly identify the situation causing distress in your cat.