Cats prefer to stay in their familiar surroundings, so car rides are often stressful. Yet sometimes it's necessary: to the vet, on vacation or to a sleepover. In this guide, you'll read practical tips for transporting your cat safely and as relaxed as possible-and when staying home with a cat sitter makes more sense.
Cats and travel
Cats are territorial animals that Are very attached to their own environment. Leaving that safe place can cause tension: unfamiliar sounds, movement and new smells. Therefore, a good preparation important and helps put your cat at ease as much as possible.
Travel is stressful for most cats, whether by car or by plane is. In either case, make sure you have a safe carrycot and consider calming pheromones as support.
Safety first
Transporting a cat loose in the car is dangerous and can lead to panic, with risks for both you and your cat. Always use a sturdy, lockable carry basket with adequate ventilation. Choose a size in which your cat can turn around, but not so large that it will slide while driving.
Getting your cat used to the car
Let your cat get used to it incrementally. This helps reduce stress before the real ride:
- 🐾 Make short practice rides To get used to the feeling of driving.
- 🐾 Put the carry basket a few days in advance open in house, so your cat explores it willingly.
- 🐾 Leg candies or toys in the basket for positive associations.
Calming your cat during the car ride
With these measures, you reduce incentives and tension along the way:
- 🐾 Cover the carrier partially with a cloth against visual stimuli.
- 🐾 Put gentle music on or use pheromones (such as Feliway). Consult your veterinarian before administering anything.
- 🐾 On long trips, make short stopovers, but let your cat never loose in the car.
Alternative: a pet sitter through Petbnb
Is a vacation coming up and you'd rather avoid a long car ride with your cat? Then consider giving your cat leaving at home With a reliable babysitter. Petbnb helps you easily create a pet sitting for your cat find. Even a last-minute pet sitter is possible.
For many cats, it really feels like a vacation for your pet: no busy daycare, but just at home with personal attention and customized care. So your vacation will also be a cat vacation.
Ready to relax?
Find a reliable cat sitter near you via Petbnb and travel with peace of mind.
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