Transporting Your Cat For A Long Distance In Your Vehicle
If you are moving to a new home far from where you live presently and you plan to transport your cat in your vehicle, you will want to take precautionary steps to ensure their safety while in transit. Moving with a cat is not difficult if you prepare ahead. Here are some tips to use when making a move with your feline.
Create The Right Environment
Having a cat cage to house your cat while in transit is best. Even if your cat is used to riding along freely in a vehicle, you should still have a cage for times when someone is not able to watch the cat while the vehicle is moving. You can use a cat carrier instead, but your cat will not be able to move around as freely, making it difficult if your trip will take more than a few hours. A cage will have enough room for a blanket, and most cages have litter trays at the bottom that you can remove to clean after the trip. Make sure to bring a few dishes, some bottled water, and cat food and treats for the ride.
Practice A Bit In Advance
Have your cat spend some time inside the cage in the comfort of your home a few times a day for several weeks before you move. Place your cat inside after it has had a full meal so it may take a nap on a blanket you place inside. Consider taking a few test runs by putting your cat inside the cage and riding around town in your vehicle. These sessions will make the longer ride a little more tolerable as the cat will not be going inside a cage or a car for the first time.
Get A Clean Bill Of Health
Bring your cat to a veterinarian or animal hospital before you make your move. Have them give your cat a complete examination and make sure all their immunizations are up to date. If you fear your cat will be anxious during the trip, the doctor can prescribe medication that will help them tolerate the ride. It is a good idea to have this medication on hand if you find out your cat has a great deal of trouble with the ride after you have already started your journey.
Keep Your Cat Safe
Keep your cat's cage or carrier on the floor of the vehicle instead of on top of a seat. This way, the cage will not roll or tumble to the floor if you brake suddenly. Do not put anything on the seat behind the cage other than blankets or other soft items for the same reason. When you get out of your vehicle, make sure the windows are open so your pet does not overheat. It is best to have someone available to be with your pet in the vehicle at all times if possible. Check the latch on the cage before opening your door as well.
If you want to learn more about keeping your cat safe on a long drive, you can discover more here.