If you're taking your favorite feline with you on vacation, make sure you go by the book when you make your plans.
It's the rare cat who loves the thrill of the road. You can teach a cat that travel is a normal part of life and not something to fear, if you train your pet when she is a kitten. Since some road trips like a visit to the vet are inevitable, early travel training can come in handy. A travel-friendly cat is particularly essential if you plan to take your pet on any extended vacations.
Some cats will always find travel traumatic, especially if they are ill or physically impaired. It's probably best not to attempt traveling with such cats. Instead, when you're away, have a trusted friend or relative come into your home a couple of times a day to check on your cat. If that's not possible, hire a petsitting service or arrange to have your cat boarded in a clean, reputable kennel.
Before deciding to take your cat on a trip, ask yourself the following questions:
- What are the regulations and restrictions that apply in transit and at your destination?
- How will you transport your pet?
- What are your travel options?
- Where will your pet stay once you arrive?
- What can you do if your pet gets sick or hurt while you're traveling?
Legal Responsibilities
Cats, dogs and most other warm-blooded animals transported in commerce, including commercial transportation, are protected by the Animal Welfare Act (AWA). The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) enforces this law. If you plan to use commercial transportation such as an airline, you'll be required to conform to provisions specified by the USDA. While this helps ensure the safety of your pet, it also restricts your transportation options and the way you prepare your pet for travel. If you will be traveling outside the continental United States, quarantine regulations and restrictions will also apply. This includes travel to Hawaii.
Travel Essentials
The most important item for a traveling cat is a quality carrier. It should be as comfortable and sturdy as possible. Give as much consideration to choosing your cat's carrier as you would a child's car seat.
Consider the following:
- How will your cat be transported and what supplies does it need?
- How will you provide food and water?
- How can you provide litter box access?
When you're packing, include all vaccinations and other health certificates as required, and any prescribed medications and tranquilizers. Only bring medications if your veterinarian deems it necessary. Most travel-related deaths in animals are caused by a combination of medication and environmental factors, including excessively hot or cold temperatures.
Transportation Options
Traveling with your cat limits you to primarily transportation by air and car. The only animals allowed on passenger trains and interstate bus lines are service animals, such as seeing-eye dogs. Some local train and bus carriers may allow small animals in carriers or cages, but this varies between individual lines. If you must travel by train or bus, check to see if you need to make specific arrangements, such as transporting your pet via air cargo.
Accommodations
Pet-friendly hotels and motels throughout the United States and Canada are becoming more common. However, even if an establishment accepts pets, phone ahead for reservations and to discuss its conditions. Make sure you can comply with its pet regulations. Some motels set aside only a few rooms for travelers with pets, while others require pets to be housed in a separate kennel. In addition, research the other planned stops on your itinerary to make sure your cat will be welcome there.