Travelling with cats
When you plan on travelling with your cat, stop… First think about whether it is worth to take your cat with you on trips. Adventurous trips in distant countries are obviously not suitable for a cat. The animal must feel at ease as well as you. However, if you go to an apartment or campsite where animals are allowed, you may enjoy a pleasant holiday with your cat.Vaccinations
Before you leave on your trip, there are some important things to arrange. For a trip abroad your cat should have a recent health statement. Your cat should also be vaccinated against rabies; and don't forget to take evidence of this vaccination with you. The vaccination is valid starting one month after administration. Also make sure that your pet has received worm treatment. In some countries your cat will be quarantined for a while, so please inquire in advance about the applicable rules.
What to bring?
During the trip, your cat is confronted with many new things. Its known environment and fixed habits are gone. This can make your cat very insecure, so try to incorporate some structure and predictability in your trip. Bring a supply of its regular food, a pillow or basket with your cat’s scent on it, his favourite toys, and so on. That way he will adapt to the new environment more quickly. Feeding his regular food will help to avoid digestive problems. Make sure you bring a litter box and put the box on a surface that is easy to clean, so nothing gets soiled. Don't forget to bring your cat’s pet passport.
A long journey
It is a good idea to prepare your cat for a long car trip. You can put the travel carrier in the living room several days beforehand, so that your cat can familiarise itself with it. Do not feed your cat solid food within a few hours before departure, only water. Fortunately cats are less likely to be affected by motion sickness than dogs. If your cat does suffer from motion sickness, give him a travel sickness tablet in advance. There are tablets suitable for pets available. While on the road make sure that your cat is not caught in the draught of an open window. Stop occasionally to let your cat use the litter box. This is easier if your cat is accustomed to walking on a leash and collar. It is a welcome break after a long journey as well. To prevent dehydration during the trip, regularly supply your cat with water.
At your destination
Allow your cat a few days to get accustomed to its new environment. Stay close to your animal as much as possible, especially when it is the first time the cat is travelling. Make sure that you do not leave windows or doors open through which the cat can escape. Let staff know that a cat is present. Put a small tube with your address and phone number on the cat’s collar, just in case it escapes despite your precautions. It is a good idea to inquire in advance where the nearest vet is located, so you know where to go in case your cat needs urgent medical help. Be aware of ticks.