How to Travel With Your Cat Stress-Free: Car, Plane and Holiday Tips
Whether you're heading off on holiday or moving house, travelling with your cat doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With some planning, the right gear, and a few calming touches, you can make every trip easier on both you and your whiskered companion. In this guide, we share our expert tips on how to travel with your cat stress-free, so your feline friend stays calm and comfortable from car ride to cuddle time.
Choose The Right Cat Carrier
The foundation of any safe and happy journey with your cat is a sturdy, secure, and comfortable cat carrier. Look for well-ventilated designs with solid latches and enough room for your cat to turn around. A cosy blanket or piece of your clothing can help them feel more at ease inside. Soft-sided carriers can be great for short trips, while hard-sided options offer more protection for longer journeys or air travel.
It’s a good idea to let your cat explore their new carrier at home first, using treats and toys to make it a positive space. This helps reduce anxiety when it’s time to head out the door.
Prepare Your Cat Before The Journey
Familiarising your cat with travel routines can help turn a nervous traveller into a confident co-pilot. Start by placing their carrier in different rooms, then take them on short car rides around the neighbourhood. Gradually increase the duration to build their comfort.
If your cat tends to get anxious or carsick, you might want to consider natural calming aids, pheromone sprays, or even calming treats suggested by your vet. Always keep your cat's wellbeing at the forefront and consult with your vet if you’re concerned about their stress levels during travel.
Pack The Essentials
Just like us, cats have travel day must-haves. Here's what to bring:
- A familiar blanket or bedding to provide comfort and scent cues
- A compact travel food bowl and water container
- Your cat's usual food, ideally pre-measured by serving size
- Favourite toys or plush mice toys to keep them entertained
- A small litter tray or disposable tray for longer trips
Planning ahead means you won’t be caught out when your cat needs a comfort break or snack along the way.
Keep Your Cat Calm During The Trip
Even confident cats can get flustered during travel. Keep their carrier securely positioned in your car (ideally strapped in using a seatbelt), and avoid opening windows or turning up loud music. Speaking in calm, reassuring tones can help too.
To add extra zen to the journey, explore our range of calming essentials. From soothing chews to pheromone diffusers, we’ve curated options designed to support your cat’s emotional health.
Plan For Stops And Safety
If you’re going on a long road trip, schedule regular breaks to check on your cat. Avoid opening the carrier in unsecured spaces, as frightened cats can dash off quickly. If your cat is leash-trained, a secure cat harness and lead can give them a safe stretch outdoors.
Always keep ID tags up to date. A cat ID tag is a great backup in case of any unexpected surprises. For extra peace of mind, consider a GPS tracker so you’ll always know where your curious explorer is.
Settle In At Your Destination
When you arrive, give your cat time to explore their new environment calmly. Set up a dedicated space with familiar items like bedding, toys, and food, and let them come out at their own pace. Don’t rush introductions to new people or pets.
Support the transition with calming products when needed, and sprinkle in some treats or favourite snacks to reward their bravery. That first cautious paw forward is often the start of a confident adventure.
Our Final Purr-spective
Travelling with your cat doesn’t need to be a claw-ful experience. With the right carrier, tools, and a sprinkle of patience, you’ll both arrive at your destination ready to nap off the journey. At Petdirect, We Get Pet, which means we offer expert-approved products and travel-friendly essentials to help make every trip a success.
Explore our full pet travel collection to get started, and don’t forget to sign up for Pet Perks to unlock deals while you shop!