30/08/2021
🐈⬛ Important Tips for Traveling with Cats 🐈⬛
* Anytime you leave the house with your cat, it should be in a cozy carrier in the back seat of the car (away from airbags). Even if the cat seems unhappy about being confined, it is the only way to make sure your precious pet gets where you're going safely. As a bare minimum, your cat should wear a harness and short tether to prevent escape, but it will not offer them any protection in the event of a sudden stop or traffic accident.
* Make sure your cat is wearing a collar with a current ID tag even if your cat is microchipped, and make sure the information is always current in the microchip company’s database as well. (Register any brand chip for FREE, forever at https://www.foundanimals.org/microchip-registry)
* NEVER open the cat carrier while there is a car door, window, hatch or sunroof open. It’s a precaution you should follow religiously at all times when traveling with your cat. A startled or mischievous cat can slip out an open door in a split second only to find themselves in a strange place, in traffic, completely disoriented and UNABLE to find their way back to you.
* NEVER leave any pet unattended in a car that’s not climate controlled (running A/C or heat) and, even then, not for more than very brief periods. The car can reach lethal hot or cold temperatures in a matter of minutes.
* Carry a first aid kit for emergencies. It’s also an excellent idea to include some recent pictures of your cat from various angles that show any unique markings or any unique characteristics about her in the event--god forbid--that she gets away from you while traveling.
* Have clean-up supplies on hand, i.e. wet wipes, litter scoop and garbage bags in case the kitty has a potty accident or carsickness.
* Especially for longer trips, take a travel kit for your pet including appropriate paperwork such as proof of vaccinations. Your kit should also include food, bottled water, bowls, treats, a harness and leash, familiar bedding. and any supplements or medications your kitty is taking. Other good additions might be a comb, some toys and catnip.
* Take precautions to ensure your cat doesn't slip out a motel room door or other outside exit. Keep them in their carrier or in the bathroom when the exit door will be in use for room service, moving luggage, etc.
All of these steps and tips will take a little planning and discipline but it is FAR less effort than it takes to try to find your lost cat! Keep her safe!
