Taking your cat on holiday
Sometimes holidays just aren’t right unless the whole family is there, and for some people that includes their feline friend. Holidays with your cat can be an extremely fun way to bond with your kitty, but it’s important to make sure you are prepared!
By nature, cats are independent, territorial, need to be in control of their surroundings, and sensitive to different smells – all these things need to be considered before taking your cat on holiday. If you feel the experience will be stressful for your kitty we strongly advise you to rather not take them on holiday.
Here are simple things that can make a big difference:
- Before you set off, make sure your accommodation is cat-friendly. Let them know you’re bringing your pet along so things are ready for your cat’s arrival.
- Unless your cat is already familiar with the outdoors where you are going, they will need to be kept inside during your stay. Check that your accommodation is nice and secure.
- Check ahead about appropriate toilet facilities for your cat, and whether there is a secure outdoor space for them to be in – they need to be as comfortable as possible.
- If you are staying in someone’s home or in a small B&B, before travelling with your cat ask about the presence of other animals. Will your cat be alright with other pets around?
- Ensure your cat has everything they need for the first few days of the trip, until you find local supply sources such as food, water, treats, litter boxes and a good supply of litter.
- If possible, take familiar items from home to help your cat settle in well, such as scratching posts, toys and comfy bedding. Like most humans, cats love their home comforts!
- Make sure your cats vaccinations are up to date and that they are microchipped.
Transporting your cat to your holiday destination
- Never travel with the cat loose in the car – always use a sturdy and safe carrier.
- Cover the carrier with a blanket or towel during the journey to keep the cat calm.
- Secure the carrier in the car in a footwell or on a seat (with a seatbelt) so it cannot move.
- Drive carefully and gently.
- Stay calm so the cat doesn’t pick up stress from you. Be reassuring and avoid loud noises.
- For the journey, take a non-spill water bowl and bottles of fresh water. A hydrated cat is a happier one, and they might need cooling down during the trip.
Make sure there are familiar smells for the cat – use some or all of these tips:
- The cat will be less alarmed if the carrier smells familiar and reassuring.
- Put blankets/bedding in the carrier that the cat normally sleeps on or curls up on at home.
- Also, place an article of clothing belonging to the cat’s favourite person in the carrier.
- Spray the carrier with Feliway® (a calming synthetic cat scent or pheromone), at least 15 minutes before putting your cat in it.
- If your cat panics at the sight of the carrier, keep calm. Keep the basket close, but out of sight. Wrap the cat in a thick towel/blanket that smells familiar. Put the cat and the towel into the carrier quickly but gently. A top-opening carrier makes this much easier.
- Take some spare bedding (smelling of home) in case the cat is sick or soils the carrier.
Arriving at your destination with your cat
- The work doesn’t stop when you arrive at your destination, although by now you’re probably both ready for a bit of a rest! There are just a couple more things to think about, and then your holiday with your cat is ready to begin.
- On arrival, avoid rushing. Keep your cat in the carrier and hold it carefully – avoid swinging the carrier or banging it against objects or your legs.
- Just leave them in their carrier in a quiet place while you unpack, then secure the room and allow her out of the carrier to explore at her own place. Go with your cat if you can, moving between rooms until they’ve all been explored and your cat is comfortable.
- Make sure everyone in the family is aware which areas your cat is allowed to access, and that doors and windows to ‘no-go’ rooms are closed.
If you are leaving your cat at home
- Unlike dogs, your cat is probably quite content to stay at home with their familiar litter box, food bowl and cosy napping spots. For this reason, even though you will miss your cat you might consider leaving them with a pet sitter if you feel cat travelling may be too stressful for either of you.
Whether your cat is going on an adventure with you or staying safely at home, remember to do whatever’s best for your pet. Even if they do stay behind, imagine how wonderful it will be to come back from an exciting holiday – and be greeted by their loud purr and undivided attention!
If you are travelling to the KZN Midlands with your kitty- Midlands veterinary Hospital is a Gold Standard Cat Friendly Clinic (the first in RSA) and are able to assist with any queries or emergencies. 033 330 6184. 4 Curry’s Post Road, Howick.
