travel with cat

How to Make Flying With a Cat Easier, According to Experts and Owners

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When I researched how to travel with a cat for the first time a few years ago, the logistics alone were almost enough to scare me off the option of flying entirely. Between parsing different pet-friendly policies and questioning whether furry lil’ Francis would hate me when we reached our destination, flying with a cat seemed like it would be way more trouble than it was worth.

But like many pet parents worrying about the best way to travel with a cat, I had my reasons for leaning toward air travel—namely, money and quality of life for both me and Francis—so I took the plunge. Luckily, with the right research and preparation, flying with a cat can be a viable and safe option for many. There are just a lot of things you have to consider first.

You don’t have to take just my word for it. Below, I’ve rounded up the best tips from other cat owners and pet experts to help you every step of the way, from deciding whether to fly in the first place to ensuring the journey is as low-stress as possible for both you and your favorite furball.

Figuring out if you can fly with your cat

There are several important details to consider when choosing whether to fly with your cat (or cats , plural), but before you dive into the nitty gritty, start with the basics: Is it even possible?

Thanks to varying policies across different airlines and destinations, the most precise answer I can offer without knowing your exact situation is, “it depends!” In many cases, yes, you’ll be able to find a cat-friendly route to your desired destination, especially if you’re traveling domestically within the US. However, there are a few factors that might make air travel a no-go from the get-go.

First things first: Some airlines have restrictions on the number, size, age, health, and breed of cats allowed both in the cabin and in the cargo hold, so be sure to read the policies of pet-friendly airlines carefully to understand your options.

After confirming that you can fly with your cat or cats on a particular airline, you’ll then have to make sure you can travel specifically to your destination and on the dates you want to travel. Certain airlines restrict the number of pets onboard at a time, which means you should book early to ensure there’s room for your pet on a specific flight. Meanwhile, if you’re flying internationally, you’ll run into various vaccination and microchipping requirements, as well as places where you can’t travel with a cat at all.

All that said, once you know that you can travel with your cat, there’s something else you’ll want to consider before booking your flight: whether you should .

Deciding whether to fly with a cat

“Flying with a cat can be a complex and stressful experience for both the pet and the owner,” says Keston Smith, DVM, medical director at BondVet’s location in Hell’s Kitchen in New York City. But sometimes it’s the best or only option. When weighing practical needs against other concerns, bear in mind that the flight itself is one part of a larger (potentially taxing) journey: Your cat will also have to get to the airport, go through security, and acclimate to an unfamiliar destination.

Furthermore, travel-related expenses can add up, like paying airline pet fees, buying TSA–approved supplies, checking additional bags to compensate for your carry-on cat, and more. It might all wind up being as pricey as a pet sitter might cost, or as expensive as renting a car and going on a road trip with your cat, or another option you’re considering anyway.

So how do you decide? Dr. Smith notes that young kittens, elderly cats, and cats with underlying health issues may not tolerate air travel well, and for most cats, short flights will be more manageable than long ones. The same goes for nonstop flights versus those with multiple legs.

Physical health and flight details aside, your cat’s personality could predict how chill (or unchill) they might be on the journey. “A cat’s temperament is crucial,” says Dr. Smith. “Cats that are easily stressed, nervous, or aggressive may not be suitable for air travel.”

At the end of the day, though, these are cats we’re talking about. It’s impossible to know for certain how even the chillest pile of fluff will react to plane travel until you try it. Beyond your vet’s recommendations and acute safety concerns, you’ll probably have to make a decision based on a mix of your circumstances, your knowledge of your cat, and your gut.

The good news: You’re more likely to be pleasantly surprised than met with total disaster, at least anecdotally speaking. “It definitely wasn’t as bad as I worried it would be the first time,” says cat owner Suz Warshell, who has traveled twice with her cat Lentil, both times internationally to Mexico.

Frequent feline flier Sahalie Martin echoes that sentiment, noting that she didn’t run into many of the issues she was prepared to deal with when she traveled with her kitty Molly, like security chaos or accidents in her crate. That said, both Martin and Warshell agree that preparing for things to go wrong still gives them peace of mind when traveling.

Preparing to fly with a cat

Make an appointment with your vet sooner rather than later, especially if you didn’t consult them before booking your flight. According to Dr. Smith, they’ll assess your cat’s individual health, temperament, and general fitness for air travel, as well as ensure that your cat’s vaccinations are up to date.

And if you think your cat is in good health, or the airline you chose doesn’t require that kind of documentation? Pay them a visit anyway. Your vet can help you prepare and provide guidance on how to travel safely , says Dr. Smith. Importantly, they’ll advise you on ways you can manage your cat’s anxiety, including milder-than-sedation options like prescription medication, over-the-counter supplements, or special treats.

After that, Dr. Smith recommends getting your cat nice and comfortable with their carrier since familiarity can reduce stress during travel. (He also suggests packing favorite items, such as a toy or blanket, in the carrier for the same reason.) So if you buy a new carrier or don’t use the one you own frequently, try to acclimate them to it leading up to your flight.

From personal experience, there’s no need to take them on unnecessary strolls around the block in their carrier. I simply left mine unzipped around the apartment the week leading up to the flight. My cat Francis quickly took to sleeping in it, and when the time came to load him up for the airport, it was noticeably easier than taking him to the vet in it a month prior.

But again, these are cats we’re dealing with, so your mileage will vary. No amount of training helped Martin’s cat Molly acclimate to her collar, for example, so Martin now tailors her pre-travel routine accordingly. “I just put it on [Molly] right before we go because I know she hates it,” she says. “No matter how much I have her wear it, she's gonna keep hating it.”

Stocking up to fly with a cat

Speaking of things your cat might hate, you’ll also need a few supplies before they can jet set with you. Most likely, they will be traveling in the cabin under the seat in front of you; few airlines allow cats to fly in the cargo, where they’re subject to more extreme temperatures, poor ventilation, and rough handling. This means you’ll need a pet carrier that fits the airline’s specifications for its size, shape, and material. You may also want to consider a harness, collar, or leash for added safety, since you’ll have to take your cat out of their carrier to go through security.

If you don’t already have one, there are a variety of TSA–approved carriers out there to choose from. For example, Martin likes this backpack-style carrier , which causes her less strain than one-shoulder options. Oh, and a tip from me: A durable carrier is worth the splurge. Trust me—if your anxious cat claws his way out of a cheap one and sprints free across the terminal, you’ll just have to buy a ridiculously overpriced replacement at the airport anyway. (True story.)

In terms of other supplies, Darnell Christopher, a New York City–based flight attendant with 10 years of experience, recommends coming prepared with what you need to be a courteous passenger. For instance, Martin and Warshell say it’s never a bad idea to stock up on sanitary items, like pee pads to line the carrier, which can simplify cleanup in the event of an accident. You might also pack sanitary wipes, a mini lint roller for excess hair, or extra foam earplugs to offer your neighbors just in case your kitty is noisier than expected.

Navigating the airport with a cat

Ahead of travel, don’t withhold food or water in an attempt to stave off unwelcome bowel or bladder movements on the plane. Ditto overfeeding to compensate for any meals they’d skip on the flight. Just feed and hydrate them as usual, says Dr. Smith. Other than that, leave yourself plenty of time before you board the plane. Give every cat-related step a generous buffer, just in case your cat decides to cat. For example, you probably don’t want to call your cab before your beast is safely in their carrier. And it might not be a great idea to unzip your cat at security before dealing with your inanimate belongings.

On that note, here’s how the process at airport security is traditionally supposed to go down: You’ll be asked to take your cat out of the carrier, send the empty carrier through the X-ray, carry your cat through the metal detector, and then put them back in on the other side.

But before you do any of that, do yourself a favor and ask a TSA officer for a private screening room instead. It’s not always advertised as an option, but one is likely available. Believe me, it is much easier to wrangle a struggling, scared kitty in and out of a carrier when you’re not holding up a line of frustrated travelers and worried about your furry companion getting loose in the airport. Plus, it allows you to take a second to offer your cat some comforting pets.

Actually flying with a cat

Good news, it’s the home stretch! The journey leading up to the flight is often more nerve-wracking than the flight itself, so you’re mostly in the clear from here. Once you board, Martin recommends giving your seatmates a heads-up that you have a cat, since many people won’t notice right away. “I always like to say, ‘By the way, I have a cat here under the seat. Let me know if that’s an issue,’” she says.

If there is an issue—like sitting next to someone who’s allergic to cats—Christopher recommends flagging down a flight attendant; he says it’s all part of the job. So if you’re worried about causing trouble on the plane by traveling with your fur baby, don’t sweat it. It’s not unusual for flight attendants to move passengers around or request passengers swap seats as needed. Same goes for them helping you in the event your cat has an accident. “These things happen,” Christopher says. “It’s just about communicating so we can utilize the tools that we have.”

During the flight itself, Dr. Smith suggests monitoring your cat throughout. (One of the reasons Warshell likes her carrier: It opens from both the top and the sides. “It’s nice because I can open it a tiny bit and slip my hand in when I’m on the plane to pet my cat from above,” she explains.) You’ll want to ensure the carrier stays well-ventilated and secure, and keep an eye out for signs of distress or overheating, such as excessive panting, vocalization, or lethargy. If you do see these signs, alert a flight attendant and ask if it’s possible to move your pet to an area with better airflow and lower temperature within the cabin, recommends Dr. Smith. You can also offer your cat a small amount of water.

Last but not least, once you reach your destination and arrive at your new or temporary home, get your kitty’s necessities set up and give them time to adjust to the new environment. “Be patient and provide a quiet, safe space for them to explore at their own pace,” says Dr. Smith.

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Traveling With Cats [Your Ultimate Guide & 36 Game-Changing Tips]

Ever wondered about jet-setting with your beloved pet cat but didn't quite know how to go about it? Well, your worry ends here. We've tapped into the expertise of Sally Smith, the revered Founder and President of Companion Pet Enterprises. Together we have created a detailed guide for traveling with cats. We also bring you 36 invaluable tips shared by our community members over the years.

We'll cover topics like prepping your precious cat for car or plane travel and understanding the paperwork and health checks required for interstate or international travel. We will also provide practical tips on acclimating your cat to the carrier and making the journey comfortable.

But that's not it. We dive deeper into what professional pet transporters bring to the table, especially for more complex moves. Get insights into their licensing, security programs, and the whole gamut of services they provide.

Keep reading and uncover the wealth of information tucked away in this guide. Your cat's travel worries will soon be a thing of the past!

Traveling With Your Cat: Car Or Plane?

There are only two ways to move pets, by car or by plane. For interstate travel or travel to a neighboring country like Canada, your cat should first be examined by a veterinarian and have a health certificate issued prior to travel.

At border crossings, you may be asked if you have a certificate. If you are unable to produce one, they will hold you up a bit, while you answer all the questions as to why you were not prepared.

Traveling cross-country by vehicle requires quite a bit of time versus air travel. Some additional requirements for longer trips need to be considered:

Let Fluffy get acclimated and friendly with the cat carrier. Leave it open with bedding in it, in the room she is most comfortable in. Once the initial apprehension dissipates, kitty curiosity can take over.

If it looks inviting, is safe (meaning the door is propped open), and has treats inside, Fluffy should investigate it in her own time. If she does not, put her inside for a few minutes, then let her out.

Short interludes where nothing happens will help alleviate the fear of the carrier. Don't force her inside. If she shows any reluctance, stand the carrier on end with the door open and scruff Fluffy gently and lower her inside.

Close the door quickly behind her; gently lower the carrier to a normal position keeping her inside for just a few moments, then release her.

In order to prevent escape or accidents on the road, cats should always be transported in a carrier. To keep her calmer, if you are only going a short distance, you can alleviate some of the stress (if it is not a really hot day) and cover the carrier with a dark cloth.

How To Survive Long-Distance Travel With Cats

But for longer trips here are some easy tips to follow:

Planned Rest Stops

Stopping not only gives the driver a break, but also offers you the opportunity to check on your cat, and offer her the use of a litter box and a drink.

Before you open up the carrier, be sure all doors and windows in the car are closed. Let Fluffy out of the carrier, with the litter box on the seat or floor near the carrier, but don't be surprised if she won't use it.

Let her walk around a little bit before returning her to the carrier, but don't let her get underneath your seat where she will be hard to reach.

Time Your Trips

Plan to travel no longer than 7 or 8 hours (most cats can wait to relieve themselves for that period of time) and the box can be then offered in the safety of a hotel room. If your cat is prone to motion sickness, don't offer her any food while she is in motion.

Find Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Schedule your trip around hotels that accept pets. Call ahead of time to find out if the hotel or motel is pet-friendly. Several books and Internet sites serve as guides for pet-loving accommodations.

Have An Escape Plan: Keep identification tags on your pet. In the event of an escape, the person finding the cat will know whom to contact. Consider leaving a temporary tag with your cell phone number on it, just in case. Also, microchip your pet. Microchips provide universal protection.

Offer A Comfort Zone

If your cat dislikes auto travel of any length or tends to become car sick, speak with your veterinarian about using Dramamine or a similar product to control nausea. A product like Benadryl can make the cat sleepy without the dangers of tranquilization; however, do not use these products without your vet's recommendation.

Short & Sweet

Prior to the trip, take short trips with your kitty in the carrier around the block or to a local store. Plan to return home before the anxiety or motion sickness starts.

Travel By Air

Don't be surprised if you encounter difficulty booking your cat's travel. The Federal Aviation Administration has made security changes since the terrorist attacks that affect how pets are shipped.

Professional pet transporters have the necessary licenses to move pets with the airlines, but only a few airlines will currently still deal directly with the public. Depending on the airline, one or two cats may be allowed in the cabin as a carry-on or can be booked as excess baggage with you on the same flight in the cargo area of the plane.

Many people worry about the safety of their pets during air travel. According to airline estimates, nearly two million pets a year are shipped.

Each year there will be one or two well-publicized accidents to cause concern, but actual airline statistics report less than 30 animal injuries or deaths per year. Most accidents happen due to poor planning, improper crates, tranquilization, or human error. Sometimes things are truly an accident with no one to blame (unless the pet itself is to blame!).

Whether you have help from a professional or do it yourself, certain requirements for air travel need to be met.

Follow The Rules

An airline-approved shipping crate is required. For travel in the cabin, a soft-sided carrier may be used. But for travel as cargo or in the baggage area, the crate must be plastic with a metal door. It should be big enough for the cat to sit up, turn around and lie down.

The less expensive carriers are not the safest. The higher-priced crates are made of sturdier fiberglass, rather than plastic, and have stronger doors that will not fly open.

Each crate must be labeled with live animal stickers, consignee information, feeding instructions, and two dishes attached to the door. These are federal regulations that must be met.

Provide Timely Proof

Every cat needs a health certificate and proof of rabies vaccine. The Animal Welfare Act says the health certificate must be dated no more than 10 days prior to the trip. If it expires a new one will be required.

Say No To Drugs

The American Veterinary Medical Association and the Independent Pet and Animal Transportation Association do not recommend tranquilizing your cat for flying. It is now widely recognized that tranquilizers are the number one cause of illness and death in pets shipped by air.

Several airlines will now also refuse to accept a tranquilized pet. Better to have a pet soil the crate, but arrive safe and sound.

Travel by air is stressful no doubt, but healthy pets survive a few hours of travel quite nicely. Pad the bottom of the carrier with plastic diapers (padding turned up) to help absorb any accidents that might occur.

Weather Restrictions: Understanding Potential Delays

Excessive heat and cold can prohibit pet shipments. Each airline can put an embargo in place to prevent moving a pet when it is less than 45 degrees, or more than 85 degrees at either end or at any stop along the way if they will be exposed to these temperatures for more than 45 minutes.

Professional pet transporters and airlines must abide by these federal regulations. Therefore, even if you have your cat booked to go with you as excess baggage, temperatures may prohibit it from traveling on that day. This is for the health and safety of your pet.

Planning And Alleviating Travel Stress

Planning and common sense can alleviate most of the problems encountered when traveling with your cat. Fluffy may never love traveling, but you can help make it easier. For more complex moves the use of a professional pet transporter for air travel is not the least expensive alternative but maybe the best choice when moving the cat yourself becomes overwhelming.

The Benefits Of Professional Pet Shippers

Professional pet shippers are licensed by the USDA for interstate travel and have a TSA-approved security program. They will handle all the documents for arrangements with the airline and meet the FAA/TSA requirements.

Comprehensive Assistance: Before And After The Journey

If you must travel to the destination before you can send for your pet, oftentimes pet transporters can assist you with obtaining health certificates, veterinary requirements, or boarding.

They will be able to provide shipping crates as well as pick-up and delivery services from home to the airport.

A network of transport specialists may also even allow for a transporter to meet Fluffy upon arrival and deliver her to your new home. Most, but not all, transporters can assist with international relocations.

Navigating International Travel: Dealing With Unique Country Requirements

Each country has its own requirements for pets entering the country. In some instances, only a health certificate is required along with proof of a rabies vaccine. In other countries, it may be a long involved process requiring months of planning and or quarantine once Fluffy arrives.

These transporters are always knowledgeable about these rules and restrictions, after all, that is how they make their living.

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Keep Reading For Our 36 Actionable Tips Below!

Written by Sally Smith

Sally Smith is the Founder and the President of Companion Pet Enterprises, a pet transportation company and company dedicated to advising and helping others in how to move their pets both domestically and internationally. Smith is diversified in skills throughout the pet industry.

Working as a vet tech, animal groomer, and designing a pet care facility that offered all services in one fell swoop including pet transportation, she became the Director there for over 12 years. Her diversified background has allowed her to hold several positions among them serving on the boards for the New Jersey Veterinary Technicians and Assistants, the Independent Pet and Animal Transportation Assoc. and the American Boarding Kennels Association.

Her current clients consist of Microsoft, Johnson & Johnson, and Continental among others. She shares her experiences willingly and wrote this article in an effort to help all involved- the cat, the cat owner, and the transportation companies.

36 Actionable Tips By Our Members

Most cats are not good travelers. They like having their familiar established territory and couldn't care less about seeing the wonders of the Great Beyond. You're not very likely to ever come across a cat sticking its head out the window with its ears flapping in the wind...

But sometimes long-distance traveling with cats is inevitable. If a 20-minute car journey to the vet is a loud vocal nightmare, the prospect of spending long hours on the road with cats in the car can be absolutely terrifying.

Don't lose hope though. People do take their cats on long car trips and you can too.

Here's a collection of thirty-six tips, provided by TCS (TheCatSite.com) members over the years, that will help make road-tripping with cats safer and less stressful.

Expert Tips And Wisdom For Road Trips With Your Furry Friends

On calming composure: tip #1.

Embody tranquility. Remember, cats are astute in sensing human stress. Avoid displaying signs of distress, like raised voices, to ensure their comfort.

The Journey Adjustment: Tip #2

Patience pays. Your cat may need an hour or so to relax in the new environment. A little howling during shorter trips doesn't necessarily translate into a whole day's worth of commotion.

Familiarity and Routine: Tip #3

Habituation helps. Gradually introducing travel routines to kittens or young cats can ease them into long journeys. However, with older cats, avoid adding unnecessary stress with new training.

Securing The Path: Safety Measures For Road Trips With Cats

The carrier rule: tip #4.

Have your cats in a large carrier or dog crate during the entire duration of the drive. Having a cat loose in the car is dangerous to both cats and humans. Road safety first ! The driver should not have to deal with a cat squirming between the pedals or blocking the view of the windshield.

Harness And Leash: Tip #5

Cats should always wear a harness while in the car. Whenever they are removed from their crate or carrier, a leash needs to be securely clipped onto the harness. Train your cats to wear a harness in advance .

Window And Door Safety: Tip #6

Preventive measures are key. Keep cats securely harnessed and leashed before opening any doors or windows.

Rest Stop Routines: Tip #7

Cautious pit stops. Avoid letting cats out during stops unless they are well-trained to walk securely on a harness and leash.

Identity Protection: Tip #8

Have your cats properly ID'd. Their harness should have a name tag with your current mobile phone number on it. Microchipping your cat is also a good idea.

Medication Consultation: Tip #9

Prescription principles. Before medicating your cat for the trip, ensure you consult with your vet. Certain over-the-counter calming agents may not be cat-friendly.

Trial Runs For Medication: Tip #10

Homeward testing. In case of medicating as per vet advice, first, try it at home to check for any adverse reactions.

Ventilation And Temperature Control: Tip #11

Comfort in climate. Ensure your cats are placed in a well-ventilated area of the car, not exposed to strong winds or extreme temperatures.

Unattended Warning: Tip #12

Attention required. Never leave your cats unattended in the car, especially on days of extreme temperatures.

Crafting Comfort: Setting Up A Homely Environment For Cats

Crate comfort: tip #13.

Give your cats room to stretch and move around. Opt for very large carriers, and preferably dog crates.

Car Play: Tip #14

If possible, cage a section of your vehicle and make that into the kitty playpen. Just make absolutely sure no doors or windows in that area can be opened by mistake.

Multiple Cats: Tip #15

If you use large dog crates, you can place more than one cat in each crate, provided the cats get along well with each other.

Vertical Space: Tip #16

Make the most of the vertical dimension of the crate by hanging a cat shelf inside it.

Privacy: Tip #17

Drape a sheet over the cage or crate, leaving one side open. This will make the cats feel more secure, as well as protect them from direct sunlight coming through the car windows.

Accident Prevention: Tip #18

Line the crate with pee pads, in case you have any accidents. Carry extras with you.

Familiar Scents: Tip #19

Place familiar blankets and cushions in the crate.

Cozy Comforts: Tip #20

Place a worn tee shirt of yours in the crate for the cats to have your scent around them.

Calming Scents: Tip #21

Consider using Feliway  - spray the crates or use a diffuser in the car.

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Cat Toys: Tip #22

Take a few cat toys and rotate along the way. This is especially effective with kittens. Don't be offended if your cat avoids playing.

Road Tripping With Cats: Food, Drink, and Litterboxes

Cat entertainment: tip #22.

Many cats do not eat, drink, or poop while on the road. Don't be alarmed by this, and just patiently wait for your final stop at the hotel.

Disposable Litter Box: Tip #24

Keep a small disposable litter pan in the crate. You can use aluminum baking pans and bring along a supply that will last for the duration of the trip.

Handling Accidents: Tip #25

Have wipes and strong plastic bags handy at all times, to handle litter box accidents.

Water Bowl: Tip #26

If you keep a water bowl in the crate, make sure it's deep and put very little water in it. You want to avoid spillage as the car turns and sways.

Alternatives For Water: Tip #27

Consider training your cats to use rabbit water bottles prior to the trip. You can do that by using chicken broth (no onions or garlic in it!) and some water in the bottle or rubbing their favorite moist cat food near the tip of the bottle. If they learn how to drink from that, it's a great way to make water available without risking wetting the bottom of the crate.

Food & Water Timing: Tip #28

If you prefer, you can limit water and food and provide them only during breaks, once every 4-5 hours.

Car Sick Cat: Tip #29

If your cat tends to get car sick, it's best to avoid feeding 2-3 hours prior to travel. You can feed them at night at the hotel. Many cats don't eat and drink during car trips anyway.

Foods: Tip #30

Only provide food your cats are familiar with and tolerate well. This almost goes without saying, but don't try new treats or pamper them with expensive foods that they'd never tried before.

Beyond The Drive: Extra Tips For Road Trips With Cats

Planning accommodation: tip #31.

If your trip is more than a day long, plan ahead for accommodation. Many motels and hotels are pet-friendly, though some ask for extra fees. Most Super 8's and all Motel 6's are pet-friendly. Call in advance to make sure they have room for you and your kitties.

Travel Documentation: Tip #32

Have vet paperwork handy for crossing state lines or borders between countries. Papers are rarely needed for crossing state borders, but at the very least, have proof of your cat being current on her rabies shots.

Handling Cat Communication: Tip #33

Don't let the meowing get to you. Most cats meow like crazy when they get on the road. Most also settle down after an hour at the most and go to sleep. You need to focus on safe driving and ignore the cries.

Driving Sensitivity: Tip #34

Keep your driving relaxed. Don't overtake unless absolutely necessary and take it easy when pulling out. Remember that cats are sensitive to acceleration, deceleration, and sideways motions. Changes in altitude may also affect your cats.

Traveling With Company: Tip #35

If possible, travel with a passenger that can help you take care of the cats.

Safety Awareness: Tip #36

Make sure any travelers are fully aware of safety issues and know not to open any doors or windows unless all cats are properly secured.

Wrapping Up: Journeying With Your Beloved Feline Companions

Navigating the open road with your treasured feline friends doesn't need to be a daunting task. This comprehensive guide has empowered you with the essential tools and knowledge for a smooth and stress-free journey.

Armed with these actionable insights, you're ready for your road trip, ensuring an enjoyable and memorable journey for you and your feline companion. May every mile be a stride toward making precious memories, and may the road always lead you both safely home. Happy travels!

Comments? Leave them using the comment section below. Questions? Please use the cat forums for those!

Note: We may get commissions for purchases made through links on this page.

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• Vet Approved

How to Travel With a Cat in a Car: 11 Tips & Tricks

Image Credit: Lightspruch, Shutterstock

Last Updated on September 6, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

VET APPROVED

REVIEWED & FACT-CHECKED BY

Dr. Maxbetter Vizelberg DVM

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

As much as we love our cats, the idea of traveling with them in a car on a long-distance trip can be daunting and just a little bit terrifying as well. If your cat is anything like most cats, they might spend the entire trip howling, screeching, and letting everyone know that they are terrified.

It’s important to realize that cats will remember being kittens and being taken to the vet for shots or even just the car ride to their new home. So, they’ll be expecting the same experience again when you load them into the car.

In this list, we’ll give you a few tips and tricks to make the trip in the car easier and more pleasant for you and your feline friend.

• The 11 Tips & Tricks for Car Travel with a Cat
• 1. Always Use a Cat Carrier

Never take your cat anywhere in the car without using a cat carrier . Not only is it dangerous, but in some states, it’s also illegal to let your pet roam freely in the car as you drive.

You want to make sure that the cat carrier is as comfortable as possible for your feline companion. This means that the carrier should be big enough for the cat to stand up, turn around, and lie down with ease.

Ensure that the carrier you use is well-ventilated so that the cat can breathe easily.

• 2. Let Your Cat Explore the Carrier

If your cat is used to roaming freely and has never used a carrier before, then he’s going to be anxious and terrified for most of your trip. Instead of just forcing your cat into the carrier and hitting the road the day of the trip, give your cat the time to explore the carrier in his own time.

Remember, many cats love boxes! So leave the door to the carrier open, throw in your cat’s treats and favorite toys, and then let your cat explore the carrier at will. Hopefully, they’ll get used to the carrier and have no problem entering it and laying down when traveling time arrives.

• 3. Beat the Heat

Just like you get hot when the sun beams directly into the car, so does your cat. So make sure to put the carrier in a well-ventilated area that benefits from the air conditioning you’re sure to have going if you’re traveling in the summer heat. Avoid areas of the car that will get direct sunlight or the cargo area of the car where air doesn’t circulate.

Never, leave your cat in the car alone when you stop somewhere. When you stop and turn off your engine, take the cat and carrier with you. If your cat tolerates a leash and a harness, you can do it that way, but never leave your cat in the car. It’s also not a good idea to leave the engine running. That’s inviting car thieves to take the car, meaning you’ll not only lose your car but your feline friend as well.

It’s essential to note that most states have made it illegal to leave your animal in the car. If you’re caught, you can face a fine, imprisonment, or both for cruelty to animals.

• Read Also:  Why Is My Cat Panting in the Car? (5 Possible Reasons)
• 4. Gather Your Supplies/Check Your Supply List

About a week before you’re supposed to head out on your trip, gather any supplies that you need for your cat along the way. If you’re unsure what those supplies might be, we’ll give you a few suggestions below.

• Fresh water, preferably bottled or from home
• Food and treats
• Clean cat litter
• Pet medications
• Pet first-aid kit
• Extra tag and collar
• Extra harness and leash
• Blankets and towels to replace anything soiled
• Pictures of your cat
• Vet records for the cat
• An extra carrier just in case
• Poop bags and poop scooper

Once you’ve gathered all these items, go through your pet supply checklist and check them off one at a time. You don’t want to need these supplies and have to find a place to buy them when you’re on the road.

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• 5. Consider Microchipping Your Cat

The last thing you want is to stop at the local diner, and your cat disappears, never to be seen again. While you might think you can keep a sharp eye on your cat, accidents happen, so it’s best to be prepared.

If you haven’t already, you might consider microchipping your cat before the trip. Other precautions to take include having the pictures of your cat suggested above, making sure your cat has your name, address, and telephone number on their tag and collar, and making sure the same is on his crate, along with “Live Animal” written on the side of the crate.

Doing all of these will make it easier to track down your cat should the worst happen during your trip.

• 6. Check-Out Accommodations Ahead of Time

As a pet parent, you probably already know that not every hotel, motel, bed and breakfast, or vacation rental is going to be pet-friendly. Nothing is worse than pulling into a hotel on the road, only to find you can’t find a room that will allow you to have your cat inside. But, of course, you can’t leave the cat in the car, so what can you do?

The answer is to find pet-friendly hotels along the route you’re taking to your destination long before you head out on the road. Then, call ahead to check the pet policies of the accommodations you know accept pets, as some only allow certain pets, have a pet deposit, and have a limit on how many pets you can bring.

Once you’re in your room, it’s best to set up the litter box in the bathroom where there is no carpet, just in case an accident happens, so that you won’t be charged for carpet cleaning when you check out.

• 7. Expect the Unexpected

If you’ve traveled with or without pets, then you already know you should always expect the unexpected. You never know when something will happen, and you’ll have to fly back home instead of driving the car. So you need to be prepared to travel by plane with your cat if the worst should happen.

If you have a favorite airline, then call and see what their pet policy is before you leave on your trip, just to be on the safe side.

• 8. Always Secure the Carrier

Just as you never know when you will have to fly home for an emergency, you also never know what could happen on the road. You may have to stop suddenly, slam on the brakes, and send your carrier and cat flying, ending with the cat being injured.

So, once you have the carrier in good working order, put everything your cat needs to be comfortable inside and make sure to secure the carrier firmly with a working seatbelt. This will prevent the carrier from sliding and your cat from getting hurt.

• 9. Schedule a Few Practice Runs

Once your cat is used to the cat carrier and feels comfortable lying down inside, you can schedule a few practice runs for the cat to get the feel of the moving car. Start with short trips, such as driving around the block or backing out of the driveway and then pulling back in. Then, keep an eye on how your cat reacts, and if he reacts badly, stop the car and try again another day.

Doing this also shows the cat that every car ride doesn’t end at the vet, which will help when you’re on the road. If you can’t schedule practice runs before your actual trip, try to keep your cat calm by staying calm yourself. Remember, our pets pick up on our stress levels and react in kind.

• 10. Talk to Your Vet Beforehand

It’s always a good idea to schedule an appointment with your vet for a checkup before going on a car trip, just to ensure everything is okay with your pet.

If your cat suffers from anxiety, this is the time to talk to your vet about medications that will keep him calm. Though none of us want to sedate our pets , it’s better to go this route than to have an anxious cat that’s injured when trying to get out of the carrier going down the road.

• 11. Use Patience, Kindness, and Love

Even with all the tips above, you need to use patience, kindness and love to keep your little feline friend calm and happy during a car ride.

If you get upset, yell, or seem mad at your cat, then the cat is going to respond in kind, which means you’re in for a long trip with an angry cat.

When you travel in a car with a cat , you can expect to make a few adjustments to keep your pet safe and relaxed. Hopefully, these tips will make your next car ride with your cat a roaring success, or at least a little more bearable for the two of you and any family that is tagging along.

Related Reads:

• Traveling With Kittens: 7 Essential Tips
• Does Lyft Allow Cats? Pet Policy & Travel Tips
• The Spruce Pets

Featured Image Credit: Lightspruch, Shutterstock

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About the Author

Patricia Dickson

Patricia is a pet writer and lifelong animal lover. She has two cats (Binx and Link) and one dog (Mystery). Binx was found as a kitten under her house and has been part of the family ever since! Patricia is also a published author under the pen name Skylar McKinzie. When she isn’t writing, Patricia enjoys volunteering at her local animal rescue.

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