long distance travel for cats

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How to Drive Long Distance With a Cat

Last Updated: May 7, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS . Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 100% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 91,012 times.

Cats like routine, and so traveling with one can cause stress. If you have to move or want to take a long car journey with your cat, you may be concerned about its comfort and safety. By gathering the right supplies and preparing your cat beforehand, you can make the trip as pleasant as possible.

Preparing for Travel with Your Cat

• You can also discuss with your vet whether or not feline sedatives are a good idea while traveling with your cat. [1] X Research source These can calm some felines, but your cat may react badly to the medicines, or it may wear off during the trip. Never give your cat a sedative designed for humans.

• Well-ventilated
• Large enough for your cat to sit, stand, turn around, and lay down in
• Made of a sturdy material, whether soft (cloth or mesh) or hard (plastic or wire)

• Favorite toys, pillows, blankets, etc.
• Food and water
• A litterbox and litter
• A waste scoop and/or plastic bags
• Brushes, combs, and other grooming supplies
• Any medications your cat takes
• A pet first-aid kit (ask your veterinarian about getting one)
• Travel papers (showing vaccinations, health records, etc.), if needed in your destination

• If you wish, you can also have an identifying microchip placed in your cat. [5] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source

• If you and your veterinarian have decided to give your cat sedatives, make sure to give it a dose prior to your trip, according to instructions.
• For trips under 2 hours, you won’t need to feed your cat on the road. Otherwise, feed it every 2 to 3 hours. Your cat may not want to eat or drink while traveling.
• Don’t feed your cat while moving in your vehicle, as there are risks that it could choke, become sick, or get loose in the vehicle. If you need to feed your cat en route, stop first.

Traveling with Your Cat

• Letting your cat loose in the car while traveling is not safe. If your cat is not safely in its carrier, it may crawl to a dangerous place (such as under your feet), or it may become even more stressed.
• Only let your cat out of its carrier when you are safely at your destination or a stopping point.

• The safest place to keep your cat’s carrier is in the backseat.
• Don’t leave a car window window down while traveling with your cat. It might try to escape, the noise might bother it, or the wind might make it cold.

• A product that mimics this feline facial pheromone is called Feliway. You can spray it in your car to make your cat feel more comfortable.

• Zylkene is available without prescription and comes in 75 mg capsules. The dose for a cat is a 75 mg capsule once a day, given with or after food. It can take a couple of days to take effect, but if there is no noticeable difference after 7 days, it is unlikely to help your cat.

• Buprenorphine, gabapentin and alprazolam are examples of medications that have recently begun to be used to reduce the anxiety associated with car travel or veterinary visits. If one of these medications is appropriate for your cat’s situation, your veterinarian will prescribe it. [9] X Research source
• Be sure to ask your veterinarian about the potential side effects in order to properly weigh the pros and cons.

Expert Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://indoorpet.osu.edu/cats/felinelifestressors/traveling-your-cat
• ↑ http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/car-travel-tips
• ↑ http://www.cathealth.com/inappropriate-behavior/cats-and-stress
• ↑ https://www.wikihow.com/Reduce-Stress-in-Cats
• ↑ http://www.vcahospitals.com/main/pet-health-information/article/animal-health/medication-to-reduce-the-stress-of-veterinary-visits-for-cats/10567

About This Article

To drive long distance with your cat, first get a sturdy carrier that's big enough for your cat to sit, stand, and turn around in, and leave it out in your home for a few days so your cat gets used to it. You can also take your cat on a few short trips in the carrier before your long drive. When it's time for your long-distance drive, put a collar on your cat with a tag containing your contact information in case it escapes. You should also pack toys, blankets, food, water, a litter box, and litter. For more tips from our Veterinary co-author, like how to keep your cat calm during your trip, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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11 Proven Tips for Taking a Cat on a Road Trip

Published by sarah vaughan on june 7, 2021 june 7, 2021.

In March of 2021, we set off on a cross-country road trip from Virginia to California, taking our beloved cat, Fitzgerald, along with us! During that time, we’ve driven over 7,000 miles and spent more than 120 hours in the car with our furry friend. While taking a cat on a long distance road trip has its challenges, it’s absolutely doable! In this article, we’ve compiled everything we’ve learned from many hours spent in the car with Fitzgerald. We hope these tips will give you the confidence you need to hit the road with your feline companion!

Two Outliers may contain affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Our Story: Taking a Cross Country Road Trip with our Cat!

If you know me (Sarah), you likely know that I am a total sucker for animals – cats, dogs, horses – I love them all. When I’m not traveling, I spend my spare time fostering kittens for the SPCA. In fact, many of the pictures you’ll see in the post are of my foster kittens. And if you know the two of us, you know that our cat, Fitzgerald (aka Fitz, Fitzy, Ger, Ger Bear…), is our pride and joy.

And so, when the global pandemic hit and we found ourselves working remotely and contemplating a long-term cross-country road trip, there was never a question that we were taking Fitzgerald with us.

From Virginia to California

In March of 2021, we got rid of most our belongings, packed up what was left, subleased our apartment in Virginia and hit the road: California bound! We drove from Virginia to St. Louis in one day, then to Denver the next.

After spending one week in Denver to break up the road trip, we continued to Southern California. Over the span of that first week, we drove 2,653 miles and spent over 40 hours on the road, all with our cat!

P.S: You can read more about us here and keep up with our road trip adventures here .

A long-term road trip

Since driving across the country the first time, we’ve decided to make life on the road our permanent lifestyle and haven’t settled down yet.

Needless to say, Fitzgerald has gotten pretty used to long car rides and changing homes, and we have learned a ton about how to make him most comfortable and stress-free in the car. All in all, he’s traveled more than 4,400 miles and spent around 68 hours in the car with us!

In this article, we’ve outlined 11 tips that we use to ensure taking our cat on long distance road trips are stress-free every time ! We hope you’ll find our tips helpful for road tripping with your cat too!

Tip | About to head off on a long road trip? Check out this list of our favorite songs about travel and adventure and refresh your playlist before you hit the road!

You may also like

72 Best Songs about Travel and Adventure

11 tips for a taking a cat on a road trip.

Without further ado, here are the 11 tips we’ve learned from long distance travel with a cat in the car long-distance road tripping with Fitzgerald.

We hope these insights will help keep you and your feline companion stress free on the road!

• Try to stop as little as possible
• Get your cat a collar with tag for traveling
• Bring a familiar comfort item from home
• If possible, make one long trip rather than several shorter trips
• Create a “safe space” in the car for your cat to retreat to
• If your cat is especially nervous, try feline anxiety medication
• Try letting your cat roam free, but always pack a cat carrier just in case
• If you must crate your cat, leave the carrier out several days before your trip
• Pack your cat’s litter box, filled with clean litter
• Take away your cats food the night before the trip
• Set up a small, quiet place for your cat to rest at your final destination

Please note that these tips are based on our own personal experience road tripping with cats. All cats have different personalities and may react differently in the car! We are not veterinarians – please consult with your cat’s vet about the best way to travel with your cat in the car.

1. Try to stop as little as possible

When you first get in the car, your cat will be nervous (no matter how relaxed he/she normally is). However, most cats will settle in after a few minutes of adjusting to their surroundings and the motion of the car.

Each time you stop, there are new sights, sounds, and smells for your cat to take in, and he/she may become unsettled all over again. To minimize your cat’s stress, try to make as few stops as possible.

Pack snacks and lunches, fill up on gas the night before and only stop when absolutely necessary. In general, cats don’t like change, so trying to create a consistent environment is key.

2. Get your cat a collar with tag for traveling

My biggest fear when hitting the road with Fitzgerald is that somehow he’ll escape at a gas station or rest area and be lost forever! A bit dramatic, I know, but cats are so sneaky and it’s easy to imagine him getting startled and darting out the door.

I got Fitzgerald a collar and tag with his name and both our phone numbers engraved on the tag, and it gives me serious peace of mind to know that if he somehow gets lost, we at least have a solid chance of getting him back.

• For an extra layer of protection, attach a tracking device ( Apple Airtag or Tile ) to your cat’s collar.

Tip: You can get an inexpensive collar and engraved name tag super easily at most pet supply stores.

3. Bring a familiar comfort item from home

Fitzgerald has absolutely loved this old, raggedy orange blanket since he was just a little kitten. At home, he’ll knead, or “make biscuits,” on it all the time before he naps. It’s definitely his favorite comfort item (or security blanket, if you will)!

Whenever we road trip, we bring this blanket and make sure he has a comfy spot to curl up with it. If your cat has a favorite toy, blanket, bed, etc., it’s a great idea to bring with you! A little hint of familiarity from home can bring some comfort to your cat in a new environment.

Side note : When cats “make biscuits” like Fitzgerald does, they are replicating the act of nursing, and it’s typically because they lost their mother too early as a kitten.

4. If possible, make one long trip rather than several shorter trips

Let’s say you’ve got a 12 hour drive coming up. You may think it’d be best for your cat if you split this long drive up into two shorter 6 hours drives, stopping for the night along the way. In our experience, however, it’s actually better to just go for the full 12 hours at once.

Cats hate change , and one long drive means less change than 2 shorter drives. Typically, the most stressful parts of the road trip are getting into the car and settling into a new place at your destination.

Taking several shorter trips means more adjusting to the car and more adjusting to temporary new homes when you stop.

5. Create a “safe space” in the car for your cat to retreat to

This is especially important if your cat is a “hider.” Set aside a comfortable space in the car for your cat to retreat to when he or she gets scared.

We typically pack Fitzgerald’s cat carrier and leave it open with some toys and blankets during the car ride in case he wants to curl up in his own little “safe space”. He ends up spending most of his time in the car lounging inside the carrier.

6. If your cat is especially nervous, try feline anxiety medication

You should only try medication as a last resort . Many cats will be perfectly fine in the car without medication, as long as you take appropriate steps to keep them comfortable.

But if your cat is particularly anxious, it may be a good idea to talk to your veterinarian about anxiety medication to keep them calm in the car.

7. Try letting your cat roam free, but always pack a carrier just in case

We’re very lucky that Fitzgerald has a laid-back demeanor, and we’re able to let him roam free in the car. He typically spends his time in the car either sleeping on our laps, perched up on our piles of stuff looking out the window, or curled up in his carrier.

If your cat is laid back in the car, you may want to try to let them roam free, at least to start out. Having some space to move around will make your cat happier, and hopefully, mean less whining.

It’s a good idea to test this out with a short trip , and whether it’s a good idea for you depends on your cat’s personality. If you are traveling alone, it’s best to keep your cat in the crate since you will have no one to help you in the event that the cat starts to become a distraction.

That being said, safety should always come first. If your cat starts to try to get under your feet or becomes a serious distraction to your driving, it’s better to be safe and crate them. Always pack a cat carrier or small crate just in case, even if you don’t think you’ll need it.

8. If you must crate your cat, leave the carrier out several days before your trip

If you plan on crating your cat, it can be helpful to leave your car carrier out in your home a few days prior to your trip. Put some of your cats favorite toys, blankets, or bed in there and let them get used to being in the crate before the trip.

Doing so will give your cat some time to adjust to life in the crate and reduces the chance they will freak when it comes time for your road trip.

9. Pack your cat’s litter box, filled with clean litter

Cat’s have an amazing ability to hold in their urge to go to the bathroom. That being said, sometimes the urge can be overwhelming and your cat will need to use the litter box on the road, particularly if you are road tripping long distance . Make sure their litter box is accessible in the car so they can relieve themselves if nature calls.

Most importantly, make sure the litter box is clean before you leave! You do not want to be stuck in the car with a dirty litter box for hours.

The smell of clean litter can be overwhelming on its own! We recommend getting a covered litter house with a door , if you don’t have one already, to help contain the smell and reduce the likelihood of any litter spills.

10. Take away your cat’s food the night before the trip

Your cat might be mad at you for taking away their food, but trust us, it is not as bad as a puking cat at the start of a road trip.

Our cat, Fitzgerald, usually does great on road trips but both times we’ve forgotten to take away his food, he has thrown up within an hour of being in the car. The first time we were lucky and he made it to his litter box. The second time, he barfed all over Matt’s legs in the passenger seat. Not fun for felines or humans!

To reduce the chance of any pukey cats, take away their food before going to bed the night before your trip. They may whine at first but they will be okay, and you will definitely be thankful when you have a barf-free car ride!

11. Set up a small, quiet place for your cat to rest at your final destination

How you introduce your cat to his/her new environment is just as important (if not more!) to your cat’s mental health as how you handle the car ride.

Like we’ve said, cats do not handle change well so giving them time and space to adjust to new surroundings is super important. They will also likely be tired from a long and stressful journey in the car.

Once you get to your final destination, it may take some time for your cat to warm up to their new surroundings. This is perfectly normal. Try to make them feel as comfortable and safe as possible by setting up a quiet place for them to rest and adjust.

Road trip packing list for your cat

To help you prepare for taking your cat on a long distance road trip, we’ve summarized the most important items to pack:

• A favorite item from home: make sure you have something available in the car that reminds your cat of home and brings them a sense of comfort. This can be anything – a favorite toy, blanket, pillow, bed, etc.
• Cat carrier : for moving your cat to and from the car, and just in case you need to contain your cat while driving.
• Collar and leash with name tag : for moving your cat to and from the car, and just in case your cat gets loose.
• Litter house (with a door) : so your cat can use the bathroom while in the car if necessary, without spilling litter everywhere.
• Comfortable bed or blanket: If you are traveling with a fully loaded down car, make sure you have a comfortable spot for your cat to relax.
• Anxiety medication: if needed, talk to your vet
• Treats! But only for after you arrive at your final destination (Fitzgerald’s all time favorites are Temptations Shrimpy Shrimps )
• Scratching post : At home Fitzgerald loves his scratching post with hammock . Even though its a bit bulky, we always bring it with us on road trips because it means he won’t scratch up furniture at our Airbnb/hotel/short-term rental. 100% worth the space it takes up!

Other Useful Resources

Planning a road trip? You may also be interested in the following resources:

• Road trip | 59 Best Songs About Travel and Adventure
• Road trip| Complete List of Road Trip Camping Essentials
• Road trip | 27 Highlights of Our Life on the Road in 2021
• Road trip | The Ultimate 1 Week Arizona and Southern Utah Road Trip
• Road trip | How to Plan an Epic Utah National Parks Road Trip
• Road trip | Texas to California: 14-Day Itinerary

With the right preparation, you can ensure that both you and your cat have a low-stress and safe road trip experience. Let us know if you have any questions as you get ready to hit the road or other tips you use to make road tripping with your furry friend a breeze .

Sarah Vaughan

Hello! I'm Sarah, one half of the couple behind Two Outliers! In 2023, I quit my job as a Data Scientist to travel around the world on an epic 15-month journey in search of the world's greatest hikes and outdoor adventures. Matt and I started Two Outliers in 2021 as a place for visitors to find concise, accurate, and honest information to plan their own adventures. We hope our experiences inspire you to hit the trail! Happy Hiking! Sarah

11 Comments

Judy McCormick · September 4, 2022 at 8:32 am

We bought a large, comfortable carrier for our back seat that has it’s own litter box, but, made the mistake of giving him treats before we left which our cat threw up and, ended up sitting in the litter box! Will definitely take advice about stopping food night before, and think will try to have his regular litter box outside the carrier, because it is very hard to clean that carrier! Are planning to take him to Florida in February, and, appreciate any help we can get! Would like to know if you should try to give food and water to your cat while traveling?

twooutliers · September 11, 2022 at 5:32 pm

Hi Judy! We typically give Fitzgerald water while traveling (especially on longer trips) but try to avoid giving him food if possible because we’ve found that it upsets his stomach in the car. Also, we have a litter box house with a lid that does wonders to prevent the mess in the car! It’s definitely a bit large, but we like to give him the option to have it and it’s pretty easy to take with us.

Marcus Koolmees · August 30, 2022 at 5:34 am

Thanks for this article, I was wondering though: Do you let Fitzgerald roam free outside when you get to the new location? I’d be worried of the cat walking off / getting lost?

Jenny Wong · August 18, 2022 at 2:06 pm

What a fantastic well written article! I am potentially moving from Ontario, Canada to Alberta, Canada which is a 45 hour or more car ride if we make no stop. We plan on making stops. This was a great read and I’ve wrote down some notes. I will for sure also talk to my veterinarian for further advice.

twooutliers · August 22, 2022 at 9:47 pm

Thanks so much! We were just in Alberta – it’s one of our absolute favorite places!

Syd · July 12, 2022 at 1:55 pm

Most of this seems like very solid advice, but I genuinely don’t think letting the cat roam about in the car while it’s moving is a good idea, given that the cat could easily get around the pedals and potentially cause a very dangerous situation. Every vet I’ve ever been to heavily emphasized even on short trips taking your cats in carriers specifically because of this. They may be somewhat less happy about the situation, which does suck, but is likely better than the potential death of everyone in the vehicle.

twooutliers · July 13, 2022 at 8:39 pm

Hi Syd, completely see your point. I think it depends a ton on the personality of the cat. We’ve traveled thousands of miles in the car with our cat and never had any trouble. But certainly, not all cats are as laid back, so whether it’s a good idea definitely varies and should be up to the cat’s owner who knows their personality best. We’d also never do this if traveling alone, in case the cat starts to become distracting or tries to get under the driver’s seat. I’ve updated that section to include a few extra words of warning on this 🙂

Sherry Kirchoff · May 30, 2022 at 11:02 pm

Thanks bunches for your amazing tips for taking Fitzgerald on car trips! My child and I have two rescued cats, and our trip is going to be 14 hours plus delays/stops. I designed the cats’ collar tags (HippieClecticHope on Zazzle), but I was otherwise clueless about preparation (I don’t normally travel, let alone with passengers).

twooutliers · June 8, 2022 at 8:41 am

Hi Sherry, best of luck with your trip! Hope you and your cats have a safe drive. That’s so cool that you designed the collar tags yourself!!

Alexandra Romanyshyn · May 20, 2022 at 12:11 pm

A lot of great advice here! Just to add on: if you do let your cat roam free in your car, be sure to disable your airbags. Airbags are deployed with enough force that they can crush an animal, or even a carrier. God forbid you do get into an accident, the safest place for your pet will be in a crate buckled into the back seat, which will prevent them from getting jostled around as much and also protect them from airbags. There are many articles on this issue, but here’s one for starters: https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/cars/1427837/driving-animals-pets-road-safety-airbags-danger

twooutliers · June 5, 2022 at 5:49 pm

Hi Alexandra, that’s a great point, thanks so much for the tip!

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• Cat Behavior
• Health & Care
• Vet Approved

How to Travel Long-Distance With a Cat: 15 Tips & Tricks

Image Credit: Helena Zezulkova, Shutterstock

Last Updated on June 11, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

VET APPROVED

REVIEWED & FACT-CHECKED BY

Dr. Maxbetter Vizelberg DVM

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Whether you are moving across the country or just taking a long road trip, traveling long-distance with your cat can be concerning. Some cats don’t like to travel, and it’s easier to leave them at home with a caregiver while you’re away. However, in some cases, it’s necessary to bring your cat with you. Relocation and extended trips may require that your cat come along, no matter how they feel about it.

In this article, we have tips and tricks for long-distance travel with your cat. First, we look at the best ways to travel with your cat in a car and then for traveling with your cat on an airplane.

• Before You Go

Talk to your vet about traveling with your cat, and make sure the animal is healthy enough for the experience. Ask about any prevalent diseases in your destination, and ensure that your cat has the necessary vaccinations. No matter how you’re traveling, you should always have your cat’s identification tags on their harness and be sure that they are always wearing the harness attached to a leash when they are not in their carrier.

As you plan your route, check for emergency veterinary hospitals along the way just in case you need one. Pack the cat’s medical records, paperwork, and vaccination records, and keep them handy. Plan to stop at pet-friendly hotels in advance so you aren’t scrambling to find one when you want to stop driving.

Book a flight with the fewest stops, if possible. Ask about the airline’s animal policies, and try to book a flight that will allow your cat to be in the cabin with you instead of in the cargo area. Find out the rules for this ahead of time, as they vary by airline.

• The 9 Tips for Long-Distance Travel With a Cat in a Car
• 1. Familiarize Your Cat With the Car

Cats may associate the car with vet trips and be anxious during them. Before the trip, start taking your cat for short rides in the car. Frequent rides that don’t end with vaccinations or exams may get your cat comfortable with being in the car. If they’re used to the vehicle, they’ll be calmer on a long trip.

• 2. Choose & Familiarize Your Cat With the Carrier

Choose a carrier that is comfortable, well-ventilated, and large enough for your cat. We don’t recommend traveling with your cat loose in the car. If there is an accident, your cat could get injured or escape and be lost in unfamiliar territory. If a door is opened and your cat isn’t secure, they could bolt. A carrier is the safest place for them. Be sure that when your cat is in the carrier, they are not wearing a collar or anything that could get caught and tighten around their neck. Have a harness and leash handy for stops. Only open the car doors once your cat is leashed, so they can stretch their legs outside. If you’d like to put a litter box in the carrier, make sure there is enough room for your cat to rest comfortably away from it.

Before the trip, leave the carrier open in the house and let your cat smell and get used to it. You can even feed them inside of it to help them learn that it’s not a scary place to be.

• 3. Feed Your Cat Before Leaving

Feed your cat between 4 and 6 hours before you leave. Their food needs time to settle so it doesn’t make them throw up. If you know that your cat gets motion sickness , this is especially important. Bring food and plenty of water that is just for your cat with you on the trip so you can feed them at their regular mealtimes. These should ideally correspond with your own times to stop, rest, and eat. Give your cat time to digest their food before you continue.

• 4. Ventilate the Car If You Leave

If you must park and leave your cat in the car, use caution. Leave your cat in the carrier, and roll down the windows about 1 inch. No matter what the weather is, don’t leave your cat alone for more than a couple of minutes. The car can heat up to dangerous temperatures, even if the weather feels pleasant to you. It can also get cold quickly, so always keep your pit stops as short as possible.

• 5. Make Their Carrier Comfortable

Since your cat will be spending most of their time confined to the carrier, it should be a comfortable experience for them. If they have a bed, put it in the carrier. Add blankets or towels that smell like home. You can also give them toys or catnip.

The carrier should be in a place where the cat can see out of it. Even if the car is packed full, be sure to give your cat a way to look out and see what’s happening around them. If your cat is nervous, you may want to line the carrier with pee pads in case accidents occur. These will keep the carrier floor dry in case your cat pees or vomits.

A travel litter box is convenient because it’s small and easy to transport. It can fit inside most carriers if you want to give your cat the option to use it. If you don’t put a litter box in the carrier, be sure to stop regularly and let your cat use their litter box either in the car or outside on a leash and harness.

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• 6. Keep Your Cat Calm

Calming pheromone spray or anxiety-reducing treats might be helpful if your cat gets nervous while traveling. Speak to your vet before using anything new. They may even prescribe medication to calm your cat if they get severely stressed in the car.

• 7. Pack the Essentials

You’ll need your cat’s food and water bowls, treats, litter, litter scoop, litter box, and food all within easy reach in the car. You can use travel food and water bowls on the road because they can fold up and be stored while you’re driving. This way, their regular bowls can remain packed away. Keep your cat hydrated by leaving a small dish of water in the carrier or offering water to them at regular intervals.

• Read more:   What to Pack When Traveling with Your Cat: 11 Essentials for Your List
• 8. Maintain the Car Temperature

Good air circulation in the car will prevent your cat from getting too hot. If your car doesn’t have air conditioning and you’re traveling in warm weather, wrap ice packs in a towel and put them around the carrier to help your cat stay cool. Refresh these with new ice whenever you stop.

Make sure the carrier isn’t in a place where the sun is beating directly on it and the cat can’t escape it. There should be shade in the carrier at all times, even if you have to cover half of it with a towel. Check your cat regularly for signs of discomfort.

• 9. Take Breaks

Stick to a schedule that allows for frequent breaks. Your cat will need to eat and use a litter box and may not feel comfortable doing either of these things inside the carrier . If you don’t want to or can’t take breaks, plan your trip to only drive a handful of hours each day to give your cat time to rest, especially if they are nervous in the carrier.

Pet stores are great places to take bathroom breaks because you can bring your cat inside with you! This is also a perfect time to stock up on any cat supplies that you need.

• The 6 Tips for Long-Distance Travel With a Cat on an Airplane
• 10. Be Aware of the Pet Policy

Learn the rules of the airline regarding animal travel , and make sure to follow them thoroughly to avoid delays and to keep your cat safe. Be sure to use a carrier approved for your airline.

• 11. Practice Security Protocol

You will need to remove your cat from the carrier and carry them through the security checkpoint. You can practice doing this at home by placing your cat in the carrier. Carry the carrier around your home, and then stop, open it, and pick up your cat. They should already be attached to a harness and leash while in the carrier. Then, walk to the next room with them. Give them treats and praise them for remaining calm.

• 12. Pack Cat Supplies in Your Carry-On Bag

A folded travel litter box, a baggie of litter, treats, and a collapsible water bowl are handy to have with you in the cabin . If the flight is long, you can bring your cat to the bathroom and set up their litter box to give them a chance to use it. You can ask the flight attendant for bottled water and give your cat a drink. Consider what you’ll need for the length of your flight to keep your cat comfortable.

• 13. Arrive Early

Traveling with a cat takes longer than traveling alone. Plan extra time for yourself by arriving at the airport early. In case there’s any delay with going through security or reviewing your cat’s medical records, you’ll have the time that you need to still make your flight.

• 14. Respect Fellow Passengers

It can be tempting to take your cat out of the carrier and put them in your lap, but other passengers may not like this. Some may be allergic, and others may be scared of cats. Your cat should stay in the carrier for the entire flight unless you take them to the bathroom with their litter box. This is also the safest place for your cat to be.

If your cat is in the cargo area, you won’t be able to see them until your flight has landed. In this case, let the flight attendants know that your cat is on board. It’s helpful to have other people aware of your animal so they can tend to them if there are delays or emergencies.

• Once You’ve Arrived at Your Destination

When you’ve finally arrived at your destination, whether it’s a new home or a hotel room for the night, it’s important to set up everything that your cat needs and make sure the area is safe before letting them out of the carrier. Close all doors and windows.

Give your cat time to adjust and get comfortable. They may initially hide for a while. Once they feel safe, they will come out to explore their new surroundings. You should have their litter box, food, water, favorite toys, and treats out for them so they know that this is a space for them.

Keep an eye on your cat, even if they’re hiding , to make sure they are safe and not getting into anything hazardous, like trying to climb into a dangerous spot. Use calming sprays if necessary.

Stick to your cat’s routine regarding feeding and sleeping times. When your cat comes out of hiding, try to engage them in playing with toys or cuddling with you. Watch for any signs of illness or things that seem out of character for your cat. If they seem to be in distress, contact the nearest veterinarian for an appointment.

If you’ve just moved into a new home, it’s best to set up an appointment with your new vet as soon as possible to get your cat registered as a new client. Be sure to update any identification tags with your new address and/or phone number.

Cats would always prefer not to travel, but if they must, there are ways to make the process more comfortable for them. We hope that these tips have helped you plan a trip with your cat’s needs in mind. Your trip will be much more pleasant when you know what to expect and take the time to make sure everything is in order before you set off.

• 5 Cat Breeds That Like to Travel: Pictures, Facts & Tips
• Traveling With Kittens: 7 Essential Tips

Featured Image Credit by: Helena Zezulkova, Shutterstock

About the Author

Jessica Rossetti

Jessica is a lifelong resident of Chicago who has shared her home with furry, feathered, and scaly pets for over 30 years. Animal enthusiast since childhood Jessica owned and operated a pet care company . Nowadays, Jessica is a full-time writer who loves to explore all animal topics while contemplating the birds and squirrels enjoying the oasis of her backyard.

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Road Trips and Car Travel With Cats

Author: LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, FFCP

Published: April 17, 2024

Our mission is to help save dogs' and cats’ lives through our educational content. To support our efforts, this page may contain affiliate links . We earn a commission for qualifying purchases – at no cost to you.

During the summer months and around the holidays, many of us head out on road trips and consider taking our feline family members along.

Summer is also a peak time for relocating across town or across country.

The problem is that most cats don’t feel safe in the car. They may cry or yowl, hide in their carrier, and even soil due to fear. That means an unpleasant trip for them and you.

It is possible to help your cat feel more secure in the car. Some may even learn to love it. We’re going to walk you through the steps to desensitize your cat to being in the car.

We’ll also recommend travel items to bring in the car and for a hotel stay so that you both have a safe and comfortable trip.

Skip to section:

• How to get your cat comfortable with car travel
• How to use a litter box when you travel – and will your cat use it?
• Where to stay when traveling with your cat and what to consider
• Special travel considerations for sick cats
• Be prepared for emergencies while traveling

Getting Your Cat Ready for a Road Trip

Step 1: get your kitty feeling comfortable in their carrier..

If they're going to ride in the car, like you, they’ll need to be safely “buckled up” to protect not just them but everyone in the car and on the road.

After all, unrestrained cats can be a distraction, interfering with your ability to steer or brake, and even become a dangerous projectile in the event of a crash or sudden stop.

What if your cat is wearing a harness and leash? If the car is moving, I still say keep them secure in a carrier. If you want to let them stretch their legs on the harness and leash while the car is stopped and windows are up, go for it. Just keep in mind that you’ve got to get them back in the carrier when you start moving again, and they may not love that.

It could be less stressful for everyone to stick with the carrier in the car and try the harness and leash INSIDE your hotel or destination. More on the dangers of letting your cat out of the car on their harness and leash later in the article.

So, your first step starts well before your trip. Spend some time training your cat to love their carrier – we have an article on that process – before the big travel day arrives.

Don't have a carrier for your cat yet? Check out our carrier recommendations, including carriers that are crash-test certified . If your cat is going to be spending a lot of long hours in the car, you may opt for a larger carrier than normal. We cover that, too. Just keep in mind you’ll want that carrier sooner rather than later, so you can use it during the pre-travel training.

Step 2: Get your cat feeling comfortable in the car.

Now that your kitty feels better in their carrier, it’s time to help them feel comfortable in the car. Here are some steps to help you do that.

Pro Tip: Car acclimation is best done with two people … one to drive the car, the other to pet, praise, and treat kitty. It can be done with one person, too, but very carefully.

You’re going to do short sessions in the car – your cat dictates how long the sessions will be. The number of sessions depends on how quickly your cat gets comfortable. The main thing is that you don’t want to push your cat past their comfort zone. Your cat should always be calm.

You might be thinking that even if your cat is scared, leaving them in the car in spite of their fear will eventually show them they don’t have to be afraid. Nope! That’s not how cat brains work. Instead, think of it as starting at a really low intensity so your cat doesn’t have to be scared. As they’re ready, you slowly turn up the intensity.

If you turn it up too far and they get nervous, just end the session and lower the intensity for the next session.

Show them there’s no reason to be afraid because you’re not going to push them too far. And they’re getting good things through the entire process, so you’re actually turning a scary thing into a positive thing.

Take your cat out to the car in their carrier – covered on three sides with a towel or blanket for security.

With the car parked and not running and the doors and windows closed (weather permitting), sit in the back seat with your cat in their carrier. Partially open one of the carrier doors if you can do so without your cat trying to get out.

Then, make good things happen. Give treats (make sure it's a treat they love ), pets, praise, and show them this is a positive experience. Do this for just a few minutes (or longer if your cat is really enjoying it). Then, take them inside and end with treats and love. You’ll continue these sessions, gradually making them longer as your cat is comfortable, until your cat seems nice and calm, spending time in the car while in their carrier.

Next, you’ll turn up the intensity a bit by starting the car. Make sure the radio is off or very low (cats find classical music calming). And repeat the previous step.

Spend a few minutes in the back seat making good things happen for your cat while the car is running. If the engine really scares them, keep it short — just 1 minute with some treats. Again, you can gradually increase the length of time your cat is in the car, getting good things while the engine is on.

Caution: If your car is parked in your garage, either open your garage door or move your car out of the garage. Carbon monoxide is very dangerous for both of you!

Once your kitty is doing well with the car on, it’s time to turn the intensity up again. Time for a short drive.

Note: If they’re too nervous to eat treats, they’re probably not ready for this step. Back it up and spend more time on the previous steps.

It may just be pulling out of the driveway in the first couple of sessions. That’s just fine. You’ll work up to longer drives. And your cat will learn that being in the car doesn’t mean going to the vet. Never push these drives further than your cat is comfortable with. Also, be sure to drive calmly and go easy on the gas pedal and brakes.

Since each cat and each situation are different, it could take anywhere from a few sessions to several months for a cat to feel calm during car travel.

Car Travel Logistics With Cats

Will a cat use a litter box in a car.

Jumping right down to “business,” … depending on the duration of your travel adventures with kitty and where you’re winding up, you’re going to have to deal with litter box accommodations. This is the case both when you’re on the road and when you get to your hotel or destination.

Just because you give your cat access to a box doesn’t mean they’ll use it, especially if they’re nervous.

Cats don’t like to eliminate when they feel unsafe. They'll likely choose to do their business once you get to your destination. It’s nothing to worry about unless they go more than about 24 hours without peeing. At that point, call your vet and see what they suggest.

When I moved with my cats, and we had 8-hour days in the car, they held it all day and most of the night.

If they’re willing, you can help your cat take care of business on the road in a few different ways.

First, get them a good travel litter box. You’ll use the same litter they use at home, and (perhaps) even a litter attractant.

A good travel litter box will be large enough for your cat to fit in yet small enough to fit in their carrier. It will also be waterproof and sturdy. You can use a small plastic litter box or there are also disposable litter box options available.

We have travel litter box and large carrier recommendations here .

Set the travel box up in your home as an alternate option before your trip so your cat can get used to it. Don’t replace your regular boxes with the travel box, though. Have all options available.

If Your Carrier Can't Fit a Litter Box

Letting your cat out of a carrier to use a box placed in the car isn’t ideal. I actually rescued a kitten from the roadside once without a carrier. That kitten ended up inside my dashboard. So, if you think your cat can’t hide in dangerous places within the confines of your car, you’re wrong.

If your trip isn’t too long and their carrier isn’t large enough to fit a litter box, you can go with a larger litter box that they can use at the hotel or destination.

Note: If your cat uses the smaller travel litter box on the road, don’t consider replacing your larger boxes at home. Tiny boxes are not ideal and don’t fit your cat’s instinctual needs. They’re not a good long-term option. They’re the lesser of two evils when you’re traveling — the other evil being your cat peeing in the carrier.

Should You Let Your Cat Go Outside?

My vote is no unless you have a cat who is completely comfortable with travel, being in new places, and seeing and hearing strange people, pets, and sounds.

The first concern is that no harness is 100% escape-proof. If your cat gets scared, they can and will get out of that harness and take off.

Second, they’re going to be surrounded by newness — smells, sights, sounds, things you can’t control. Even if they don’t get scared, the idea that you’ll be able to get them to focus on peeing at that moment isn’t very likely. Cats don’t pee and poop on cue the way dogs can. It’s safer to keep them in the car.

What Do You Do With Your Cat When You Have to Go?

If the temperatures aren’t too hot or cold to leave your cat in the car, just leave them in their carrier and go about your business. Just make it quick!

Cover three sides of the carrier so they feel more secure and are less of a target for theft. Use a light cover (blanket) for warm days and a heavier cover for cooler days. Both should still allow for airflow.

It's usually safe between about 40–65 degrees F (4–18 degrees C), though every cat and every situation will be different, so use this as a rough guide.

Talk to your vet about more specific safe temperature ranges for your cat based their age, breed, and any chronic medical conditions they may have or medications they may be on. If the temperatures are outside of that range, you’re going to have to take some precautions when making your own pit stops that take you away from your car.

In some cases, it may be possible for you to bring your cat into the bathroom with you in their carrier.

Quick tips if you must leave your cat in the car

• Some cars now have pet mode , like Telsa, Chevrolet Bolt, Rivian, and other Form and BMW models. Caution: If you decide to leave your engine running in a gas-powered car, be aware that car engines and air conditioner compressors can and do fail, leading to excessively hot temperatures building up in the car quickly. Similar malfunctions can happen in EV cars, too, and if the battery dies, the cooling system will shut off.
• If leaving your car and running the A/C or heat isn’t possible or practical, pre-cool or pre-heat your car the best you can by running the system on high for several minutes before you get out. Then, be quick!
• Move their carrier from the back seat to the back floor. Since hot air rises, it should be a bit cooler on the floor. There are fans made for keeping pets cool in the car , but we really can't overstate this: pets should never be left in a closed car, even in the shade or with cooling devices. In this case, it's simply for a quick amount of time.
• Park in the most well-shaded spot you can find.
• Park with your front windshield facing the sun and put up a reflective windshield sun shade like this one .
• Cracking the windows doesn’t make a huge difference, but it also doesn’t hurt (so long as your cat is securely in their carrier and there’s no danger of someone reaching into your car and stealing them and your stuff).
• Make sure you leave your cat plenty of water.
• If it's cold outside, add a warm blanket or fleece to your cat's carrier for them to snuggle up. If it's sunny, move the carrier to a sunny spot in the car.
• Be as quick with your stop as possible. If it’s a food break, get it to go from a drive-thru and eat it in your car.

Where to Stay When Traveling With Your Cat

Road trips and long-distance moves with cats will often require hotel stays. But not all hotels, motels, or rentals are pet-friendly. And just because they say they’re “pet” friendly doesn’t mean they’re “cat” friendly. So, plan ahead. Call to confirm they take cats and reserve the room or rental in advance.

Pro Tip: “Pet-friendly” means other pets likely stayed in that room recently! Not everyone uses flea and other parasite protection on their cats and dogs. Make sure your cat is protected before heading out on the road! Learn more about safe and effective parasite prevention for your cat , and talk to your veterinarian.

What to Do With Your Cat in the Hotel or Rental

Once you’re out of the car, you’re faced with a question. Do you let your cat out in the hotel or rental to explore, or do you keep them confined? There’s a lot that goes into the answer. Here are some things to consider:

Is your cat relaxed in new places? Being in their carrier in the car is different than being in a completely new room with smells and places to hide.

Does your cat chew, climb, or otherwise destroy things? I couldn’t let my cat into a new space without putting cord protectors on every cord, or they’d be chewed in a matter of minutes.

Are there hiding places you can’t get to or unsafe spaces your cat can reach? The last thing you want is your cat stuck in the vents of a hotel or squeezing through that tiny hole in the wall behind the fridge in your rental. It happens.

Is it clean? Not to get gross, but you may not want your cat rolling around on a motel floor or getting under the bed.

Is it safe from toxins? There could be rodent traps or pest poison in the room that could be dangerous for your cat.

Is there any chance they’re going to pee on something? Yep, it happened to me on my road trip. My cat was stressed and peed all over the fabric carrier, and it soaked through to the bed. Talk about embarrassing. And there's sometimes an additional cleaning fee for mishaps like this.

Confinement for Safety

I like the idea of bringing along a much larger, collapsible pet pen for overnight use. They’re plenty big enough for a good-sized litter box and everything your cat needs. There’s even room to play. Just make sure you get one with a top, or your cat will jump right out.

If you want to let your cat out on a harness and leash or heavily supervised, you have the option. But you’ve got the pet pen as a backup just in case you need it. You never know how a cat is going to react in a new space, especially when you’re sleeping or in the shower and they’re unsupervised. Here are a few great options:

Available at:

Travel Considerations for Cats With Chronic Health Issues

Before striking out on the road for a long trip or moving with a cat who has a chronic medical condition or is on long-term medications — like diabetes , hyperthyroidism , chronic kidney disease , or heart disease — there are a few precautions you should take.

• Make sure your cat had a recent (ideally within the past month or so) exam with their vet. You’ll have more peace of mind knowing that their condition is as well managed as possible and that they’re as healthy as can be before hitting the road with them. Your vet will also have recommendations for making their trip as comfortable and safe as possible.
• Bring a copy of your cat’s medical records with you! This should include recent exam notes, laboratory test results, and medication/supplement names and dosages. Your vet can often print these out (with enough notice), and they may even subscribe to an app or other service that allows you to keep updated copies of such records with you always on your phone. This will make visiting another vet on the road much easier.
• Especially for cats with known chronic health concerns, it’s a good idea to know about a few vet hospitals along your route and in the area of your destination before you head out. See the vet locator tools listed in the next emergency section to start searching.
• If your cat is on a special prescription diet, like for their kidneys, make sure to stock up on it from your vet before leaving. It’s not always easy to get prescription diet refills when you’re away from home. You should take enough with you to last for the duration of your trip PLUS an additional (at least) 2 weeks.
• Similarly, be sure to stock up on your pet’s medications and supplements, as well as any supplies you need for them. This would include needles and a travel-sized sharps container (or larger needle container ) for safely disposing of and storing used needles for diabetic cats, pills for blood pressure, overactive thyroid, and any other chronic medications. Again, you should take with you enough to last for the duration of your trip PLUS an additional (at least) 2 weeks.
• If your cat is diabetic and on insulin, don’t forget a cooler and ice packs to help keep it cool while in the car. You can also look into a cooler that plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter or USB, like these: Cooluli Mini , Wagan 14L , or the Wagan 24L (which could even store some of your food and drinks for the road). Pro Tip: Depending on the type of insulin your cat is on, you may be able to get an insulin “pen” that may be more stable outside of the fridge and easier to administer to your cat. It's still advisable to use a cooling case for the pens . Talk to your vet to see if an insulin pen is an option for your cat — it isn’t for all cats, but if it is for yours, it could be a great travel (and even long-term) solution for you.

Emergencies on the Road With Your Cat

It’s a good idea to plan ahead and map out a few 24-hour Emergency Clinics on your route, just in case. Try this vet emergency locator .

Have your hometown veterinary clinic number handy, too. For less serious issues, call them first. They may be able to give you advice or let you know if it’s a true emergency.

Make sure you have a card in your wallet or attached to your cat’s carrier with your cat’s name, the number where you can be reached during travel, and an emergency contact who is not traveling with you. If your cat has medical issues, you should list those as well or the contact info for your veterinary clinic. If there’s an accident, your car is stolen, or something happens where you’re separated from your cat, emergency services will have options.

I just got this great set for myself (featured below). The keychain says “pet home alone,” with instructions to look in your wallet for a card with emergency contact info. It’s meant to notify emergency services if you’re in an emergency situation and someone needs to care for your pet at home. In this case, you’d just include a note on the card that you’re traveling with your cat in the car.

It’s also vital to ensure your cat is microchipped and the contact information is up-to-date (including a way you can be reached on the road).

First Aid on the Road

Consider putting together a pet first-aid kit for your car. Here's a shopping list of first-aid essentials . Look for the icon of a little car 🚗, as it's these products that are the most essential in a smaller, travel-sized first-aid kit.

We encourage you to leave a comment below if you’ve got any tricks, tips, or products you’ve used that made car travel with your cats easier. Best of luck on your travels or your move. Have fun and be safe! 

About the author

LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, FFCP

LeeAnna Buis has adored cats her entire life and thought she knew them inside-out and sideways. But it wasn’t until she worked with a feline behavior consultant that she fully understood how incredible, complicated, and inspiring cats really are. Literally, that day, she made a career change knowing she wanted to give other cat parents the same experience of truly “seeing” and appreciating their cats. Now, she works virtually with cat parents all over the world through Feline Behavior Solutions and Preventive Vet.

LeeAnna earned her certification through Animal Behavior Institute, earning the CFTBS designation. She is a certified Fear Free® trainer (FFCP), a training professional member of the Pet Professional Guild (PPG), and a member of both the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and Cat Writer’s Association (CWA).

More about LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, FFCP

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Article: Going on a Road Trip with Your Cat? Here's What You Should Know

Going on a Road Trip with Your Cat? Here's What You Should Know

Think it's impossible to take your fur baby with you on a road trip? Think again! Traveling with cats doesn't have to be stressful, and there are many ways you can prep in advance to make your road trip go smoothly. 

While cats do like familiar surroundings and can have a hard time adjusting to too much change, there are things you can do before your road trip to make sure they are as comfortable as possible & you can have an enjoyable experience out on the road together. Traveling long distance with cats can seem intimidating at first, but this comprehensive guide to road-tripping with your cat has everything you need to know for your cat-venture, plus lots of cat car ride tips from fellow cat parents. Let's hit the road! 

Table of Contents: 

Before the trip, packing the essentials.

Choosing the Right Cat Carrier

Features of a Good Cat Carrier

Where to Place the Cat Carrier in the Car

Train a Cat to Like the Carrier

Best Cat Carriers and Cat Backpacks for a Fun Road Trip with Your Cat

Litter Box, Scoop, and Litter Supply

Choosing the Best Litter Box

How will my cat use the litter box on a car ride?

The Best Portable Litter Box for Cats

Medical Documents

Cat Stress Medication & Anxiety Relief

Food & Treats

Feeding & Water Essentials

How do I travel with multiple cats or pets?

What not to do on your car trip.

What should I do if my cat gets carsick?

How do I entertain my cat during the trip?

The best way to prepare for a long car ride with your cat is to help them get used to the car at least a few weeks before you plant to leave. Train them by letting them sit in the car for a little bit to get used to the smells & sounds, then begin taking small rides around the neighborhood, to your vet, or run errands together.

Make sure you have a   cat carrier  that they are comfortable in, and that is safe for traveling long distance with cats. Your cat carrier or cat backpack will work as a cat car seat, making sure that they have a cozy place to call home when you're out on the road.  Now is a great time to also start leash training if your cat isn't already used to their leash. For some helpful tips on leash & harness training, see   this article .  

Visit a Veterinarian:   Make sure your cat is up to date on all of their shots before your road trip, and get a general check up to make sure your kitty is good to go. Bring along any paperwork just in case of an emergency vet visit on the road. 

Source a Cat-Friendly Hotel:   If you're planning an overnight road trip, make sure that you are staying somewhere that will welcome your kitty. There are tons of cat-friendly hotel options to choose from, like La Quinta & Hilton 2 Suites . 

Plan Pit Stops:  Plan some stops along the way so your kitty can get out & stretch, use their   portable litter box , or eat from   "The Travel Buddy" Foldable Food Bowl & Mat. 

Microchipping & ID Tags:  It's always a good idea to microchip your pet, just in case of emergency. Always make sure your pet's ID tag has your contact information printed clearly on it, so they can be returned to you ASAP if they are to get lost. 

Leash Training:  Leash training & harness training your cat will make going on a road trip that much easier. Taking pit stops, walking into the hotel, or even having your kitty attached to their leash & harness while in the car will give you peace of mind.  

View this post on Instagram A post shared by N E W T & E M U (@newttheadventurecat)

Tips from other cat parents:

"Harness Training! Good carriers that they are comfortable with. MICROCHIPS, and lots of patience!" @twintorties

"Practice before long rides. Build in stops to go to the litter box or eat. CBD oil is calming. Make sure you have a plan in case you need an emergency vet visit" @sherlock_thesiamesekitty

"We went for car rides before the big trip to get her used to being in the car for a long time."  @massy_masc

"Start harness training young. Let them adjust to it. Don't force it. Patience!" @ubliani

"Don't be sad if the first time he's afraid. By the second time, your kitty will be good!" @mariuxitapia 

@camerousseau

Cat Carrier

Choosing the right cat carrier is vital to making sure your cat feels safe & secure on your road trip. Cat carriers give your cat a place to call their own while they are riding in the car, and while they're out and about on your adventures! Check out our many different cat backpacks   here , all which are great for taking your cat in the car. We've got something for every Travel Cat!

Features of a Good Carrier -

• Strong - Obviously. You want your cat carrier to be made of high quality material! All of our carriers are made with top-of-the-line fabrics like oxford cotton & strong scratch-proof mesh. 
• Well-ventilated -  Your kitty needs a cat carrier that doesn't let them get too hot, and has plenty of airflow. All of our backpacks have multiple air holes or mesh paneling to make sure your cat gets all the fresh air they need!
• Size - Kitties are cute, in every size! Find the carrier that works best for your furry friend. We have cat backpacks for small, medium, and bigger boned cats that can hold up to 25lbs of floof. 
• Comfortable - If you aren't comfortable wearing your cat backpack, your kitty isn't going to feel comfortable either. All of our backpacks have adjustable straps and are super comfy for both kitty & hooman. 

"Take them on short walks in the bag and set them in the vehicle daily for 10-20 min. Maybe even drive around for a few min so they know what to expect during a car ride. Reward them with treats!" @ chernobylcat_n_mimo

Where to place the cat carrier in the car - 

Cat carrier backpacks and cat car seats should be placed on a secure surface where they won't slide, like the floor between the passenger's feet, or seat of your car. Never put your cat carrier in the trunk of your car, as there is not enough ventilation for safe airflow for your cat. Keep their carrier secure by fastening with a seatbelt, or placing between things to keep it in place. Avoid putting your cat carrier in front of a direct air conditioning/heating unit so your kitty doesn't get have to brave the elements! Make sure to bring your cat's favorite blankets for an extra cozy ride.

"Make the Backpack the safe space. they will always have somewhere to return to." @jules.adventure.cat

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lyra the Bengal Cat (@lyra_thebengalcat)

Train your cat to like the carrier - 

Making sure your cat feels at home in their secured cat carrier is important before you go on any road trips together. Practice by keeping the cat carrier out & accessible to them at home, so they can hop in and out whenever they want. Then practice by taking them outside, then on short walks, then longer walks. For more in-depth advice, check out   this article . 

"Bimini falls asleep in his fat cat backpack, and enjoys some of the trip looking out his space bubble" @bimini.the.ragdoll

Best cat carriers and cat backpacks for a fun car trip with your cat:

• "The Fat Cat" Cat Backpack for Larger Cats is a great backpack for a kitty who might need a little extra room, or if you're bringing more than one cat along for the ride!  
• "The Navigator" Cat Backpack for Adventure Cats is perfect for long car rides, because it has extra mesh paneling for optimal air flow, and it also converts into a normal carrier that lies on it's side, so your kitty can have extra space to stretch out in the back seat. 
• "The Jackson Galaxy" Convertible Cat Backpack is great for car trips because it also converts to a carrier that lays horizontally.    

"Transferred to his backpack when we made a stop and he did so well! No fights, no fits, so dreamy." @stephanielshulte  

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cali & Opie (@catventuresofcaliopie)

Travel Litter Box, Scoop & Litter Supply

Bringing a travel litter box along on a road trip is a must. Your cat needs a place to go, and you definitely don't want that place to be your back seat. Bring   "The Porta Pawty" Travel Litter Box   and use your cat's normal litter to keep their mess contained. This litter box zips up to keep mess from shifting around, and is seamless for an easy clean at the end of a long day on the road. Get your cat used to their portable litter box by starting to use it in your house, a few days before you set off on your trip. Put it in place of their normal litter box, using their normal litter to ease the transition.

"The Porta Pawty" Travel Litter Box

How will my cat use the travel litter box on a car ride?

Your cat might feel comfortable doing their business on the go, and if so, they could be let out of their carrier to go in their travel litter box if you pull over. But if your kitty prefers to go outside of the car, you might need to make a longer pit stop to set up their space. Since kitties like to eat & use the pawty shortly after, we recommend pulling over to do both safely & more conveniently. Thankfully, "The Porta Pawty" is super portable & easy to store away until you need it. Just unroll it, let your cat do their business, and zip back up to contain any mess once your kitty is done. 

Best Portable Litter Boxes for Cats:

"The Porta Pawty" Travel Litter Box is what we recommend. See more of its features,   here . 

Portable Travel Cat Beds

If you're planning an overnight trip, having a place for your kitty to sleep is a must, especially if you're going to an unfamiliar environment. Your cat will want a place to call their home and get away for a snooze sesh every now and then.

Don't forget to pack their favorite blankets, and "The Meowbile Home" Convertible Cat Bed & Cave is just that - a scent soaker bed that will help your kitty feel more at home, wherever you go. A scent soaker is something with your kitties scent or your scent on it and will help calm cats for travel because they'll be in a familiar-smelling place. "The Meowbile Home" is super lightweight and easy to transport in its drawstring bag. 

"The Meowbile Home" Convertible Cat Bed & Cave  

If your kitty needs some extra space to move around, try out "The Donut" Cat Bed & Cave . This bed is easy to transport and fits right on your car seat or in the back with the seats down, for a fun alternative to your cat backpack carrier. "The Donut" is not only a great place for a kitty snooze sesh, but it will also give your cat another way to play & entertain themselves on the road. 

"Donuts!! These have been a life saver for us, so much less whining when they have these to hide in." - @birchandluna

Medication & Anxiety Relief

It is important to bring along any medical documents that your cat might need on your road trip, like vaccination certificates, etc. just in case of an emergency. If they are on any medication, make sure to have those documents & the appropriate dosage to last the entirety of the road trip (plus extra). 

Prepare for your cat to feel some stress during the road trip, and if your cat is extremely prone to anxiety attacks, consider leaving them with a trusting friend or family member while you're gone. We do not recommend cat sedative for travel, but there are plenty of anxiety relief medications and solutions that would offer a safe alternative. Be sure to ask your vet what they would recommend you bring if your cat needs a little extra help calming down. We love Jackson Galaxy's "Easy Traveler" All-Natural Holistic Solution.  

Food & treats are also a great way to calm nerves, and entice an otherwise skeptical kitty. Try using their favorite treats while training them to ride in the car as well, rewarding after they get in the car and at the end of the drive. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zedd the Plant Cat (@plantcat_)

A hungry kitty is not a happy kitty, and you don't want to drive with an unhappy kitty. Continue using your cat's normal food & eating schedule while on your road trip, in order to keep things as familiar to them as possible. Store your cat's food in ziplock food bags to make sure it stays fresh, & mess free.

Keep your cat hydrated throughout the duration of the road trip with portable water bowls, especially if you're traveling somewhere on the hotter side. Make sure to bring more than enough food for the duration of your trip, along with plenty of treats! Check out our cat travel accessories &   food/water bowls , made to help your travels go a little smoother. Whether your cat likes dry or wet food, this silicone travel bowl is super easy to clean and store away when you're not using it.

"The Travel Buddy" Foldable All-In-One Double Bowl & Mat 

"The Go Anywhere Bowl" Collapsible Travel Pet Food and Water Dish

While your cat might enjoy peeking out the window for a bit, it won't entertain them for hours on end. Bring along your cat's favorite kickers, teaser wands, and other toys that will help them feel at home & entertain them while on the road. Check out these super fun & portable toys:

"The Rainbow Dancer" Cat Teaser Toy Wand

Traveling with Multiple Cats or Pets

The more floof the better! Going on a road trip with more than one furry friend might pose different challenges, but none that any cat-loving parent can't weather. Just make sure to have plenty of food, a carrier big enough for them or multiple carriers , and follow your cat parent instinct. Remember to take plenty of stretch/food/bathroom breaks, and bring treats galore. Having multiple cats come along might mean your cats can help entertain themselves, so the ride might be a little extra fun. Even if that means less - quiet 😹

If you're traveling with different types of pets, make sure your cats are well-adjusted or have time to meet & greet their road trip companions. If you're going on the road trip with some pet parents, try planning a little play date for your kitties and pets to meet before the big day. 

"If traveling with dogs AND cats, put the cats in the vehicle first and let them be used to the environment prior to letting the dogs in."  @chernobylcat_n_mimo

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Penelope and Juniper (@penelopelovesjuniper)

What not to do on your road trip:

Never leave your cat alone in the car.  This is especially important on extremely hot or cold days. If you are traveling and want to explore a bit on your own or go out to eat, we suggest finding a cat friendly hotel to stay at for the night, or pet sitter in the area! If you need to go to the bathroom, either bring your cat with you in their cat backpack, or if you're riding with a friend, have them sit in the car with your cat. 

Try not to let your cat out of their carrier. They might want some freedom & space to move around, which is why it's important to find a cat carrier that they are comfortable in. It is not safe to keep your cat out of their carrier while you are driving, in case of an emergency. They might protest at first, but try & build in plenty of walk breaks so they can stretch their legs, eat & use the bathroom, and give them lots of treats.

Don't leave the windows open too far, and always make sure they are locked. Having a cracked window might help keep your kitten calm, but there should never be enough space for them to escape. Always keep your windows locked, even if they are cracked a bit, so that curious paws don't lower them.

"Windows cracked (and *locked*) help keep kitties calm. Plus breaks for walks!"  @birchandluna

Whether or not your kitty is an experienced car traveler, accidents happen. If they end up getting carsick, keep calm & give lots of comfort, clean them up, and try to clean their carrier as best you can. In order to make clean up easier, pack wipes just in case, and line your car & their carrier with towels or pee pads that you can easily remove. Unless your kitty is seriously ill, carry on with your road trip & don't let it ruin those awesome adventure vibes.

How do I entertain my cat during the road trip?

A bored kitty is a loud kitty 😹 Bring their favorite toys, treats, and make sure to take plenty of rest stops so they can eat, stretch their legs, & be stimulated by the scenery along your drive! If your kitty likes looking out the window, position their bag so they can peer out & check on their whereabouts while you're on the road. Depending on how long your trip is, they will probably sleep a lot too! 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vincent_Dante_TheMaineCoons (@vincent_dante_themainecoons)

When You Arrive at the Destination

Yay! You did it. 

Reward your kitty with lots of treats & kisses, and give yourself a pat on the back for a road trip well done! And maybe take a nap 😽 💤

We hope you enjoyed these tips & experiences from our community 😽

Disclaimer: You know your cat best. Please use caution & travel with your kitty's safety as top priority! 

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How to Travel Long Distance With a Cat

Last Updated: May 30, 2021 References

This article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS . Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 32,107 times.

Are you anxious about traveling with your cat? Chances are, your cat is too! Traveling can be a stressful experience for you both if you haven't prepared for the journey. A little preparation can make traveling by car or plane calmer and much more comfortable. Eventually, you both might even enjoy traveling together.

Preparing to Travel

• When crossing state lines, you might only need a current Rabies vaccination with a tag and certificate. When crossing into other countries, the requirements vary depending on the country and region.

• You can order a customized collar at your local pet store or on the internet.

• When your cat is in a stressful situation, she may rapidly lose vitamins and nutrients. Herbal supplements can help replenish these, calming your cat.

• Trial runs will let you know how your cat responds to the sedative and whether you need to adjust the timing or dosage, before the trip.

• The more comfortable your cat is with its crate, the more comfortable they will feel in it while they are traveling.

Traveling By Car

• Keeping your cat in a crate will also prevent your cat from escaping through a window or door when the car is stopped. It will also keep your cat out of areas in the car where she could get stuck, like under one of the vehicle's seats.
• Before your big trip, try taking short rides around town with your cat to help get used to traveling in the crate. [6] X Research source

• Each time you stop for a break during your trip, offer your cat a small amount of water.

• Don't forget to pad the bottom of the crate with a towel or blanket to make your cat more comfortable during the trip. A small litter box can be added to the crate so that your cat can use the restroom as needed during travel. You might want to put pet pads down on the bottom of the crate, so if your cat misses the litter box, you don't have a mess.
• Your cat may enjoy privacy when using her litterbox, so keep the privacy flaps of the crate or carrier down. [9] X Research source

• If you find your cat won't use the litter box in her crate, try putting her on a harness with a leash. Let her get out of the car in order to eliminate.
• Never leave your cat alone in the car. If it's hot outside, your cat is likely to overheat, even with the windows cracked or open. If it's cold outside, your cat could become hypothermic while she waits for you to return.

Traveling By Plane

• Flying in the cargo hold can be extremely dangerous for some breeds of cat. For example, it's not recommended for cats with brachycephalic facial structures, or "smushed faces", like Persians. Their narrow nasal passages make it difficult to breathe in that area of the airplane. [12] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source

• You should also attach a 24-hour feeding schedule to your cat's carrier. This way, you cat can be taken care of if she's delayed in her travels. [13] X Research source

• A hard-shell carrier is preferred if your cat is traveling in the cargo hold area.

• If the temperatures are going to be extreme, many airlines won't allow your cat to fly in the cargo hold. This is another reason why it's important to check with the airline before you fly.

Expert Q&A

• Once you've reached your destination, let your cat check out her new surroundings from the safety of her crate. This way she can get a feel for the new sounds and smells of the area. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Talking to your cat while you drive or playing soft music can help drown out scary noises produced on busy roads. This can help calm her down if she's anxious about traveling. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.purina.co.uk/cats/behaviour-and-training/moving-and-travelling/travelling-with-your-cat
• ↑ https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/car-travel-tips
• ↑ http://traveltips.usatoday.com/calm-cat-travel-car-1605.html
• ↑ http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/traveling_tips_pets_ships_planes_trains.html
• ↑ http://www.peta.org/living/companion-animals/travel-tips/car-travel/
• ↑ http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/packing_for_pets.html?referrer=https://www.google.com/
• ↑ http://www.pettravel.com/passports_travel_with_cat.cfm

About this article

If you need to travel a long distance in a car with your cat, choose a sturdy, hard-shell crate that you can secure with a seatbelt in the back seat. Practice taking short trips around town with your cat so it gets used to traveling. The day of the big trip, don’t feed your cat for at least 2-3 hours before you get in the car so it doesn’t get an upset stomach. Put a soft blanket in the crate so the cat will be comfortable, but don’t put any food or water in the crate, or it could spill. Instead, offer your cat a small amount of water each time you stop for a break during the trip. Keep reading for tips from our veterinary reviewer on taking your cat on a plane trip! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Travel With Your Cat in The Car (and Help Your Kitty Stress Less!)

It doesn't have to be so stressful for you or for your cat.

Janelle is a cat mum to two resident adventure kitties, Lyra and Atlas, and numerous cat and kitten fosters. Janelle and her furry family enjoy filling their days with hiking, kayaking, and seeking out the best cat-friendly destinations around the Pacific Northwest. You can follow Janelle, her adventure kitties, and adoptable fosters at @paws_pdx.

Do Cats Like Car Rides?

Why is my cat panting in the car.

• How to Travel Long Distances
• Travel Gear

Cats have their own way of saying , "No thanks, I'll stay home!" From excessive meowing to hiding at the sight of their carrier—there is something about a trip in the car that many felines often dislike.

If you're like most of us cat lovers, you might be wondering if there are any kitties on earth who actually enjoy riding in the car. With all the hiding and meowing that happens ahead of a vet visit, it's tough to even imagine a world in which cats are willing to get in the car, let alone enjoy it. But pet pros say that with enough positive associations with the car and their carrier, it's possible for cats to actually learn to like an occasional ride here and there. With a little training and some help from his favorite treat, your kitty could be on their way to co-pilot status. So buckle up, because we've teamed up with two cat behavioral experts to determine how to make those wild rides just a little more enjoyable for everyone.

Before we try to modify a kitty's behavior, it's important to understand it. When considering why so many cats have an averse reaction to trips in the car, think about their experience with that action. Many times, a car ride is associated with a dreaded trip to the veterinarian. This negative association—combined with the motion of the car and all the new sights, sounds, and smells that go along with it—can cause a total sensory overload for your cat. This may be why your feline friend harbors her distaste for traveling in the car, explains Shannen McNee , CCBC at The Toronto Humane Society. But it doesn't have to be this way! McNee says that a little bit of training can make a trip in the car a less stressful experience.

So, how do you train your cat to like the car, or at least tolerate a ride to the vet? LeeAnna Buis , CFTBS at Feline Behavior Solutions, says training your cat for car rides starts inside your home. "Your cat may actually be reacting to the carrier more than the car," Buis explains. With a few desensitization strategies and positive reinforcement that incorporates high-value rewards (like favorite treats or toys), the carrier can become a safe, fun space for your cat.

To help your cat love his carrier, McNee suggests a few simple steps:

• Leave the carrier out so it becomes a part of your cat's familiar environment. Make it a cozy space by placing his favorite blanket inside.
• Encourage your cat to spend time in his carrier by rewarding him with treats and feeding meals inside the carrier. Playing with your kitty inside the carrier is a great idea, too!
• Once your cat starts relaxing in his carrier, close the door for short amounts of time followed by rewarding him with a tasty treat. Gradually increase the amount of time the door is closed.
• Once he is comfortable in the carrier with the door closed, start picking the carrier up for short amounts of time. Where will your first trip be? A walk around your house with him safely inside the carrier!

When your kitty successfully associates his carrier with positive interactions and as a cozy place to take a nap, Buis recommends slowly introducing him to a car ride inside of his carrier. "Start by just sitting in the car in the driveway," Buis explains. "After a few sessions of this, start the car. Move on to letting it run for a few minutes, then backing out of the driveway and pulling back in, and so on."

Lastly, Buis says to pay special attention to reward your cat for the desired behavior. "Never underestimate the power of positive reinforcement," Buis says. If a car ride comes with lots of verbal praise and treats, your kitty will be more likely to want to repeat it another time.

While cooling down is the most widely recognized reason for panting in animals, there are other reasons your cat may be panting while traveling in the car. One of those reasons, McNee says, is anxiety . To calm down your cat in the car, McNee has a few suggestions:

• Put some of your cat's familiar scent in the car by rubbing your cat's cheeks with socks or small cloths, then put them in the car.
• Play your cat's favorite tunes . That's right, there's actually music created specifically to calm cats (and it's quite soothing for humans, too). Composer David Teie created Music for Cats , an album of classical, species-specific music that scientific studies have shown actually reduce stress for kitties.
• Spray a calming pheromone like Feliway inside the car and carrier that mimics the natural essence that mama cats give off when their young are nursing.

How to Travel With a Cat in a Car Long Distances

When it comes to long car rides with your cat, Buis has three words of advice: practice, practice, practice. "Start well in advance of your trip with mini car rides and slowly work up to longer and longer periods in the car as your cat gets comfortable," Buis says.

McNee and Buis recommend planning each and every stop along your journey. "Call ahead to ensure the places you plan to stay are cat-friendly and plan your route to include regular water and elimination breaks," McNee recommends.

Cat Car Travel Gear You Might Need

Testing out your gear before a long-distance car ride isn't a bad idea either. Here's a few suggestions of the gear you might need for your kitty's next road trip.

1. Cat Car Carrier

Your cat's carrier should be large enough that he can stand up and reposition. "Look for carriers designed specifically to be strapped or belted-in for security," Buis recommends.

2. Cat Car Harness and Seatbelt Loop

"If your cat is harness trained for adventures and enjoys car rides, get a harness with a seatbelt loop to secure him," McNee suggests.

3. Car Seat Cover

A car seat cover is the best way to keep your car clean and free of pet hair, kitty puke, muddy paws, and anything else your cat drags in.

4. Calming Medication

"If your cat is prone to motion sickness or anxiety, talk to your vet because they may recommend medications that can help," McNee says.

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We Drove Cross-Country With Our Cat (and Nobody Died)

Here's how we survived with our limbs intact.

“Dogs have owners; cats have employees.” So goes the conventional wisdom.

Vagabondish is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Read our disclosure .

So, when we decided to take our “boss”, Lizzi, on a three-month road trip of the U.S. East Coast, people told us we were crazy. They weren’t wrong. Frankly, we had no clue how to travel with a cat in a car long distance.

Anyone who’s ever tried taking their feline for even a five-minute car ride knows the struggle. Now, imagine bringing them on a seven-hour drive. It can be … stressful . But, our current living situation left us no choice. So, we prepped and researched and did the best we could to make things as comfortable for everyone as possible.

Fast-forward to the middle of our road trip. We’ve been traveling with our calico kitty for almost two months now, and we’ve learned quite a bit about what works. Here are our favorite tips for keeping your (and your cat’s) sanity on a long-term road trip without anyone ending up in the hospital.

How to Travel with a Cat in a Car Long Distance (with a Litter Box)

Prepare for your road trip with a dress rehearsal.

Of course, the best way to see how your cat will react on a long distance car ride is to actually put them in the car and go somewhere. It’s one thing to drive them quickly to the vet and back. But, you want to see how they’ll react on a long distance road trip.

We took a few short trips near home to see how Lizzi dealt with it. Almost any cat will be stressed, especially at first. Lizzi was no different. We let her out of the carrier in the car, she paced, she panted, she cried. She wasn’t happy. But after about an hour, she began to calm down.

Now, she still paces, pants, and cries on travel days but only for a short while. Then, after about 20 minutes, she usually settles down on top of our belongings in the back seat and just chills out. Or, at least tries to chill out.

Shop the Right Cat Carrier or Cat Crate

Most cat owners rarely consider their cat’s carrier or crate. It’s not something most people use often. But, your cat will likely spend more time in and out of it on the road than ever before. Make sure it’s sized properly for your kitty.

We had a soft-sided mesh carrier which worked fine. But, we ultimately switched to this hard-sided carrier with a removable fluffy liner, and Lizzi is much happier with it. We bring it into our Airbnbs and she’ll oftentimes curl up inside of it and sleep.

Of course, depending on your cat’s temperament, you may not need a cat carrier at all. We probably don’t as Lizzi is fine being picked up, held, and carried. But, we opted to use one anyway for the added security of knowing that she won’t get spooked once we stop somewhere and run off.

Take Your Cat to the Vet

This one’s a no-brainer. Before leaving home, make a stop at your local vet. Make sure your kitty is healthy enough for travel. Shots up to date? Any obvious health signs that should be investigated before hitting the road? Do you need to load up on prescription meds to last the duration of your trip? Any special dietary needs to tend to (e.g. does she need special food that may be hard to find away from home)?

Get Your Cat Microchipped

Aside from occasional breaks on our apartment balcony, Lizzi has been an indoor cat her whole life. I’m not sure she’d last ten minutes outdoors. Either something would eat her (she’s awfully plump) or someone would steal her (she’s far too pretty). Or she’d just plain wander off and get lost.

This last reason is why we paid to have her microchipped. The service is available at most vet offices these days, and it costs around $50. But, the rice-grain-sized chip isn’t even noticeable by her or us. And it’s serious peace of mind on the off-chance she goes missing while we’re on the road.

Find Familiar Objects for Your Cat’s Road Trip

Cats are creatures of habit. Making their environment as comfortable and familiar as possible is key. We packed Lizzi’s favorite blankets so we could lay them out at Airbnbs for her to curl up on (this has the added benefit of protecting our hosts’ furniture). Anything — toys, chews, scratching posts, etc. — that already has your cat’s scent on it is a good thing.

Slow Travel: Long Days, Less Days

Cats adapt slowly to new environments. They need to get their bearings, orient themselves, and ease into feeling comfortable with the new smells, sights, and sounds around them. This is especially true when you take your cat on a long distance road trip, and their new world becomes the backseat of a car moving at highway speeds.

For our road trip, we opted for fewer travel days but each day is a bit longer. We found about six hours is Lizzi’s max in the car. Any longer and she gets very stir crazy and irritable. Moving around less also means that we’re staying in each destination a bit longer which gives her more time to acclimate to each new living space along the way.

Keep Calm and Carry … Cat Treats

You may think you know your cat. But stress can make cats behave in (even more) mysterious ways. Lizzi is pretty chill, especially by cat standards. But she hates — hates — being in her cat carrier. And in the car. And especially in her cat carrier in the car .

Before recent trips to the vet, we discovered half of an all-natural calming treat helped ease her state of a mind. We’re not keen on medicating her to the point where she’s “stoned,” but we’re less keen on her being needlessly terrified for six hours. We found those same treats help relax her for car rides. Especially during the first 1-2 hours where she’s likely to be the most stressed.

Also, if you have any issues giving your kitty medication, we highly recommend Greenies Feline Pill Pockets . Lizzi needs a pill every day to keep her hyperthyroidism in check, but we could never get her to take it. We tried crushing it up in her wet food, but then we never knew how much of the medication she was actually getting. These Pill Pockets were a game-changer!

How to Take a Roadside Lunch Break

We were positive Lizzi would have no interest in food while on the road trip. But, since we have to stop every day to give her her medication, we found it an ideal time to attempt a bit of dry food as well. We’ll typically stop half-way through our travel day to grab some lunch for ourselves. This is when we’ll pour a small serving of dry food into her familiar food dish and let her snack a bit. She rarely eats much when we stop, but something is better than nothing.

Water has been another story. She really won’t drink in the car. But, most of her daily water intake comes from eating wet food (which we give her in the morning and at night), so that doesn’t seem to be an issue.

… and a Pee Break Too

Of course, the most challenging part of long-distance road tripping with a cat is how to handle the dreaded bathroom break. Dogs are easy; the world is their bathroom. But cats need the right setting: the perfect lighting, some votive candles, Yanni music, and, of course, a litter box.

To be honest, we had no idea how we’d handle this in the beginning. We wung it for the first few weeks, and hoped for the best. We figured she doesn’t pee more than 1-2 times a day at home anyway so a few hours in the car would be a cakewalk for her.

Then an idea hit us … our clothes were packed into a single, large suitcase in the backseat. It was easy enough to stop in a shady spot at a truck stop or service plaza, then pull the entire suitcase out and leave it next to the car. In the space left by the now-removed suitcase, we put a disposable litter box and poured a bit of litter in the bottom. To our amazement, Lizzi the (now expert) Travel Cat hopped in and peed almost immediately!

Once she’s done, I wrap a plastic litter box liner around the entire litter box and stow the whole thing back in her travel tote. Then, I put the suitcase back in the backseat, and we’re on our way.

Keep It Cool

It goes without saying that you should never leave an animal in a sealed-up car, period. On travel days, one of us is always in the car with Lizzi with the air conditioner running. So she stays calm, cool, and safe.

… and Keep Your Cool

Like dogs, cats naturally soak up stress from their bosses (er … owners). If you’re wigging out and screaming in traffic, your cat will sense that and, in turn, stress out more. Maintain your composure, talk softly to them occasionally to remind them you’re there, and soothe them as best you can.

Some cats may want extra affection while traveling which is why it’s ideal to have a co-pilot, while others may want to be left alone. You just need to see what works best for your kitty.

Clean-Up Duty

One of the dirtiest parts about traveling with a cat is clean-up duty. No matter where you’re staying — at a hotel, Airbnb , or campground — you’re going to want to clean up after your cat at checkout. We packed a washable rubberized mat to place under Lizzi’s litter box. It’s a snap to pick up and shake out over the trash when we’re ready to leave. Plus, we can hose it down in the shower if it gets a little funky.

We also packed an arsenal of cleaning products including this ultra-portable, stand-up Shark Rocket vacuum and a Swiffer kit. Since we’re mainly staying in Airbnbs for this road trip, we want to be the best guests we can be. And that means leaving our accommodations better than we found them.

Settle In and Settle Down

When we get where we’re going, our routine is to bring the cat and all her accouterments (which is a shocking amount of things!) inside before doing anything else. Lizzi is so habituated to life on the road now that, once we stop and I call her to her carrier in the back seat, she climbs right in.

Once inside, we set up her water, food, and bathroom immediately so she can start settling in as quickly as possible. Then we tend to all the other things we need to do at each stop.

The Bottom Line

There are, of course, no set rules for how to travel with a cat in a car. Your mileage with these tips may vary. Dogs are more predictable, laid-back, and easy to travel with in general. Cats are temperamental, finicky creatures by nature. Some, none, or all of these tips may work for you. If you’re heading on a long-distance road trip with your cat, I hope for your sake it’s smooth sailing.

It’s all still a work-in-progress for us. As we’re gearing up for an even longer fall road trip, we’re keen to hear other travelers’ experiences. So, fellow pet owners, what are your tips for how to travel with a cat in a car? Let us know in the comments below what did and didn’t work for you!

After two short months on the road, it seems Lizzi has become the model of how to travel with a cat in a car long distance!

Packing List for Traveling with Your Cat in a Car

These are the best cat-friendly products that we relied on most during our long-distance road trip.

Petlinks Purr-FECT Paws Cat Litter Mat

A flexible, easy-to-clean rubber mat that helps reduce scattering of litter — great for Airbnb stays!

Kitty’s WonderBox Disposable Litter Box

These were probably the single best thing we bought for our road trip with Lizzi! They help control odor, they’re ultra-durable, and they don’t leak. In our experience, each one easily lasted a few weeks, so a 3-pack was good for 1-2 months of travel.

Foldable Travel Cat Carrier – Front Door Plastic Collapsible Carrier

We upgraded from her soft-sided carrier to this hard-sided one. It folds down semi-flat and it’s super easy to wipe clean inside and out. Plus, it came with a soft , comfortable pad that Lizzi loved to sleep on in the car.

Purina Tidy Cats LightWeight Instant Action Clumping Cat Litter

Lizzi’s tote of road trip essentials was surprisingly large! This ultra-light cat litter helped keep the weight of her “stuff” to a minimum. Plus, it works great!

Thank you for sharing your travels with your cat. I found it very helpful for our upcoming trip in our SUV to North Carolina with our 2 cats.

Thank you! I’m thrilled you found the post helpful. Traveling with a cat is infinitely more difficult than with a dog. But, we still loved our trip!

Best of luck with your upcoming journey!

Bless you! I am in the process of driving 16 hours with my cat – and your “how to make a car litter box” saved me many anxious minutes.

Things I can add:

If you are traveling alone, gas stations are chill about you having the cat in a carrier. Usually.

Pet stores are your best friend because you can use the restroom and water your cat and let them run around the restroom.

If your cat is placid enough, you can get them to use a leash and harness. That harness was very helpful when the cat tried to make a break for it out of the car during roadside stops. The leash was great too for those spots, and she was able to stretch her legs at the pet stores on her leash.

I got one of those car seats for small dogs and tethered her to it. She loved it, except for when she wanted to be sleeping in her carrier in the backseat. She had to be in her car seat for city traffic and the drive throughS LOVED it.

Thank you for this! My husband and I are planning a move to Missouri next year and the most stressful part of the entire thing has been thinking of how the heck we’re going to transport our cat. This definitely makes it feel more manageable.

Hey Vanessa, have you made your big move yet? I’m curious how you got along on the road with your kitty?

Let us know! -Mike

Hi Vanessa, I am currently in Florida and unfortunately have to move back to Missouri sometime between June and July. I saw you mention you were traveling to MO. Just wanted to get your feedback as well. I’m not sure how long of a drive you have. My drive is between 17-23 hrs. Unforatunly my cat is 16 years old and panics in the car(don’t mean to get grafic) just across town to the vet and were he panics so badly he gets automatic diahria, wets himself and goes into a full on panic mode. He’s getting up there in age and has some physical things I worry that could become worse if he’s under this extreme amount of stressful long hrs in a car. Any other tips or remedies that may help my fur baby would be appreciated greatly! Please email at [email protected] Thank you again!

Hi Vanessa,

Small world! We are moving next week from California to Missouri, with our two sister cats. They spend the whole time meowing when we drive to the vets, so I can only imagine what it will be like driving 1600 miles. Good luck on your move!

I needed to read this! Like Vanessa, My hubby and I are planning a move from Spokane Washington to either Vegas or Phoenix with our 2 teenage kids, 2 dogs and 3 cats. By far the biggest stress for me is the cats…I have seriously cried I am so worried! We have a couple of months before we leave, but I feel much better knowing that we will all survive!!

Hi Mike, I am currently in Florida and unfortunately have to move back to Missouri sometime between June and July. I saw you someone comment about moving to Missouri so I asked for their feedback as well. You had alot of great useful advice. I desperate to figure out how I can make this transition easy for my fur baby. My drive is between 17-23 hrs. Unforatunly my cat is 16 years old and has always been a sensitive cat when it comes to change especially panics in the car(don’t mean to get grafic) just across town to the vet and he immediately panics so badly he gets automatic diahria, wets himself, his heart is racing and goes into a full on panic mode. He’s getting up there in age and has some physical things I worry that could become worse if he’s under this extreme amount of stressful long hrs in a car. Any other tips or remedies that may help my fur baby would be appreciated greatly! Please email at [email protected] Thank you again! Sincerely, Molly Mabry

Hi guys! I haven’t made the move yet. Monday is the big day. I had plans to visit a vet and maybe see about a sedative and getting Ricky microchipped, but this move has kept us so busy and now we’re down to the wire. We definitely have a harness in hand and we picked up some CBD in AZ on a recent visit, so hopefully that helps. I’m sure Ricky will freak out at first, but on the trips to the vet we had to make he does much better outside of the box than in it. And obviously for such a long trip I don’t want to keep him trapped in the carrier the entire time. We’ll be driving from CA to MO, so we’re going to do our best to power through. My biggest worry is him peeing on stuff in the car. He’s had some issues recently with his urination, so we got a bunch of plastic to line everything. Anyway, I’ll let you guys know how it went!

I wish I had seen this in time to offer some suggestions to Vanessa but I hope I can be of service to others who may be planning a long roadtrip with a geriatric cat! We moved from Michigan to Florida in 1996 with an 18 year old cat who had never traveled more than 12 miles in a car (yowling the entire way). The vet was hesitant to offer medication due to her age, and she was not a fan of catnip, so she was entirely without chemical calming. We were traveling in a Jeep Cherokee and towing a small U-Haul, so she had the entire back end to herself. We borrowed a large dog crate for her accomodations and outfitted it with a temporary litter box (disposables were hard to find back then) I fashioned from a small cardboard box with sides about 6 inches high with one section about 8 inches wide cut down to 5 inches to allow her easier access. I slipped this inside a large garbage bag and filled it about 2 inches deep with litter and cleaned the box at every stop. The box was secured to the bottom of the dog crate with double sided tape and litter added as needed. We left a small amount of dry food in a dish for her to graze on but limited wet food and water to when we were stopped. This worked out well for her but other cats might want to have it available at all times. I felt it important for her to be able to move around but not be “loose” in the car for our 1200 mile journey. I kept old towels for padding in the crate and planned to swap them out if she had “accidents” but she never did, although she did make enough noise the first few hours that we could have been suspected of committng murder. We only stayed overnight at one pet-friendly motel and took the entire dog crate inside; she came out of the crate, explored the room, went back in and had her dinner, and promptly went to sleep, happy to be in her “home”. As a bonus, when we got to our new home in Florida, we left the dog crate set up in the corner of the utility room (with the “real” little box next to it) and since it was already a familiar space for her, we feel it helped her settle in more quickly. She spent a lot of time in the crate the first few days, venturing out to explore a bit more each day.

We’re you in a car or suv…please describe make and model?

Hey Dale, We drove a 2006 Toyota 4Runner — a mid-sized SUV.

I’m moving from MO to FL in a few months, about a 20 hour drive. I am planning on stopping for the night half way through, but I worry about my two cats on the actual drive. How do they use the bathroom and eat or drink?

Hi guys! It’s been a few months, sorry, but we made it to MO in one piece and Ricky loves his new home. For our setup we situated his litter box between other boxes (as we were moving) so that the box didn’t slide around and situated his carrier behind the seat and made it so he could go in and out if he wanted to. He stayed in the carrier most of the time, but he got a little brave and started walking around and sitting on my lap in the passenger seat. He got a little freaked out a few times and we had to stop him from climbing around by my husband’s feet (he was driving), but mostly he did okay. We had his food bowl in the carrier, but he didn’t eat much or use the litter box at all while we were driving. When we stopped at the hotel for the night he ate and went to the bathroom like normal. We did try CBD to calm him down, but it didn’t really matter since he didn’t eat in the car and we mix it in his food. ?? So all in all, I don’t know if I really have any tips, but I thought I’d share how it went. He did well, but he’s still not a fan of being in the car. ?

Great article. We adopted a “wild” cat that wandered up to our cabin in remote Colorado several years ago. When it was time to head South, we loaded our now somewhat tame cat into a carrier and put her in the back of our Ford Explorer. That lasted about 2 hours. I could not turn the radio volume up high enough. We let her out of the carrier and after an hour she went under the front seat, and stayed quiet for most of the day. A few things we have learned over the years: Always take two sets of car keys. On warm days, we leave the AC running when we stop for gas and/or a break. After fueling, we park out a little ways where it is not obvious the car is running, and one of us has an eye on the car. We always do a scan to see where she is before we open the door. After a few trips, the car becomes the safe haven, and she has had no interest in getting out, but with a cat, you just never know. We put a litter box on the back floorboard. She rarely uses it, but it is there in case. Water – we always have a small container on the other floorboard. Food is withheld, as she won’t eat in the car. Our trip is 12.5 hours on a good day. Getting ready to do another road trip in a few weeks, after nine months of no travel. Hope the now very tame cat remembers the protocol!

I’m amazed everything went so well… My cat barely “survives” a drive to the vet, lol. You must have a really special and patient kind of cat!

My daughter and her partner are moving 9 hours away and I have agreed to drive their 3 cats to them. I’ve got a Toyota Corolla. I was thinking of putting the back seats down, using a large carrier I have, and fashioning a tunnel of sorts that would allow them extra space plus room for a Kitty litter box. (I considered renting a larger vehicle but it’s quite pricey, especially as this will be at Christmas time.) I know this will be a very stressful drive so I found this post and all of the comments to be very helpful. Thank you very much.

Erin, that all sounds great! Nine hours isn’t *too* bad, even for particularly finicky cats. I’m sure they’ll be fine.

One other thing you might consider is a removable rubber mat or thick moving blanket to lay down to protect your car’s carpeting. We learned the hard way that kitty very easily misses her box when it’s in the backseat. Even though it was only a little bit of pee, that smell is incredibly difficult to get out of automotive carpeting!

Best of luck with the drive!

Hello to you. I will be attempting a drive with three cats this coming spring. How did it work out for you? I have a Murano SUV was making of putting the backseat down to and doing as you thought with the large carrier. Also anyone else any advice? I am doing a very long drive from New York to Florida ? I am extremely worried. One of my cats is a Maine coon. The Maine Coon is the best with behavior but I worry for all of them. I want this to be a safe journey for them.

We are moving to Kansas from Idaho in July and need to take 3 cats and a dog in the car with us. We do not want the cats wandering around the car while we drive. Any suggestions?

oh my gosh, thank you for making this blog post. i’m contemplating relocating from kansas to maine with my own two indoor hairballs. it’s enough to make me just reconsider or worse, fly them.

hi. do you have any pictures or videos of your travels with Lizi? thanks a lot. :) best for you

Many thanks for your article! I have a 9 hour move from North Carolina to Indiana at the end of the summer, and it’ll be the longest my cat has ever been in the car by far. I’ve been scouring the internet for information on how to transport her safely and comfortably. This has been very helpful.

Hey Meredith — That’s great to hear! I’m happy we can help in any way.

I’m sure you and kitty will be just fine =)

So we are planning on moving back to California soon, but in between we have actually taken up bringing our cat on every trip with us. I have gotten him microchipped just in case and he’s gotten so much better in the car just from doing it multiple times. We exclusively use pet friendly AirBnBs instead of dealing with hotels, but I recommend contacting the host before you book because we have encountered hosts that mean ‘only dogs’ when they post ‘pet friendly’. If you’re cool sleeping in the car at rest areas, that’s what we’ve been doing on the drive to and from our destination. We usually keep him in the carrier for a little while after we start driving and then let him roam. Just make sure to lock your windows! While the car is in motion, he typically doesn’t eat but will devour food when we stop for the night. For the parts where we’re exclusively in the car, we’ve taken to getting him food in plastic containers because they are just easier to deal with. Most of the daytime driving he will spend under a seat or tucked under something. He likes to roam around the car at night. We just have to make sure he doesn’t go roaming on the floor on the driver side!

Anyway, we just really enjoy traveling with our cat and it’s so much nicer having him with us than boarding him.

Thank you for Lizzi story. This was extremely helpful for me. Now Penny and I can do our move from Maryland to Rocky Mount, NC.

Sincerely, Regal Cameron

Hello to anyone who is reading this. My boyfriend of (28 yrs) & I are getting ready to move from California to Tennessee in about a week. We have 3 very freakish cats. The 1st is Mister Mister, he is pretty old and has some issues with his back legs and so he does not walk all to well, his legs will sometimes just give out. So he’s not real stable when he walks. The 2nd is Misses Misses (or princess), she is probably 4-5 yrs younger and we have had them both since they were little tiny kittens not quite old enough to be away from there mother. The 3rd is Kaia our newest cat, so she is the youngest (the baby) at probably around 2 yrs old or so. Her and misses don’t get along. Kaia is scared of her and misses likes to chase her every chance she gets, because she’s very jealous. They are all skittish, shy, and scare and freak out easily. I need some help because I’m so worried about driving all that way and them stressing out really bad. I know I will probably be stressing enough for everyone though. Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!

I am planning a trip in the future from Indiana to Massachusetts and this article was very helpful. I am very lucky that my Luna loves her carrier. I keep it open and put it next to my bed because she sleeps in it. Also, she doesn’t make a peep when she is in her carrier in the car. My question Is how do I keep her from trying to escape if I need to leave the car for a moment. I don’t want to leave her locked in her carrier while traveling

Thank you so much for the tips! I’m curious on how to keep the cat from the driver side while roaming. Also, was it difficult to find “cat friendly” lodging? My daughter and her husband are doing a travel job where they move every couple of months and Inthink I’m more worried than they are!!

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Love of a Cat

(Formerly Natural Cat Care Blog)

Traveling long-distance with cats: tips & resources for the road

You may have seen images of cats who go sailing with their human  or heard about blogging couples who seem to effortlessly move around the world  with their felines.

But most of us live with indoor cats who would sooner pass on a fresh trout dinner than step one paw into a car.

Looking at the possibility of a future cross-country move ourselves, I have been researching and weighing the options. I’ve collected quite a few real-world stories, tips and resources and I want to share them with you, should you find yourself in a similar predicament.

While I’ve looked into the option of plane travel with cats, there are hesitations I have about it (another article for another time), so I’ve been focusing on road travel info and that’s what I’m sharing with you today!

Long-distance driving with cats: first-hand reports

Cat lover Melissa Anthimides-Hellon has gone on many road trips with her husband, kids, and cats. Including three moves. She says:

“The more you travel with your cats the more they get accustomed to it and even like it! We also travel with small children so we sort of have a plan in place to make sure everyone is relaxed and happy during the trip. Everyone gets Rescue Remedy before leaving and during the trip we play mellow music in the back seat so the kids and kitties can snooze and relax, it drowns out the scary traffic noises too.”

Another woman drove her two indoor cats across country, staying in hotels for almost a week. She was quite apprehensive ahead of time, but did several things that worked out well, including:

• Transported her cats together in one large crate because they comfort each other (this may not always be the case with your cats). We are looking at the  Pet Tube Car Kennel   – a reader said this spacious tube, which takes up two seats, worked well for moving her two cats across country together. Apparently the handles and flat foam insert are sold separately, so keep that in mind.
• Put a small disposable Nature’s Miracle litter box  (scent-neutralizing), a small hanging water cup , and a blanket (that smelled like home) in a large crate.
• Sprayed Feliway in the crate each morning before traveling.
• Put a towel over the crate so the cats felt cozy.
• Put a few drops of Rescue Remedy in their water each day.

She said, “My cats came through with flying colors! And to think I was so worried!

Several other cat lovers also mentioned Feliway helping with road travel and we plan to use it. The one caveat with Feliway is that, for some reason, it doesn’t work on every single cat, so one should try it at home first.

Also, it helps to get your cats used to carriers  and drives in the car that don’t end in a vet visit.  Take some short, sweet trips around a block or two in the months before your trip. Reward with treats and kindness. If you haven’t gotten into crate/carrier training yet, you’ll want to watch this short sweet SPCA video on it. The video is for kittens, but it applies to all cats. Also, keep the crate out and about for several days, making it a cozy and enjoyable place.

Cat-friendly hotels: they exist!

Melissa’s travelin’ cat family has had their best luck with La Quinta Inn and Days Inn , but especially La Quinta because you don’t have to stay in a smoking room and the rooms are clean. They require a pet deposit, but it’s reasonable. She says you’ll encounter other pet people there too, which can be fun.

Several other cat lovers recommended La Quinta Inn as well.

Motel 6 also was recommended, especially for the budget-minded. You’ll find them all over the U.S. and they were described by one cat-carrying family as “suprisingly clean.”

If you want to go a bit more upscale, you can enjoy a stay with your cat at pet-friendly Marriott Hotels .

Need even more options? I’ve got some good resources:

• Official Pet Hotels is a great resource locating all kinds of pet-friendly hotels in the US and they have a UK site as well.
• There is also a handy list of Pet Friendly Hotel Chains here .

[highlight] Hotel tip: Scent is a key source of information for cats. One cat caretaker shared the tip of bringing a blanket or comforter from home to put on the bed in the hotel before you bring the cats in. She said it helped her cats feel calmer in each new setting. When your cat emerges from his carrier timidly, the more smells of home he picks up, the better.[/highlight]

What about RV’s?

A couple cat parents said that RV travel with cats worked well for them. One woman who moved five cats from the midwest to California said the cats were content to roam around the large RV they rented. While this appeals to me, I’m sure some will say that any travel without a carrier is risky. Here’s an intriguing article by a couple with a lot of experience and advice to offer on RV’ing with cats.

And…more helpful Do’s & Don’t’s for long-distance cat travel

In addition to the tips listed above, there are several things we all need to know before taking a long road trip with our feline friends:

***DONT’S***

DON’T give a sedative!  Veterinarians strongly caution against sedating your cat, as this can cause dehydration and could also hamper your cat’s breathing and increase risk of heart problems.  (Do try a natural homeopathic aid like Rescue Remedy , as recommended by cat travelers above, instead.)

DON’T use essential oils. While we humans love aromatherapy, and dogs may be ok with it too, essential oils are toxic cats – possibly through breathing, not just through ingestion.

DON’T leave cats alone in parked vehicle. In the sun, cars are like greenhouses: within minutes, the temperature climbs to dangerously high levels.

DO use a cat-safe collar with ID that includes your name and cell number on it. Also smart: include your home address, back-up telephone number, and even a temporary travel tag with contact info about where you can be reached while traveling. Because I know from experience that a cat’s collar can get caught on something and trap them dangerously, I look for collars like Elasta Cat  that stretch if your cat is caught on something so they can back out of the collar if it’s being pulled.

DO bring plenty of fresh water . You’ll want to refill the cat travel water bowl regularly as the water may spill or dry out quickly and hydration is essential to your cat’s health, especially during stressful transitions. Note that wet food helps them stay hydrated and dry food has the opposite effect.

DO bring healthy-ish treats your cat likes . Rewards bring happiness. We like  Halo Liv a Little’s treats  because they are grain-free and have very simple, natural ingredients.

DO take Cat Behaviorist Marilyn Krieger’s good advice on preparing your cat’s carrier : “ Before transporting, prepare the cat carrier. Label it with your name and contact information. Additionally, tape to the carrier copies of your cat’s vaccination records along with information about medical issues and medications the cat might need. Place soft towels that have your scent on them along with your cat’s favorite toy inside to help comfort her during the trip.”

Keep the family together: moving with cats

When I say family, I don’t just mean you and your humans, I mean you and your feline family members too. It’s sad when people are not bonded enough to their animals to want to keep taking care of them even when they need to move. Ideally, adoption is forever, so I hope some of this cat transport info I’ve put together will make a move feel less daunting. It certainly has helped me.

Aside the from the road travel part of the puzzle, if you are moving with cats, I’ve got good stuff on that here:  Tips for Moving with Cats: Timeline + Checklist   .

If you have any of your own tips and stories , you know I want to hear them in the comments below!

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Love to hear your thoughtful thoughts leave a reply... cancel reply, 18 comments.

Wow i was looking for some tips like these and i found this article. Thanks a lot.

I’m now planning an RV journey across North America, and I’ll be taking my three cats with me. I thought I was crazy at first, but after doing some study, it appears that RVing and road trips with cats are both doable and pleasant!

I’m learning so much here! Thanks! I’ll be making a 15-hr trip with 5 cats in July. I really hate the thought of them being cooped up for so long, but I’m nervous about letting them out of their carriers during the trip. I’m afraid the moment I open the car door, they’ll bolt. So…is it cruel to leave them in their carriers for the entire 15 hrs? It seems to be the safest thing to do, but I don’t want to make what will already be a torturous trip for them even worse. Rescue Remedy, car window shades, treats are already in the plan. And the harp music is a great idea!

Also, should I feed them at all during the trip? Or just snacks? Or nothing at all? Water? And I guess I should just put wee-wee- pads in the carriers and just change the pads if needed.

We’ve been planning this move for a year now and it’s getting close and I am, by far, worried more about the cats than anything else.

Thanks for reading!

We’re not a cat lover but we hope these tips work well for other pets. Thank for sharing these tips.

I am enjoying while reading the detailed review, its good enough to understand

When my husband and I travel, we usually have one of us sit in the back seat with Gabby, and that does the trick. She used to be super nervous about travel, but having one of us with her eases it and manages to sleep through most trips.

What a great idea, and how sweet. Thanks for sharing.

Had a cat who was tolerant of travel and would use his carrier for naps at home when I would leave it out. I got so spoiled at travel with him and miss him so much since he crossed the Rainbow Bridge. Currently have two cats who HATE carriers, and cars and are quite vocal in their objections. That is, of course after locating them in the far corner under whatever they can find to hide under. It seems the sight of a suitcase is anathema to them both. Have had to travel with them several times and have an upcoming move to make. I do take a towel they have used for snoozing and “wipe” doorways, cabinets, and furniture legs to spread their scent before I let them loose in the area. Both of these guys like to “sniff” their surroundings and this seems to work well for them. I use toys they like but they don’t use litter or consume anything during traveling time, only when we arrive. Best wishes to everyone traveling with one, or more, cats. May your trips be quiet and your arrivals and departures safe.

I’m currently planning a road trip across North America in a motorhome, and I’m taking my 3 cats with me. At first I thought I was insane but after extensive research is appears RVing and road trips with cats is totally possible and enjoyable!

I find that playing classical music — and especially harp — has an amazing ability to calm my cats during travel!

Thanks for sharing so much travel info! Like another reader, our cat won’t drink or eat or use the litter box while the car is moving. She will sometimes eat a bit when we stop for a break, but not always. Our first road trip was extremely traumatic due to my good intentions but inherent idiocy. We had been in the car about 6 1/2 hours & I felt bad about my baby being confined in such a small space for so long. I attached a leash to her collar and set her down by a tree in the parking lot of a restaurant. She freaked out, and as she pulled and tugged, her collar slipped off her neck and she ran under another car. Parked close to the street. And even climbed up under the hood…. I cannot describe my level of panic, thinking she’d run away, tagless, and I’d never see her again. Fortunately we were able to retrieve her, but lesson learned – I never let her out of the car now unless it’s to carry her, in her carrier, into a building.

I’ll also share that the one time we stayed at a hotel, my cat was so freaked out by all the smells in the room that she spent the night huddled between the headboard and the wall. If I even need to stay with her in a hotel again, I think I will start her in the bathroom and see how she does. It might be best for her to stay in her carrier the whole time. She did seem relieved the next morning when we finally lured her out from behind the bed and immediately placed her in her carrier. If it helps, I’ll say that ours is an *only cat* and came from a home where another cat was bullying her.

Finally, I’d like to share that after much trial and error, I finally found an AWESOME CAT SAFETY COLLAR. And no, I’m in no way associated with these companies. I just want other cats to be as protected and comfortable as mine. So, the collar itself is a Beastie Band. They are stretchy, very soft, easy to trim and re-size, and have super strong Velcro closures. (Plus they come in the cutest patterns ever!) I myself order them from Boomerang Tags, because B.T. make ID tags that slide onto the beastie bands, and my cat hates hanging tags. Both the tags and the collars hold up great. Because my cat is indoor/outdoor, she must have ID on her. I tried so many other collars, but either she quickly released the safety catch, or they were scratchy, or the tags bothered her, or they didn’t stretch and I was concerned about possible choking… The combination of the Beastie Band with the Boomerang Tag has been a godsend. We have happily used them for about 3 years now. I ordered two sets of tags and collars because my kitty used to regularly lose her old collars, but only once has she returned home without her beastie band (and a neighbor found and returned it!) Hope this helps!

Laura, good point about starting in a smaller space like the bathroom…I can imagine many cats who would do better that way. And I really appreciate your cautionary tale – it could happen to anyone. And will check out Beastie Band collars : )

We traveled a lot for my husbands work by car and took our 3 cats at that time. They always puked the first day on the road,slept and refused food until evening at a motel. The more they traveled the better they got. They were usually ok the second day of our travels and each day after. If there was a month or more between travels, then they would puke again on the first day.

A few years ago we moved with more than three cats and we used a regular metal dog crate and also a pop up crate that could hold more than two cats which had frabric netting . My Siamese chewed his way out and hid in some of our pack items and u thought we somehow lost him along the way. We had to stop on our road trip and buy another metal crate. Took three days to move and that cat cried the whole time. Was not a good trip. Taking multiple cats into a motel room and out every morning is a chore but we were moving.

One thing people should do is check the floors of motels or hotel rooms for foreign objects that the cats could ingest. In a motel room in Souhern Illionis I found rat poison, that was put out behind the headboard on the floor. I thought this was totally irresponsible for a pet friendly motel. I am so glad I made a habit to always look everywhere before releasing my cats into the rooms. The underside of the beds cats can get into and sometimes you find wierd stuff inside those boxes that the mattresses set on. I had a few cats hell bent on climbing into a any space they could including climbing on a coat rack with a shelf on it to start to get into a drop ceiling. Traveling can get a bit adenturesome in some motel rooms. Just beware there can be dangers in the rooms you stay in. Like a cabinet style sink which had a hole in th back of it that opened into the buildings wall! Check everything even if it sounds irreseasonable, voice of experience here. Take lots of water,paper towels and plastic grocery bags. I also took toys, that they did play with after they settled down in the room.

We only left our cats in the car if it was for very early morning breakfast stops and not scorching hot out with covers over their crates and window cracked . When we did rest stops one of us always stayed in car with motor running and cats crate doors shut during stops. They also can get up under your dashboard of your car. Just have to be more mindful with cats. They are a bit too creative when finding away to escape.

Darma, I so appreciate your voice of experience here!

I’m 59 years old (boy I’m not bragging about it either:-/) and can’t remember never having a cat in my life. I currently have 6. But iv never had a cat that liked to travel anywhere… I’ll be reading your blog with much interest. Thank you.:-)

My cats wanted no part of food/water/litter while in the car. I did make each day’s trip probably shorter than most people would, for my sanity as much as theirs. I used http://www.petswelcome.com/ , La Quintas are great and we even got to stay at a Hampton (my favorite hotel in general)! And they loved the hotel experience, I guess they are not upset by new environments because they loved all of the new smells in the hotels.

Mine might be odd but they liked having their carriers up on something so they could see out the windows.

YouTube celebrity kitties Cole & Marmalade just made a cross country trip with their humans, from Oceanside CA to southern Illinois – you might see if they have any tips to share.

I will check out Cole & Marmalade, thank you!

15 Tips for Moving Long Distance with Cats

When planning to move, whether you are moving cross-town, cross-country, or to the other side of the world, fur babies are no doubt at the top of your packing list! But traveling or moving a cat to a new location that is far away can be extremely stressful for both you and the cat.

So, how can you manage a less stressful long-distance move for you and your furry friend? The easy answer is preparation.

You need to have yourself, the cat, and the new location prepared as much as possible for the arrival of your cat. Keeping in mind that new environments and situations are always stressful animals, having things ready that you know will offer them comfort is the first step.

How should you transport your cat?

The best way to transport a cat to a new location is to use a pet carrier. This will allow you to make sure your fur baby is safe and comfortable for the long ride. When shopping around for a carrier that is right for your cat, here are a few things to consider:

What size carrier should you purchase?

A small carrier that your cat can comfortably lay down in is fine for taking a quick trip down the street to the vet, but it does not work well for long-distance traveling.

Think about it this way. if you are going to be in a small confined space for no less than six hours, you are not going to be comfortable.

When you add in the fact that your cat will eat, sleep, and use the bathroom in that carrier the entire time you are traveling, you are going to want a bigger space.

Carriers should be large enough for the cat to stand up, easily turn around, and lay down in a place that does not have poo or pee in it.

How many openings does one carrier need?

It would be wise to purchase a carrier with multiple openings to make things easier for you and for the cat. If going in the front door of the carrier is too scary for your cat, maybe gently placing it inside from the top will be easier.

Multiple openings also allow you to more easily access different parts of the carrier to clean it, give your cat food and water, and even comfort the cat when it is needed. If you get a carrier with at least a front and top opening, you will have more ways to access what you need.

What material should the carrier be made of?

Carriers come in three main styles: soft, hard, and wire crates. Soft carriers are fine for short trips but do not provide stability and are not easy to clean.

Wire crates are very open and will not offer your cat very much comfort. They can also leave you at risk for spills in your vehicle.

The best option for traveling long distances in a carrier is a hard-plastic carrier. This style of carrier provides a safe, enclosed space that offers comfort that is easy for you to clean. Hard carriers are also helpful in keeping your pet safe if something unexpected happens.

What should you do before you move?

If preparation is key to a less stressful move with your cat, then you need to start getting ready several weeks in advance. It is also recommended to check the pet policies of your flight service and get an ESA letter from a licensed therapist if required

Cats are intelligent creatures, and chances are they will realize something is up before the big day arrives. You can use this to your advantage.

Have fun while packing!

It is a well-known fact that cats love boxes! Too many boxes and changes can be a bit overwhelming, though. In order to cut down on some of the pre-moving stress, take time to play with your cat in the process.

While you are packing up your things, you can use empty moving boxes and some of your cat’s favorite toys for a play break.

Do not force your cat into a box as this can be traumatic, but if you happen to be playing around the boxes, and the cat jumps inside. Make a game out of it!

Introduce the carrier early

Even if you are using a carrier the cat has been in before, it is a good idea to set it out at least a week before moving day. You can put food, treats, and favorite toys in and around the carrier to draw your cat in.

Then once they feel comfortable being around the carrier, try closing the door a bit with them inside.

This will help them not feel like trapping the enviroment for the first time when you put them in the car.

The more comfortable they are in the carrier, the more relaxed they will be in the car.

• 5 Best Cat Carrier For Nervous Cats

Start using a travel litter box early

It will save you a lot of mess and stress if you use a small litter box in the carrier instead of puppy potty training pads.

If you get a small litter box that will fit in the back of the carrier, you can allow the cat to use that litter box before moving day so that their scent is already there.

 This gives them one more familiar thing that will be close to them on moving day to help alleviate moving day stress. It can also make cleaning up after bathroom uses a lot easier for you.

Take a quick trip to the vet

There are a few purposes for taking a trip to the vet before you move.

First, you should consider talking to your vet to see if they have any specific advice for your cat before you move.

Second, you can take the cat on a quick trip in the carrier they will use for the long trip.

You may also want to ask your vet for your cat’s medical history if that is something they have on file.

This is especially important if your cat takes any kind of medication regularly or has health problems that a new vet would need to know about before administering treatments.

What should you do during the move?

Traveling with a cat does not have to be as stressful as it sounds. Make sure you have the essentials in an easily accessible location.

Things you should bring include:

• Food and bottled water
• Food and water bowls
• Fresh litter and a roll of dog poo bags
• Small pooper scooper
• Familiar toys/beds/blankets
• Carrier with a cat inside

When should you feed and water your cat while traveling?

It is extremely important to keep your cat hydrated. Water is more important than food for people and our fur friends.

If you put water in front of the cat and it chooses not to drink, try spoon-feeding water every few hours to make sure it hydrates.

If spoon-feeding your cat water does not sound like something you can or want to do, you can try feeding your cat a little wet food every few hours instead. This does not have to be a full meal, just enough to moisten its mouth and keep it hydrated.

If you do not want to feed your cats on the road or you know your cat has a sensitive stomach, it is fine to only feed the cat in the morning and evening when you stop for the night. You may also choose to keep your cat on its normal feeding schedule.

For example, if you leave food out for your cat all day, make it available if it gets hungry. Many of the hard-plastic carriers have bowls for food and water that attach to the door on the front so they do not take up space in the carrier where the cat can lay down.

It will not hurt your cat to only eat when the car is not moving or when you stop for the night, but keeping a routine may add a certain level of comfort on the long journey.

How can you ensure safety while traveling?

The most important thing, even more so than your cat’s comfort, is your cat’s safety. There are a few things you can do to help keep your pet safe while in the car.

As mentioned before, choosing a hard carrier is the first step, but you will also want to make sure you can secure the carrier with a seatbelt so that if an accident occurs, both you and the cat will not be harmed by a flying cat carrier.

Giving your cat a collar with their name, your emergency contact information, and any important medical information will help you to more quickly locate your cat if it gets lost.

You may also want to consider getting your cat chipped so that if it is found, someone can easily scan the cat for a chip with your contact information so they know the cat has an owner. This will also allow the cat to be identified, even if it loses its collar.

Finally, as tempting as it will be to let your cat sit in your lap, for your safety and the safety of the cat, leave it in the carrier when the vehicle is moving.

This will help keep it safe if an accident occurs, and it will help to prevent messes or accidents if the cat gets spooked and escapes your grasp.

What should you do if your cat will not stop crying?

How would you normally comfort your cat when it cries? Oftentimes, we talk to our cats, we pet them, and we play with them to get them to stop crying. The same applies when you are in the car. Talking to the cat provides it with a familiar voice, so it does not feel like it has been abandoned.

If you can safely reach into the carrier and pet or play with your cat, this is helpful too. Some studies have shown that gently rubbing your cat’s ears, head, and back can have a therapeutic effect on them, which would, in turn, calm them down and help them to stop crying.

Remember: No matter how much your cat cries, leave them in the carrier when the vehicle is moving. It is for your safety and theirs.

How can you help your cat adjust to its new home?

There are many things you can do to help your cat adjust to the new environment.

Start off slowly

Before you decide to let your cat roam free in its new home, you may want to consider starting your cat off in one room. It’s a good idea to use a smaller room like the bathroom or your bedroom, so your cat does not become overwhelmed.

You can easily set up the litter box, food and water bowls, a comfortable place for your cat to sleep, some familiar toys, and maybe even a few special treats.

Then make sure you come in to visit your cat and play with it in its new environment so it knows you are still nearby.

Surround your cat with familiar things

Even when you have opened up a space your cat can explore, it may still need familiarity to relax and feel comfortable.

Keep a routine once you are in your new home, talk, play, feed, and pet your cat like you normally would, and keep things as familiar as possible being in a new place.

• How to Survive Moving with Your Cat

Just give it time

In the end, you just have to give your furry friend time to adjust. If you are taking a five-day trip in the car to get to your new location, the first day or two will be tough, but your cat will start to adjust.

Once you have arrived, the cat might be scared and hide a lot for the first few days, that is completely normal.

Traveling with a cat for several days or even several hours in a car sounds like an unbearably stressful task, but it is not as bad as it sounds.

Prepare before you leave, be ready and flexible when accidents happen or you have to make unexpected stops, and be forgiven as you are not the only one feeling the pressure.

Hi, This is Alexa, and I love cats. This Website is a Complete Journal about how to travel with a cat and other information about Cat Health, Cat Training, Cat Behavior, Cat Foods and more. I hope you find it useful.

How To Travel With A Cat In A Car Long Distance: 13 Useful Tips

Posted on Published: January 31, 2022  - Last updated: January 23, 2024

Categories Cat Travel , Travel , Travel Tips

So you’re planning to travel with a cat in the car?

I don’t want to tell you that travel with a cat in a car is going to be a breeze. I t’s all about your cat and their needs . Every cat is different and will behave differently in the car – especially to travel with cats in a car long distance.

A cat may be fine for a few minutes to an hour in the car, but once you hit the 3, 4, or even 8 hour mark – you can’t really know how they’re going to be?

What about the different terrains you may encounter while driving with a cat? It may not be flat the whole way so you have to be prepared for bumpy and mountainous driving conditions.

Because there are so many unknowns when you travel with cats in a car long distance, you have to prepare for the worst . Here are my top tips for when you travel with a cat in a car long distance.

P.S. If you’re traveling with cats long distance and staying overnight, be sure to read my top tips for staying in a hotel with a cat .

Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!

Travel With Cats In A Car Long Distance – My Experience

My experience driving with a cat comes from my long distance road trips from Montreal to Florida, which is a 26 hour road trip each way.

Plus, we’ve also done some shorter road trips over the years together.

The drives are typically smooth sailing, but sometimes the little guy surprises me with some new behaviours. So you should always be prepared for anything!

Never forget a favourite travel memory

• Everything You Should Know Before Travelling With A Cat: Is It Worth It?

13 Tips How To Travel With A Cat In A Car

Here are the top tips I’ve learned from driving with a cat in the car!

1. Find A Carrier They Love (Don’t Let Them Wander Free!)

When you travel with a cat in a car, the safest place for them to be is in a car safe carrier (like this one on Amazon ).

A free roaming cat in the car causes risks, not only for your safety but also theirs. Even the most well trained cat is risky.

There are so many carriers to choose from, from large to small. Originally I had the large carrier for him, like this one from Amazon . I thought this way my cat would be able to stretch his legs for a bit during longer journeys.

But, after a few road trips, I noticed he’s really in love with his Navigator cat backpack (see it on Amazon here ) and he’s completely okay sleeping in there for 11 hours on the road.

So now I take whatever we have space for in the car, knowing that he’s good in both!

Shop PetSeek Large Cat Carrier On Amazon

2. Get Them Used To Their Carrier Ahead Of Time

A cat’s carrier should be their safe space. You want them to be used to the carrier before ever bringing them into the car in it.

To do this, leave the carrier out in the house for your cat to constantly use. At the start, I left treats inside for my cat to find.

If you have enough time, I would also train your cat to be comfortable when the carrier is closed… this is where my cat starts to freak out.

Start closing the carrier, then give them a treat. Slowly keep the carrier door closed for longer periods of time before giving them their treat.

P.S. If you’re using a different carrier for the car and the hotel when you travel with cats in a car long distance, try to get them used to both. The car carrier is so large, we use a cat backpack to transport him from the car to the hotel.

You might also be interested in reading…

• Honest Cat Backpack Review: Pecute Cat Backpack

3. Travel With A Cat In A Car – Get Them Used To Driving

The best thing you can do before you travel with cats in a car long distance is to get them used to driving as much as possible beforehand .

Driving is a lot to handle for cats: there’s a lot of motion, different noises, lights …etc.

You want them to be as used to the car as much as possible before venturing on a long road trip. Getting them used to their carrier at home is one thing, bringing it into the car is a whole other ball game.

When we first started bringing our cat in the car he would meow like crazy and rip out of his carrier. I would have to sit in the back with him to put him back inside. Eventually – he learned. I can’t stress enough that this process takes time, so if you have time before you leave, there’s nothing better you can do for your cat.

How To Prepare A Cat For Travel: Training Tips & More

We started by taking our cat in the car as much as we could on short drives. Around the block, to the grocery store to pick up an online order…etc. Try going at different times of the day as well so they can be used to day time, and night time driving!

Eventually, our cat got used to it and now immediately falls asleep as soon as we get in the car.

4. Make Their Carrier Feel Comfortable & Cozy

I know, it’s a lot about the carrier so far, bit this is their tiny home on wheels!

So you want there carrier to feel like home as much as possible, not a barren cold carrier they’re stuck in for several hours.

There are a few ways to make your cat feel more comfortable in their carrier to travel with cats long distances.

In the large carrier, I put his bed and a blanket inside so he has a warm place to sleep. I even put a scratcher in there if he wants to use it- although I never saw him even look at it. You can add a toy or two if you want to as well.

We did once have a poop incident, so now I always line the bottom of the carrier with pee pee pads (like these on Amazon )… but more on cat bathrooms breaks in a bit!

If you see your cat is overwhelmed in the car, you can also put a blanket on top of the carrier. This will make the space feel cozier and warmer, and now they won’t be able to see outside or any light reflections.

The ultimate cat travel planner!

My  digital cat travel planner template  has everything you need to travel with your cat: research pet-friendly places, cat packing lists and checklist. You can print it out or use it digitally on your phone, tablet, or computer.

5. Car Travel With Cat: Keep Your Cat Calm While Driving

If your cat is still uncomfortable driving, you may want to get them something to calm their nerves a bit.

I’ve used a spray that mimics cat pheromones to calm them down, see it on Amazon here . Spray this in their carrier 15 minutes before you leave and it lasts from 4 to 5 hours. Heads up: people are nervous that the spray can make the driver sleepy, we haven’t noticed any issues with it.

Another option when going on a roadtrip with cats is to buy calming treats (like these on Amazon ).

If your cat needs something stronger, you can also speak to your vet about getting some medication to travel with a cat in a car.

Shop Ways To Keep You Cat Calm When You Travel With A Cat In A Car

Shop Amazon.ca

6. Be Prepared: Cats Can Hold In Their Pee… But Accidents Happen

You can try to get your cat to use their litter before leaving, but you most likely won’t be successful. And you shouldn’t really worry, cats can hold their pee for up to 24 to 48 hours , but realistically shouldn’t hold it for more than 12 hours (read more here ).

Of course, accidents do happen, especially if your cat is nervous.

With his in mind, plan for the worst. As I mentioned, after a poop incident one summer we now line our cats carrier with absorbent pee pee pads . That way, if our cat had an accident while driving, it’s an easy clean up. It’s also good to have in case your cat gets nauseous and throws up. See pee pee pads on Amazon .

You can still plan to offer your cat their litter box at every stop, but more likely than not they won’t use it… more on travel cat litter boxes soon !

7. Buy Cat Travel Litter Boxes & Use Your Normal Litter…

A big question when travelling with a cat in the car is what to do about the litter box? It’s not like a dog that you can let out to pee on the grass.

You want to buy a smaller litter box that you can close. There are small cat travel litter boxes, like this one on Amazon , or you can just buy a small plastic container with a cover (what we do).

This way, you can easily cover it up and not worry about it spilling it in the car. Or if your cat does use it on the road trip, you can close it up and not have to worry about spelling it!

Another cat road trip tip for the litter box is to use the same litter you’re using at home ! And there are a few reasons for this…

If you buy a travel litter that comes with litter, it’s usually not quality litter that’s provided . It can be dustier and won’t mask the smell as well.

But the main thing is that your cat isn’t used to it. They’re already being introduced to so many new environments and changes – don’t change their litter on them!

Remember, you want to keep as many things as constant as you can. Using the same litter is one of the best ways to do that. Your cat is already used to it, you know they like it, why would you change it?

I even went as far as taking some old litter instead of a completely new bag (don’t worry I cleaned it out first!). But this way it already even smelled like him and he knew it was his!

Shop Cat Travel Litter Box On Amazon

8. What About Your Bathroom Breaks?

When you travel with a cat in a car, your needs often get overlooked. But they really shouldn’t.

Just like you you need to think about your cats bathroom breaks, you also have to think about your own. But unlike cats, we as humans can’t (and shouldn’t) be holding in our pee.

Depending on if you’re driving with anyone else when you travel with a cat in car, you may have to leave your cat alone in the car for a few minutes while you take car of business.

When you leave your cat in the car, make sure their carrier is closed, or they are attached to a leash. You don’t want to open the door to find them running out!

When we first started out driving with a cat, we didn’t leave him alone for a second. We were two people driving so while my partner would fill up with gas, I would use the bathroom. Then we would swap, I would stay at the car – seeing if the cat needed anything (water, food …etc.) while my partner used the bathroom. This way, it also never felt like we were ever waiting for the other person.

The ultimate digital travel planner bundle for you and your cat!

My digital travel planner template  has everything you need to plan your vacation and it’s paired with my cat travel planner .

Click Here to see the bundle on Etsy

By the end of the trip, the cat was more used to staying in the car by himself so now we are able to leave him alone briefly.

If you’re alone driving with a cat, try to train them ahead of time to be okay in the car alone. Or another option is to use a duffel or cat backpack to bring them inside with you. We love the Pecute cat backpack for this.

9. How To Keep A Cat In The Car Hydrated!

If you’re packing water for yourself, make sure you have extra for your cat and a bowl to give it to them ( get a collapsible bowl on Amazon for this ).

Our cat didn’t want to drink water during the drive at all. Whenever I offered it to him he was too interested in what was happening outside.

It’s okay if they don’t drink during the day, but make sure they drink enough at night. Dehydration in cats is a real thing.

To make sure my cat stayed hydrated on our road trip I bought chicken in water from Purebites . You can also buy wet food to give them when you arrive at your destination to make sure they’re getting enough water.

Roadtrip With Cats – Keep Your Kitty Hydrated

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• Cat parents love PureBites because our treats are rich in nutrients for a happy and healthy life

10. Pack A Quick Access Bag With Your Cats Necessities

You’ve packed everything for your cat and maybe even have a separate overnight bag for them.

But you’ll also want to pack a quick access bag. This bag will keep everything you may need for your cat while you’re driving . You can either keep it in the front with you or have it accessible in the back seat.

It should carry all your cats necessities and what you’ll either need in the car or when you stop. I packed a small bag of treats (two kinds for a nice variety!), food, his harness and leash, collapsible bowl, Feliway calming spray, and a toy.

You should also keep any medication that your cat has here as well as his proof of vaccination.

11. How To Travel With A Cat: Don’t Just Ignore Them For 8+ Hours!

This may sound obvious but depending on your cat, they may just sleep in the car the whole time, so they can be easy to forget about.

I noticed that towards the end of the day, our cat did get lonely. He would start meowing and pace in the carrier.

Every stop even if I didn’t take him out, I would go around to give him some pets and offer him food and water. But he was often too distracted by what was happening outside to even care about me.

So, instead, while on the road I would open up the carrier when he was calm and just stick my hand in to pet him every once in a while. He really appreciated this to know that we were still there and give him a bit of human touch. Normally he doesn’t go this many hours without sitting on our lap.

This is also where sometimes I would take him out of the carrier to sit on my lap if he was really agitated. This is really about listening to your cat and their needs.

12. Don’t Go Too Long Without Stopping With A Cat In The Car

Even if your cat doesn’t get out of the car when you stop, or you noticed they still don’t drink water, it’s still important to take a break.

You don’t want to go too long in the car without stopping and giving them the option to get out.

I would plan to stop max every 3 hours but also listen to your cats needs. If they’re getting restless stop earlier for them. Give them water, food, and maybe even offer them the litter box.

My cat never wanted to go out in the end, he felt safest in the carrier in the car. So I did stop taking him out and offering him water by the end of the trip – I knew he didn’t want it. But I would still visit him in the backseat and give him some much deserved pets!

• 15 Important Cat Road Trips Tips For Staying In A Hotel With A Cat

13. Roadtrip With Cats: What Are The Best Places To Stop?

Depending on where you travel with your cat in the car, there may be road side rest stops. On route from Montreal to Florida rest stops right off the highway.

They had bathrooms and typically a large grassy area with picnic tables.

I found I could take my cat out to the grass on the leash and harness here (like this set on Amazon ). It’s a good spot to set up a bathroom break for your cat and offer water and food outside the car.

The only downside is that they may not have a gas station to fill up at. So you’ll still have to make another stop for that.

• Top 50 Long Distance Road Trip Tips For A Safe & Easy Drive

Quick Links – What You’ll Need To Travel With A Cat

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• What You Need To Travel With Your Cat In A Car Long Distances

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Pamela Schuman

Thursday 7th of September 2023

I am traveling from Washington to Indiana with four cats and I’m not sure how they’re going to do my one cat I drove from Indiana to Washington with when she was five weeks old that was it that was a breeze but she’s over a year now and the others are younger so I’m hoping my trip goes great. I’m thinking at least five days for overnights. What do you think?

Friday 22nd of September 2023

I hope your trip goes great too! It seems like you've planned a decent amount of time for the drive to allow for stops and shorter driving days if you need it. Take it one day at a time and see how your cats are doing, if you can try to take them in some short car rides before you head out on the big trip!

Good luck, happy cat travels :D

Saturday 19th of August 2023

Hello Meghan! 🐾

Enjoyed reading your helpful and practiced tips. I’m moving 1800 miles away at the end of Sept. Having tons of anxiety over driving or flying with my fur baby Templeton. 😻 He’s older and like most cats, doesn’t love car rides. 😾 Do you have any advice/articles on which is better - flying or driving? I’m sure it’s cat and owner dependent. The Vet said it’s going to be stressful either way, so get it over with quickly and fly with him. I go back and forth. I’ll need Valium! 😹

Oh no!! I'm sorry to hear that you're stressed about traveling with your fur baby but I totally get your stress.

I've actually never flown with my cat so I can't say from experience which is better. I would listen to your vet and get it over with if they don't like either!

Hope it goes well, best of luck!

Sunday 23rd of July 2023

Awesome article, great tips. I also read the article about hotels tips with cats. We're driving cross country with 2 cats and a new to them dog. These cats have never moved with us before. They will have each other to comfort each other. Lots of great tips and the links were very helpful!

Thursday 27th of July 2023

Thanks! Hope your cat and doggie travels go well!

Monday 3rd of July 2023

I'm contemplating a trip of approximately 1700 miles, traveling alone with my 2 cats. Really not sure I can do this. What is the most important thing you can advise me of.

Tuesday 4th of July 2023

It really all depends on your cats, my best advice is to get them used to the car as much as possible and start taking them with you any time you can before your trip! I would also say not to push it on the driving days as well. Start with shorter days and then if they're doing alright you can start adding time. Our cat was perfect for around 7 hours in the car and then by the 8 hour mark we noticed we would start getting antsy. So when we drove back home from Florida (about 1600 miles!) we made sure to never pass the 8 hour mark in the car.

Happy cat travels! Let me know if you have any other questions!

Monday 27th of February 2023

My Fuzzy beast, a 6 pound Ragdoll took to it as easily as my Alaskan Malamute x GSD, even sleeping in the back seat together, taking bathroom breaks in loose sandy soil. She approached new hotels with the same brief interest we all had, looked for the dog’s bed so she knew where she was sleeping that night if she wished … bugger all the dog. It wasn’t my magic touch though- I had a tuxedo who sat in the back window and moaned like he was going to vomit.

That's adorable! I like to think you still took some part in making it easy for your ragdoll to take to travel easier :D Just shows you how can really depend on the cat though sometimes! I hope it gets easier with your lil Tuxedo kitty!

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Tips for Moving a Cat Long Distance

Moving cats to a new home 

At U-Pack ®, we understand cats are part of the family, so when you’re moving out of state, the feline members are relocating with you. We take the stress out of long-distance moving by transporting your belongings so you can focus on traveling with your family and purring passengers. Talk to a veterinarian about any health concerns about the kitties first, and then try these 9 purr-fect tips for traveling long distance with cats. 

Have other pets? Check out our practical guide for moving with pets . 

9 tips for moving long distance with a cat  

Moving can disrupt an animal’s routine. Try these tips to minimize stress on your cats to help them have a smooth trip.  

1. Gather supplies for traveling with cats in a car

Keeping cats comfortable is rule number one when traveling by car. It’s helpful to have the right things on hand before the trip. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pet carrier or crate (one per cat): It should be big enough for the cat to stand and turn around. 
• Travel or disposable litter box: Bring pet waste bags and pack extra litter in zip-top bags.
• Food and water: Collapsible bowls sold at most pet stores help save space. 
• Medications or catnip spray 
• Favorite toys and blanket 
• Harness and leash 

Flying with a kitty? Check with the airline for specific regulations on carriers and any extra fees. 

2. Introduce a harness and leash

While leash walking doesn’t come as naturally to cats as it does to most dogs, it can be done with practice and patience. Start with getting her used to the harness and work your way up to using the leash in the yard or another safe space. This step is important to keep your pet from darting away at any stops during the trip.

3. Practice traveling in a pet carrier

If your cat is not used to riding in a car or a carrier, don’t spring it on her last minute. A few weeks before the move, get the kitty used to the carrier by introducing it in a safe space. Coax her inside with treats or by offering meals inside it. 

Once a cat is used to the carrier, take short car rides, gradually increasing the duration. Offer praise and treats when the trips are over to help associate the car with a positive experience. 

4. Create a cozy cat sanctuary while packing and loading

Turn a room or large closet into a safe space for your purring friend so she can escape the chaos of packing and loading. Keep it comfortable by storing her things there (food, water, litter box, toys, carrier and bed). 

5. Confine kitties during transit

It’s not safe to let animals roam the vehicle freely. Use a pet restraint, preferably a hard-shelled carrier or crate, to keep the cat contained in the car. The carrier should be level and secured with a seat belt with a vent pointing toward it for ventilation. If your feline companion is especially nervous, try covering the crate with a thin blanket or towel spritzed with catnip spray to help her stay calm or use a dose of veterinarian-prescribed anxiety medication. 

6. Pack cat essentials in the car

Having water, food, toys, pet waste bags and a travel litter box nearby will make the trip easier, so you won’t have to hunt for what you need while on the road.

7. Choose feline-friendly hotels and rest stops

Many hotels are listed as pet-friendly, but make sure to confirm that they’re not just dog-friendly. These hotels are known to allow cats, but you’ll want to check with each specific location: 

• Extended Stay America 
• Hotels by Hilton 
• Marriott Hotels 
• Red Roof Inns  

Pet stores are great places to stop for restroom breaks since you can take cats inside, but traditional roadside rest stops will work with kitties in the carrier or on a leash. 

8. Establish a new kitty hideaway

Recreate the sanctuary from the old place. Put all your cat’s favorite things in a confined room or space so she can relax while you set up the new household. As your feline friend becomes more comfortable, consider letting her explore more of the home by moving a few of her things around the house. Soon, the boss in the family will feel at home. 

9. Keep cats indoors for two weeks to establish a routine

Cats are territorial animals, so they’ve been known to try to return to previous homes. Most veterinarians recommend keeping cats inside for at least two weeks after a move. Supervise any outdoor visits or use tethers for short periods alone in the yard. Don’t forget to update your pets' tags or microchips with the new address in case they wander off. You don’t want to lose your friend! 

More questions about moving with cats? 

If you have any other questions about moving with a cat, let us know in the comments section below. Get a free quote online or call 844-362-5303 844-594-3077  to speak to a U-Pack moving consultant.  Learn more about our moving service . 

Hear from a cat owner’s point of view. Celebrity kitties  Cole and Marmalade moved with us twice! 

View the discussion thread.

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Best Way To Transport A Cat Long Distance

Transporting a cat long distance can be a stressful experience for both the feline and their owner. However, with the right preparation and knowledge, it can be a smooth and safe journey for everyone involved. In this article, we will explore the best ways to transport a cat long distance, along with interesting trends, common concerns, and expert advice from professionals in the field.

Best Ways to Transport a Cat Long Distance:

1. Use a secure and comfortable carrier: It is essential to use a carrier that is secure and comfortable for your cat during a long-distance journey. Make sure the carrier is well-ventilated, spacious enough for your cat to stand and turn around, and has a secure latch to prevent escape.

2. Plan your route in advance: Before embarking on a long-distance journey with your cat, plan your route in advance. Make sure to research pet-friendly accommodations, rest stops, and veterinary clinics along the way. This will help you be prepared for any unexpected situations that may arise.

3. Pack essential supplies: When traveling long distance with your cat, pack essential supplies such as food, water, litter, litter box, toys, and any necessary medications. Having these supplies on hand will ensure your cat is comfortable and well taken care of during the journey.

4. Keep your cat calm: Cats can easily become stressed during long-distance travel. To keep your cat calm, consider using pheromone sprays or diffusers, playing soothing music, or covering the carrier with a blanket to create a cozy and secure environment.

5. Take frequent breaks: Just like humans, cats need breaks during long-distance travel. Make sure to stop every few hours to allow your cat to stretch their legs, use the litter box, and get some fresh air. This will help prevent your cat from becoming anxious or restless during the journey.

6. Monitor your cat’s well-being: Throughout the journey, monitor your cat’s well-being closely. Look out for signs of stress, dehydration, or discomfort, and seek veterinary attention if necessary. It’s important to prioritize your cat’s health and safety during long-distance travel.

7. Consider hiring a professional pet transport service: If you’re not comfortable transporting your cat long distance on your own, consider hiring a professional pet transport service. These services specialize in safely transporting pets and can provide a stress-free experience for both you and your cat.

Interesting Trends:

1. Increase in pet-friendly travel options: With more people traveling with their pets, there has been a significant increase in pet-friendly travel options. From pet-friendly airlines to hotels and rental cars, there are now more options than ever for pet owners to travel with their furry friends.

2. Rise in demand for pet transport services: As pet ownership continues to rise, there has been a corresponding increase in demand for pet transport services. These services offer a convenient and safe way for pet owners to transport their pets long distance, whether for a move, vacation, or other reasons.

3. Growth in pet travel accessories: The market for pet travel accessories has seen significant growth in recent years. From carriers and crates to seatbelt harnesses and travel beds, there are now more options than ever for pet owners to ensure their furry friends are safe and comfortable during travel.

4. Emphasis on pet safety and well-being: Pet owners are increasingly prioritizing their pets’ safety and well-being during travel. This has led to a greater emphasis on pet safety measures, such as secure carriers, ID tags, and microchips, to ensure pets are protected during long-distance journeys.

5. Adoption of technology for pet travel: Technology has played a significant role in improving the pet travel experience. From GPS trackers to pet monitoring cameras, pet owners now have access to a range of tech tools to keep their pets safe and secure during travel.

6. Growth in pet travel insurance: Just as humans have travel insurance, there has been a rise in pet travel insurance options. These policies offer coverage for unexpected events such as accidents, illnesses, or lost pets during travel, providing peace of mind for pet owners.

7. Focus on eco-friendly pet travel options: With increasing awareness of environmental issues, there has been a growing focus on eco-friendly pet travel options. From biodegradable litter to carbon-neutral pet transport services, pet owners now have more sustainable choices for traveling with their pets.

Expert Advice:

1. “When transporting a cat long distance, it’s essential to create a comfortable and secure environment for them. Make sure to provide familiar items such as toys and blankets to help them feel at ease during the journey.” – Feline Behavior Specialist

2. “Monitoring your cat’s well-being during travel is crucial. Keep an eye out for signs of distress, dehydration, or illness, and seek veterinary attention if needed. Your cat’s health should always be the top priority.” – Veterinary Technician

3. “Taking frequent breaks during long-distance travel is key to keeping your cat comfortable and relaxed. Stop every few hours to allow your cat to stretch their legs, use the litter box, and get some fresh air.” – Pet Travel Consultant

4. “If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of transporting your cat long distance, consider hiring a professional pet transport service. These services can handle all the details and ensure a stress-free journey for both you and your cat.” – Pet Transport Specialist

Common Concerns and Answers:

1. Concern: My cat gets anxious during travel. How can I keep them calm?

Answer: Consider using pheromone sprays or diffusers, playing soothing music, or covering the carrier with a blanket to create a cozy and secure environment for your cat.

2. Concern: What if my cat needs to use the litter box during the journey?

Answer: Pack a portable litter box and make sure to stop every few hours to allow your cat to use the litter box and stretch their legs.

3. Concern: How can I ensure my cat stays hydrated during long-distance travel?

Answer: Provide access to fresh water at all times and offer wet food, which can help keep your cat hydrated during the journey.

4. Concern: What if my cat becomes sick or injured during travel?

Answer: Have a pet first aid kit on hand and be prepared to seek veterinary attention if needed. Research veterinary clinics along your route in advance.

5. Concern: Will my cat be comfortable in a carrier for an extended period?

Answer: Make sure to choose a carrier that is spacious, well-ventilated, and comfortable for your cat. Provide familiar items such as blankets and toys to help them feel at ease.

6. Concern: How can I prevent my cat from escaping during travel?

Answer: Use a carrier with a secure latch and consider using a harness or collar with an ID tag for added security. Keep a close eye on your cat during stops and transitions.

7. Concern: What if my cat refuses to eat or drink during travel?

Answer: Offer familiar food and water from home and consider feeding small, frequent meals to encourage your cat to eat and drink. Monitor their intake closely and seek veterinary advice if needed.

8. Concern: How can I make sure my cat is safe during airline travel?

Answer: Research airline pet policies in advance and choose a reputable airline with pet-friendly accommodations. Make sure to follow all airline guidelines for pet travel.

9. Concern: What if my cat becomes agitated or aggressive during travel?

Answer: Stay calm and speak soothingly to your cat to help reassure them. Consider covering the carrier with a blanket to create a cozy and secure environment.

10. Concern: How can I prepare my cat for a long-distance journey?

Answer: Familiarize your cat with the carrier in advance and take short practice trips to help them acclimate to travel. Provide positive reinforcement and rewards for good behavior.

11. Concern: Will my cat be able to handle the stress of a long-distance journey?

Answer: Cats are resilient animals, but it’s important to monitor their well-being closely during travel. Look out for signs of stress or discomfort and seek veterinary attention if needed.

12. Concern: What if my cat becomes motion sick during travel?

Answer: Speak to your veterinarian about potential medications or supplements to help prevent motion sickness. Keep the carrier well-ventilated and avoid sudden movements.

13. Concern: How can I ensure my cat stays comfortable in varying temperatures during travel?

Answer: Pack a travel blanket or heating pad for colder temperatures and make sure to keep your cat cool and hydrated in warmer weather. Monitor their comfort closely.

14. Concern: What if my cat escapes during a rest stop or transition?

Answer: Keep a close eye on your cat during stops and transitions and always use a secure harness or leash when outside. Make sure your cat is microchipped and has proper identification.

15. Concern: Can I transport multiple cats together during a long-distance journey?

Answer: It’s possible to transport multiple cats together, but it’s important to ensure they have enough space, resources, and opportunities for alone time. Monitor their interactions closely and provide separate carriers if needed.

In summary, transporting a cat long distance can be a challenging but manageable experience with the right preparation and care. By following these tips and expert advice, you can ensure a safe and comfortable journey for your feline friend. Remember to prioritize your cat’s health and well-being throughout the journey, and seek professional help if needed. Safe travels!

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Travelling with your cat

Need to take your cat on a trip by car, taxi, or train? Or perhaps just need some advice on how to travel long distance with a cat? Read our guide on making travelling as easy and stress-free as possible for you and your cat.

Travelling with cats

Choosing the right cat carrier when travelling, how to get your cat used to a carrier for travel, what to bring when travelling with your cat, how to get your cat used to travelling in a car.

• Tips for travelling long distance with your cat

Travelling with your cat by taxi

Travelling with your cat by train or bus, how long can cats travel without going to the bathroom, what is motion sickness in cats.

We know that most cats find travelling stressful. They feel safe in a familiar environment and are not used to the different smells, noises and sensations of travelling in a vehicle. Even the sight of the pet carrier being taken out can stress some cats because they associate it with a sign of an upcoming trip.

It is best to only take your cat on trips if absolutely necessary, but some journeys, like going to the vet or moving to a new place, may be unavoidable.

If your cat gets very stressed when travelling, speak to your vet as they can discuss further options.

Find out more about spotting signs of cat stress .

One of the first things to prepare before travelling is to have a cat carrier that is safe and comfortable.

It should be well-ventilated and made of sturdy material such as plastic or metal wire that is also easy to clean in case of any accidents.

While some cats prefer being in small spaces when frightened, it’s important to choose a carrier that’s the right size for your cat, so they can stand up and move around if needed.

Learn more about how to choose and use a cat carrier .

To help your cat feel more comfortable, get them used to the carrier at least a few days before the trip. Place the carrier in a room where they like to relax and leave it open so they can explore and get to know it better in their own time. You can also put in their familiar blanket and add some treats.

For more nervous cats, a pheromone spray like FELIWAY® can be used inside the carrier around 15 minutes before going on a trip.

When going on a short trip with your cat such as to the vet, apart from having them in the carrier you can also bring their favourite toy or blanket.

For longer road trips, you should take the following to ensure your cat has everything they may need:

• cat carrier and soft bedding
• food and bottled water
• litter box, familiar litter and waste bags
• puppy pads (to line the carrier or place under a blanket)
• pet-safe cleaning wipes and disinfectant  

If your cat hasn’t travelled in a car before, introduce them to travel gradually. Start with a short trip and go on a slightly longer journey the next time.

Your cat may be loud and meowing excessively. This is a sign of stress, but they should settle down eventually. You can show them attention and help them calm down a little by talking to them gently and reward them with treats when the journey is over.

Can I drive with my cat loose in the car?

To keep everyone safe, your cat should be kept in their carrier at all times when driving. Leaving your cat loose in the car can be a distraction and put you at risk of an accident. To secure the carrier, it’s best to put it on a backseat and fasten it with a seat belt.

Tips for travelling long distance in a car with your cat

• Book a routine vet check to make sure your cat is healthy for travel
• Unless you’ve been told otherwise by your vet, try to limit food for at least a few hours before the journey to avoid vomiting and reduce motion sickness
• Plan your journey route and breaks in advance. Don’t leave your cat unattended in the car, especially in hot weather . If travelling alone, limit to only essential short breaks and make sure inside the car is well-ventilated and the temperature is comfortable for your cat
• If possible, avoid travelling with your cat for more than four hours in a day and let them out in a room where they will spend the night. For longer journeys, aim to take regular breaks every two to four hours to give you a chance to check up on your cat

There may be situations when you need to go to the vet urgently or take your cat somewhere quickly, and if you don’t have a car, a taxi can be a good option.

As for taxis, whether or not you can travel with your pet depends on the taxi company or driver. Some companies may charge extra to bring a pet. Depending on your location, there may be a pet-specific taxi service in the area.

Before booking, make sure the taxi driver will accept travelling with pets. You will also need to keep your cat inside the carrier for the duration of the trip.

If you’re wondering whether you can take your cat on a train, you should know that in the UK each passenger is allowed to travel with up to two pets, free of charge.

If you want to take your cat on a bus, the bus driver may decide at their discretion whether you are allowed on with a pet, depending on how busy the bus is and whether there are other animals on board.

Other things to be aware of when travelling on a train or bus are the many different smells, unfamiliar faces, and other animals, all of which can scare your cat. You can try booking a ticket outside of peak hours and, if possible, find a quiet place during the journey. Do not leave your cat unattended, and keep the carrier close to you. Throwing a light blanket over the carrier can help prevent overstimulation but ensure there is adequate airflow. 

When travelling by public transport, you should keep your cat in a carrier throughout the trip.

On average, cats with no underlying health issues urinate two to four times daily and poop about once a day.

However, being in an unfamiliar environment such as in a car is stressful for your cat so they might hold in their urge to go to the bathroom. But sometimes they are not able to hold it and will need to use the litter box right away. 

If you notice that your cat suddenly becomes extremely loud and shows signs of distress or wanting to get out, it might be the time you will need to let them use the litter box. It’s advisable to avoid letting your cat in and out of the carrier frequently but, if needed, have the litter box ready next to them and let them use it once you stop for a break.

Motion sickness is a common occurrence in many cats. There can be several causes, but the most common cause of motion sickness in cats is anxiety and stress associated with travel. If your cat experiences this, you may notice the following symptoms:

• fast breathing or panting
• excessive lip licking and drooling
• increased vocalisation and meowing
• lethargy or inactivity

If you see any of these signs, you should let your vet know so they can do a physical exam to rule out any health issues or advise you on ways to manage your cat’s anxiety when travelling.

Although desensitising cats to travel can take some work and patience, over time your cat should become more comfortable when going on a trip.

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Foreign travel and cats

Moving home with your cat

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Traveling With Cats [Your Ultimate Guide & 36 Game-Changing Tips]

Ever wondered about jet-setting with your beloved pet cat but didn't quite know how to go about it? Well, your worry ends here. We've tapped into the expertise of Sally Smith, the revered Founder and President of Companion Pet Enterprises. Together we have created a detailed guide for traveling with cats. We also bring you 36 invaluable tips shared by our community members over the years.

We'll cover topics like prepping your precious cat for car or plane travel and understanding the paperwork and health checks required for interstate or international travel. We will also provide practical tips on acclimating your cat to the carrier and making the journey comfortable.

But that's not it. We dive deeper into what professional pet transporters bring to the table, especially for more complex moves. Get insights into their licensing, security programs, and the whole gamut of services they provide.

Keep reading and uncover the wealth of information tucked away in this guide. Your cat's travel worries will soon be a thing of the past!

Traveling With Your Cat: Car Or Plane?

There are only two ways to move pets, by car or by plane. For interstate travel or travel to a neighboring country like Canada, your cat should first be examined by a veterinarian and have a health certificate issued prior to travel.

At border crossings, you may be asked if you have a certificate. If you are unable to produce one, they will hold you up a bit, while you answer all the questions as to why you were not prepared.

Traveling cross-country by vehicle requires quite a bit of time versus air travel. Some additional requirements for longer trips need to be considered:

Let Fluffy get acclimated and friendly with the cat carrier. Leave it open with bedding in it, in the room she is most comfortable in. Once the initial apprehension dissipates, kitty curiosity can take over.

If it looks inviting, is safe (meaning the door is propped open), and has treats inside, Fluffy should investigate it in her own time. If she does not, put her inside for a few minutes, then let her out.

Short interludes where nothing happens will help alleviate the fear of the carrier. Don't force her inside. If she shows any reluctance, stand the carrier on end with the door open and scruff Fluffy gently and lower her inside.

Close the door quickly behind her; gently lower the carrier to a normal position keeping her inside for just a few moments, then release her.

In order to prevent escape or accidents on the road, cats should always be transported in a carrier. To keep her calmer, if you are only going a short distance, you can alleviate some of the stress (if it is not a really hot day) and cover the carrier with a dark cloth.

How To Survive Long-Distance Travel With Cats

But for longer trips here are some easy tips to follow:

Planned Rest Stops

Stopping not only gives the driver a break, but also offers you the opportunity to check on your cat, and offer her the use of a litter box and a drink.

Before you open up the carrier, be sure all doors and windows in the car are closed. Let Fluffy out of the carrier, with the litter box on the seat or floor near the carrier, but don't be surprised if she won't use it.

Let her walk around a little bit before returning her to the carrier, but don't let her get underneath your seat where she will be hard to reach.

Time Your Trips

Plan to travel no longer than 7 or 8 hours (most cats can wait to relieve themselves for that period of time) and the box can be then offered in the safety of a hotel room. If your cat is prone to motion sickness, don't offer her any food while she is in motion.

Find Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Schedule your trip around hotels that accept pets. Call ahead of time to find out if the hotel or motel is pet-friendly. Several books and Internet sites serve as guides for pet-loving accommodations.

Have An Escape Plan: Keep identification tags on your pet. In the event of an escape, the person finding the cat will know whom to contact. Consider leaving a temporary tag with your cell phone number on it, just in case. Also, microchip your pet. Microchips provide universal protection.

Offer A Comfort Zone

If your cat dislikes auto travel of any length or tends to become car sick, speak with your veterinarian about using Dramamine or a similar product to control nausea. A product like Benadryl can make the cat sleepy without the dangers of tranquilization; however, do not use these products without your vet's recommendation.

Short & Sweet

Prior to the trip, take short trips with your kitty in the carrier around the block or to a local store. Plan to return home before the anxiety or motion sickness starts.

Travel By Air

Don't be surprised if you encounter difficulty booking your cat's travel. The Federal Aviation Administration has made security changes since the terrorist attacks that affect how pets are shipped.

Professional pet transporters have the necessary licenses to move pets with the airlines, but only a few airlines will currently still deal directly with the public. Depending on the airline, one or two cats may be allowed in the cabin as a carry-on or can be booked as excess baggage with you on the same flight in the cargo area of the plane.

Many people worry about the safety of their pets during air travel. According to airline estimates, nearly two million pets a year are shipped.

Each year there will be one or two well-publicized accidents to cause concern, but actual airline statistics report less than 30 animal injuries or deaths per year. Most accidents happen due to poor planning, improper crates, tranquilization, or human error. Sometimes things are truly an accident with no one to blame (unless the pet itself is to blame!).

Whether you have help from a professional or do it yourself, certain requirements for air travel need to be met.

Follow The Rules

An airline-approved shipping crate is required. For travel in the cabin, a soft-sided carrier may be used. But for travel as cargo or in the baggage area, the crate must be plastic with a metal door. It should be big enough for the cat to sit up, turn around and lie down.

The less expensive carriers are not the safest. The higher-priced crates are made of sturdier fiberglass, rather than plastic, and have stronger doors that will not fly open.

Each crate must be labeled with live animal stickers, consignee information, feeding instructions, and two dishes attached to the door. These are federal regulations that must be met.

Provide Timely Proof

Every cat needs a health certificate and proof of rabies vaccine. The Animal Welfare Act says the health certificate must be dated no more than 10 days prior to the trip. If it expires a new one will be required.

Say No To Drugs

The American Veterinary Medical Association and the Independent Pet and Animal Transportation Association do not recommend tranquilizing your cat for flying. It is now widely recognized that tranquilizers are the number one cause of illness and death in pets shipped by air.

Several airlines will now also refuse to accept a tranquilized pet. Better to have a pet soil the crate, but arrive safe and sound.

Travel by air is stressful no doubt, but healthy pets survive a few hours of travel quite nicely. Pad the bottom of the carrier with plastic diapers (padding turned up) to help absorb any accidents that might occur.

Weather Restrictions: Understanding Potential Delays

Excessive heat and cold can prohibit pet shipments. Each airline can put an embargo in place to prevent moving a pet when it is less than 45 degrees, or more than 85 degrees at either end or at any stop along the way if they will be exposed to these temperatures for more than 45 minutes.

Professional pet transporters and airlines must abide by these federal regulations. Therefore, even if you have your cat booked to go with you as excess baggage, temperatures may prohibit it from traveling on that day. This is for the health and safety of your pet.

Planning And Alleviating Travel Stress

Planning and common sense can alleviate most of the problems encountered when traveling with your cat. Fluffy may never love traveling, but you can help make it easier. For more complex moves the use of a professional pet transporter for air travel is not the least expensive alternative but maybe the best choice when moving the cat yourself becomes overwhelming.

The Benefits Of Professional Pet Shippers

Professional pet shippers are licensed by the USDA for interstate travel and have a TSA-approved security program. They will handle all the documents for arrangements with the airline and meet the FAA/TSA requirements.

Comprehensive Assistance: Before And After The Journey

If you must travel to the destination before you can send for your pet, oftentimes pet transporters can assist you with obtaining health certificates, veterinary requirements, or boarding.

They will be able to provide shipping crates as well as pick-up and delivery services from home to the airport.

A network of transport specialists may also even allow for a transporter to meet Fluffy upon arrival and deliver her to your new home. Most, but not all, transporters can assist with international relocations.

Navigating International Travel: Dealing With Unique Country Requirements

Each country has its own requirements for pets entering the country. In some instances, only a health certificate is required along with proof of a rabies vaccine. In other countries, it may be a long involved process requiring months of planning and or quarantine once Fluffy arrives.

These transporters are always knowledgeable about these rules and restrictions, after all, that is how they make their living.

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Keep Reading For Our 36 Actionable Tips Below!

Written by Sally Smith

Sally Smith is the Founder and the President of Companion Pet Enterprises, a pet transportation company and company dedicated to advising and helping others in how to move their pets both domestically and internationally. Smith is diversified in skills throughout the pet industry.

Working as a vet tech, animal groomer, and designing a pet care facility that offered all services in one fell swoop including pet transportation, she became the Director there for over 12 years. Her diversified background has allowed her to hold several positions among them serving on the boards for the New Jersey Veterinary Technicians and Assistants, the Independent Pet and Animal Transportation Assoc. and the American Boarding Kennels Association.

Her current clients consist of Microsoft, Johnson & Johnson, and Continental among others. She shares her experiences willingly and wrote this article in an effort to help all involved- the cat, the cat owner, and the transportation companies.

36 Actionable Tips By Our Members

Most cats are not good travelers. They like having their familiar established territory and couldn't care less about seeing the wonders of the Great Beyond. You're not very likely to ever come across a cat sticking its head out the window with its ears flapping in the wind...

But sometimes long-distance traveling with cats is inevitable. If a 20-minute car journey to the vet is a loud vocal nightmare, the prospect of spending long hours on the road with cats in the car can be absolutely terrifying.

Don't lose hope though. People do take their cats on long car trips and you can too.

Here's a collection of thirty-six tips, provided by TCS (TheCatSite.com) members over the years, that will help make road-tripping with cats safer and less stressful.

Expert Tips And Wisdom For Road Trips With Your Furry Friends

On calming composure: tip #1.

Embody tranquility. Remember, cats are astute in sensing human stress. Avoid displaying signs of distress, like raised voices, to ensure their comfort.

The Journey Adjustment: Tip #2

Patience pays. Your cat may need an hour or so to relax in the new environment. A little howling during shorter trips doesn't necessarily translate into a whole day's worth of commotion.

Familiarity and Routine: Tip #3

Habituation helps. Gradually introducing travel routines to kittens or young cats can ease them into long journeys. However, with older cats, avoid adding unnecessary stress with new training.

Securing The Path: Safety Measures For Road Trips With Cats

The carrier rule: tip #4.

Have your cats in a large carrier or dog crate during the entire duration of the drive. Having a cat loose in the car is dangerous to both cats and humans. Road safety first ! The driver should not have to deal with a cat squirming between the pedals or blocking the view of the windshield.

Harness And Leash: Tip #5

Cats should always wear a harness while in the car. Whenever they are removed from their crate or carrier, a leash needs to be securely clipped onto the harness. Train your cats to wear a harness in advance .

Window And Door Safety: Tip #6

Preventive measures are key. Keep cats securely harnessed and leashed before opening any doors or windows.

Rest Stop Routines: Tip #7

Cautious pit stops. Avoid letting cats out during stops unless they are well-trained to walk securely on a harness and leash.

Identity Protection: Tip #8

Have your cats properly ID'd. Their harness should have a name tag with your current mobile phone number on it. Microchipping your cat is also a good idea.

Medication Consultation: Tip #9

Prescription principles. Before medicating your cat for the trip, ensure you consult with your vet. Certain over-the-counter calming agents may not be cat-friendly.

Trial Runs For Medication: Tip #10

Homeward testing. In case of medicating as per vet advice, first, try it at home to check for any adverse reactions.

Ventilation And Temperature Control: Tip #11

Comfort in climate. Ensure your cats are placed in a well-ventilated area of the car, not exposed to strong winds or extreme temperatures.

Unattended Warning: Tip #12

Attention required. Never leave your cats unattended in the car, especially on days of extreme temperatures.

Crafting Comfort: Setting Up A Homely Environment For Cats

Crate comfort: tip #13.

Give your cats room to stretch and move around. Opt for very large carriers, and preferably dog crates.

Car Play: Tip #14

If possible, cage a section of your vehicle and make that into the kitty playpen. Just make absolutely sure no doors or windows in that area can be opened by mistake.

Multiple Cats: Tip #15

If you use large dog crates, you can place more than one cat in each crate, provided the cats get along well with each other.

Vertical Space: Tip #16

Make the most of the vertical dimension of the crate by hanging a cat shelf inside it.

Privacy: Tip #17

Drape a sheet over the cage or crate, leaving one side open. This will make the cats feel more secure, as well as protect them from direct sunlight coming through the car windows.

Accident Prevention: Tip #18

Line the crate with pee pads, in case you have any accidents. Carry extras with you.

Familiar Scents: Tip #19

Place familiar blankets and cushions in the crate.

Cozy Comforts: Tip #20

Place a worn tee shirt of yours in the crate for the cats to have your scent around them.

Calming Scents: Tip #21

Consider using Feliway  - spray the crates or use a diffuser in the car.

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Cat Toys: Tip #22

Take a few cat toys and rotate along the way. This is especially effective with kittens. Don't be offended if your cat avoids playing.

Road Tripping With Cats: Food, Drink, and Litterboxes

Cat entertainment: tip #22.

Many cats do not eat, drink, or poop while on the road. Don't be alarmed by this, and just patiently wait for your final stop at the hotel.

Disposable Litter Box: Tip #24

Keep a small disposable litter pan in the crate. You can use aluminum baking pans and bring along a supply that will last for the duration of the trip.

Handling Accidents: Tip #25

Have wipes and strong plastic bags handy at all times, to handle litter box accidents.

Water Bowl: Tip #26

If you keep a water bowl in the crate, make sure it's deep and put very little water in it. You want to avoid spillage as the car turns and sways.

Alternatives For Water: Tip #27

Consider training your cats to use rabbit water bottles prior to the trip. You can do that by using chicken broth (no onions or garlic in it!) and some water in the bottle or rubbing their favorite moist cat food near the tip of the bottle. If they learn how to drink from that, it's a great way to make water available without risking wetting the bottom of the crate.

Food & Water Timing: Tip #28

If you prefer, you can limit water and food and provide them only during breaks, once every 4-5 hours.

Car Sick Cat: Tip #29

If your cat tends to get car sick, it's best to avoid feeding 2-3 hours prior to travel. You can feed them at night at the hotel. Many cats don't eat and drink during car trips anyway.

Foods: Tip #30

Only provide food your cats are familiar with and tolerate well. This almost goes without saying, but don't try new treats or pamper them with expensive foods that they'd never tried before.

Beyond The Drive: Extra Tips For Road Trips With Cats

Planning accommodation: tip #31.

If your trip is more than a day long, plan ahead for accommodation. Many motels and hotels are pet-friendly, though some ask for extra fees. Most Super 8's and all Motel 6's are pet-friendly. Call in advance to make sure they have room for you and your kitties.

Travel Documentation: Tip #32

Have vet paperwork handy for crossing state lines or borders between countries. Papers are rarely needed for crossing state borders, but at the very least, have proof of your cat being current on her rabies shots.

Handling Cat Communication: Tip #33

Don't let the meowing get to you. Most cats meow like crazy when they get on the road. Most also settle down after an hour at the most and go to sleep. You need to focus on safe driving and ignore the cries.

Driving Sensitivity: Tip #34

Keep your driving relaxed. Don't overtake unless absolutely necessary and take it easy when pulling out. Remember that cats are sensitive to acceleration, deceleration, and sideways motions. Changes in altitude may also affect your cats.

Traveling With Company: Tip #35

If possible, travel with a passenger that can help you take care of the cats.

Safety Awareness: Tip #36

Make sure any travelers are fully aware of safety issues and know not to open any doors or windows unless all cats are properly secured.

Wrapping Up: Journeying With Your Beloved Feline Companions

Navigating the open road with your treasured feline friends doesn't need to be a daunting task. This comprehensive guide has empowered you with the essential tools and knowledge for a smooth and stress-free journey.

Armed with these actionable insights, you're ready for your road trip, ensuring an enjoyable and memorable journey for you and your feline companion. May every mile be a stride toward making precious memories, and may the road always lead you both safely home. Happy travels!

Comments? Leave them using the comment section below. Questions? Please use the cat forums for those!

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Your ultimate guide to flying internationally with a cat: Tips & Essentials

January 28, 2019 by Karen Turner 56 Comments

One of the most challenging experiences that we had in terms of moving abroad was moving our cat. I adopted Lu in the United States at a shelter. Admittedly, she’s not so keen on traveling, but I knew that when we moved abroad that she had to come with us. Since then, she’s traveled with us to four countries following our various moves around Europe by plane and by train. I include my experience traveling with my cat internationally, some tips for traveling with your cat, and my favorite cat traveling accessories, including an airline approved pet carrier.

I urge you not to underestimate how many hours it takes to properly research flying with your cat to your destination as well as preparing them for the move. Cats are creatures of habit and it can be very traumatizing for many cats to be uprooted from their home. I can’t really say that it’s fun traveling with a cat, but sometimes it comes to this when making a significant move abroad with your cat.

• Tips for flying internationally with your cat
• Traveling with multiple cats
• Why you shouldn’t put your cat under the plane

Should you drug your cat for travel?

What you need to do before traveling with your cat.

• Cat traveling essentials

The best airline approved cat carrier

• Our experience flying internationally with a cat on a transatlantic flight
• Our experience flying within the EU with our cat
• Our experience taking the Thalys with a cat

• 1.1 Before you travel with your cat internationally
• 2 Traveling on the plane with your cat
• 3.1 Traveling internationally with multiple cats
• 3.2 Why you should consider NOT putting your cat underneath the plane
• 3.3 Should you drug your cat for travel?
• 4 What you need to do before traveling with your cat
• 5.1 The best airline approved cat carrier
• 5.2 Cat collar
• 5.3 Cat harness*
• 5.4 Folding cat bowls
• 5.5 Calming Spray
• 5.6 Portable Cat Bed*
• 5.7 Portable Litter Box*
• 6 Our experience flying internationally with our cat on a transatlantic flight
• 7 Flying within the EU with a cat
• 8 Taking the Thalys train with our cat
• 9 Have you flown internationally with your cat?

Tips for flying with your cats internationally

Before you travel with your cat internationally.

In general, I recommend not traveling with your cats unless you’re moving for a significant period. Both of my cats do not travel well and if it’s a few weeks, I found that it was better to board them at a facility rather than bring them with me to a destination where the paperwork would make my life more complicated.

In general, it’s generally cheaper to buy a round-trip ticket rather than a one-way ticket. Try to time the way back with when you think you’ll next head home, so you only need to purchase the way back to your new home.

If you intend to fly internationally with your cat, you need to carefully check the requirements of your final destination as well as possible transit destinations. Your cat needs to be healthy in order to fly. I had to first ensure that she was up-to-date on her vaccinations. Talk to your vet .

Some countries require a rabies vaccination to be given a certain amount of time ahead. As a result, you’ll need to plan at least 1-2 months ahead if you’re traveling from a high rabies country as a blood test may need to be done and your cat will need to have their vaccines done in advance. I had to bring my cat in for a check-up shortly before flying in each case to ensure that she was ready.

If you can minimize your travel time, do it by getting a direct flight. Your cat will appreciate it. Your cat will be stressed, hungry, and tired from the travel. Fewer flights will reduce the likelihood that you have a delay or missed transfer.

If you have a rolling suitcase , I recommend putting your cat carrier on top and rolling your suitcase slowly. I’ve tried a couple of ways in terms of minimizing trauma when traveling en route to the airport using public transit/walking and this way worked the best. It’s smooth, your cat is less likely to be jostled within the bag, and they can look out more easily!

If you can travel with your cat in the cabin, do it. I felt so guilty every time that I’ve traveled with Lu, however, it’s a small relief to be able to see how the cat is doing. Your cat might be deeply unhappy, however, at least you can give them water and pet them to calm them if needed. Just be careful about unzipping the bag, so they don’t escape!

Book your cat’s plane ticket in advance. Most airlines that allow animals on board have a limit on how many animals can be brought with you. I had to pay extra to bring Lu as my “carry-on” item and she had to fit in the space near my feet in her carrier.

Traveling on the plane with your cat

As soon as you get on the flight, talk to the flight attendants as well as those around you to check that nobody is allergic. Similarly, it’s good to notify the flight attendants of your furry friend on board just in case something goes wrong.

Keep your cat’s documents with you somewhere that is easily accessible. You might need to show them several times, so don’t put them away in your suitcase. I keep mine in the side pocket of my cat carrier . I have been rarely asked for them, but you never know!

Make sure that your cat carrier has a tag that states your information on it, including your phone number. I made sure that Lu was wearing a collar that stated my phone number on it, just in case she ran off.

The biggest risk in losing your cat is during security when they must be removed from the carrier to be carried through security with you. If you can find a non-metal collar , that’s probably best as you might need to remove the collar during security. I also had a photo of her on my phone, just in case.

Get through security when it’s not so busy and find a quiet place to sit. I recommend giving yourself extra time at the airport. That said, airports are really loud places and if you’ll be there for a while, find a quiet corner away from music, security, and people talking loudly to sit. Your cat will thank you!

Clip your cat’s nail before you travel. You’ll need to carry them through security most likely…and it’s not fun being clawed into with sharp kitty claws.

Avoid feeding your cat 4-6 hours before traveling. I caved during my flight with Lu and gave her a treat, which resulted in her pooping (a small bit) in the litter box. Obviously, for cats, this is not comfortable. I recommend carrying a small folding cat bowl that can be used for water if needed. I bought a water bottle once through security just to give Lu water as needed.

Once you arrive at your destination with your cat

Once you’re somewhere less chaotic and enclosed, let your cat out. They’ll probably be a bit traumatized from the journey as well as hungry/thirsty. The sooner that you can get a litter box, the better as they’ll probably need it.

Check with your hotel that it’s cat-friendly before you go . I find that dog-friendly hotels are often surprised that you want to bring a cat, but you’ll pay a premium for finding a cat-friendly hotel . Even if they say that they’re pet-friendly, not all will accept cats.

On average, you’ll pay 30-40% extra with the majority of hotels telling you no. It’s frustrating, but book your hotels/accommodation in advance as soon as you know your traveling dates. I always try to emphasize that my cat is very well behaved and doesn’t go outside.

Travel can be really hard on cats and it can take your cat weeks to get used to your new home. If possible, try to move slowly to avoid changing accommodations too often as they’ll want to be at home. I recommend looking for places with good windows (like our Paris apartment).

Traveling internationally with multiple cats

An acquaintance of mine contacted me about my experience moving abroad as she was moving with her two cats and one small dog. Airlines usually allow one pet per person, so she found out that it was cheaper to pay for a close friend’s round-trip ticket to her new home (e.g. a free vacation) than it was to have someone else bring her dog. Her friend got a free trip out of it and she got to bring her cats with her.

Why you should consider NOT putting your cat underneath the plane

Quite a few cat breeds, especially Persians, may have issues related to breathing and heat stroke. Putting certain cats into cargo may be a bad idea. Even if your cat is a mutt like mine, your cat might be hyperventilating during the flight. Coming with the uncertainty of not knowing what is going on and the sounds, your cat might be really anxious underneath the plane and/or have issues during the flight.

Some carriers will report the percentage of animals in their care that were injured or killed in transit. Choose carefully if you are considering putting your cat underneath the plane. Ask around if possible.

Lu tends to hyperventilate when on a plane and inside a car, so I opted to take longer to travel with her if it meant having her with me to check on her, even if there was a layover. I ended up going with Aeroflot due to their cat-friendly policy, which allowed her to sit near my feet!

Talk to your vet about your travel plans. I’ve seen several vets about traveling with my cat. Only one of them recommended drugging my cat for travel while the rest said that it was enough just to use a calming spray . There are a number of other drugs, but you should discuss what is most appropriate with your vet.

Generally, cats are given something similar to Xanax (benzodiazepines) if they’ll be traveling a long distance. This is what my cat had gotten prescribed for our U.S. to Netherlands move, however, it left her disoriented and unable to sleep. Since then, I’ve not used a drug.

• 6 Months ahead: Book your cat’s plane ticket and find a cat-friendly airline.
• 5 months ahead: Find out your airline’s paperwork requirements for flying with your cat. Your cat might need to be microchipped with a different chip if it’s not the same where you’re traveling.
• 2 Months ahead: Talk to your vet about your travels. Ensure that your cat’s vaccines are up to date.
• 1-2 months ahead: Ensure that your cat’s travel documents are up-to-date. Possibly see the vet and make relevant appointments shortly before your travels.
• 1-2 months ahead: Organize relevant transportation (buses don’t usually allow cats) and cat-friendly accommodations in your new destination.
• 1 Month out: Buy a good cat carrier , calming spray , cat collar , a cat harness , and other relevant supplies (see below)
• 1 Month out: Call your airline to check that all is well.
• 2-3 weeks ahead: Take care of relevant travel documents (if required)
• Week of travel: Check-up with your vet to ensure that your cat is healthy to fly. Clip your cat’s nails.
• The day before travel: Give your cat a nice meal 12 hours before! Organize your cat’s travel documents. Spray the carrier with Feliway and leave it out for them to explore.
• Day of travel: Stop feeding your cat 6 hours before your travels. Get the cat into the carrier. Leave early for the airport. Keep calm and try to find somewhere quiet.
• Day of arrival: Buy litterbox and cat litter once you arrive. (You can bring a small litter box with you if you arrive late at night) Feed your cat and let them relax/sleep.

Cat essentials for flying internationally

I got this bag around five years ago. This Argo by Teafco Pet Avion Airline Approved Pet Carrier perfectly fits my cat (who is on the smaller side) and it’s built cleverly. Inside, you’ll find a leash that hooks into your cat’s collar as to ensure they can’t escape the bag. Similarly, there’s a way for you to reach your hand inside without the cat escaping if you wish to calm them. There are several pockets around the bag, which can fit Feliway, travel documents, and cat travel accessories.

Most importantly, I love this bag as people assume that it’s a carry-on bag, not a cat bag. Travel is stressful enough for my cat and having strangers trying to pet her doesn’t help. She can look out of the bag through the mesh sides without people peeking in, which has been great for international travel with a cat. ( In quite a few cases, I was never asked about the cat as they didn’t realize I had a cat with me.)

In general, I recommend getting a soft cat carrier if you’ll be flying internationally as your cat needs to fit underneath the seat in front of you. If your cat is larger, you’ll want to get a larger bag to ensure they have room to move around. There might be some squishing of the carrier, so it’s much easier to have a soft bag. (Every vet that I’ve seen in Europe has asked me where I got this bag.)

I recommend ensuring that your cat has a cat collar as you’ll probably want to use the collar to clip your cat into the bag (if possible) and/or connect them to the cat leash. You might need to remove your cat collar if it contains metal, so choose carefully. If you can attach your phone number to the collar, that’s great. Ensure that it’s snug, but not too tight.

Cat harness*

Your cat might be frustrated inside of the bag. I found the cat harness to be helpful, however it’s really hard getting your cat into a cat harness in the middle of an airport. A handicap-accessible toilet might be a good option if you want to get your cat into a harness. In my case, I attached the harness directly to her collar to ensure she wouldn’t wander off.

Folding cat bowls

You cat might get thirsty during the journey and once you arrive at your destination, you’ll want to feed your cat. It was really helpful having folding cat bowls as it enabled my cat to eat as soon as we got cat food. (I brought some with me in a plastic bag.)

Calming Spray

Feliway has helped my cats travel. This spray mimics cats pheromones given off by mothers to help calm kittens. It can help reduce stress in some cases. I recommend putting an item of your clothing that smells like you and spraying it with Feliway before putting it at the bottom of the carrier.

Portable Cat Bed*

As I had to get rid of the cat bed that my cat loved, I ended up buying a smaller foldable cat bed that was in my house for a few weeks before my travels. My cat liked it as it was a good way for her to feel safe in a new environment. Similarly, it was squishy enough that I used it as a pillow in transit.

Portable Litter Box*

If you’re arriving late at night, you’ll want to bring a portable litter box with you as litter is typically easier to get at some late night shops/supermarkets, however you generally need to go to a pet store for the litter box.

Our experience flying internationally with our cat on a transatlantic flight

My first international flight with my cat was flying from New York to Amsterdam via Moscow. When moving to Amsterdam, flying Aeroflot with the cat was our best option for an affordable airline that allowed cats in the cabin. It took many hours to find a flight that would allow her in the cabin, but that was non-negotiable.

In our case, the paperwork involved my vet gave her an examination clearing her for flying prior to submitting the paperwork to a federal agency to be stamped. Ask your vet for the procedure for where you’re traveling. Some airlines have limited space for animals, so you should ensure that you reserve your cat’s place in advance. I reserved my cat’s place as soon as my ticket was booked.

On the day of our flight, we showed the paperwork as we checked our bags and headed through security. Security was difficult as Lu is very noise-sensitive and the various noises did not help at all. I was forced to take her out of the carrier as I went through the metal detector. She was very scared and clung to me. Once we were through security, she calmed down a bit.

Once on the plane, we asked everyone around if they were allergic to cats. (The passengers and the flight attendants doted over us and asked to pet her.) It was very painless. She was very quiet although very anxious during the flight. I checked on my cat at several points and she was too upset to sleep. As per our vet’s recommendation, we avoided feeding her during the plane ride and withheld food 4-6 hours before our flight.

Finally, once we arrived in Moscow for our layover. We put her on a cat leash and let her sit on one of the seats. She immediately curled up and took a small nap. Nearby, two burly Russian guys took selfies with her. On the next flight, she meowed quite a bit, but we managed to get to Amsterdam. We immediately went out and bought a litterbox for her as it was day-time.

Flying within the EU with a cat

If you’re traveling within or from the EU with your cat, I strongly recommend seeing if you can get your cat an EU pet passport . It will make your life a lot easier as it shows their complete medical record as well as recent examinations. Just a few days before our flight, we brought her to a vet for a pre-flight examination as required by our airline, who we booked her ticket through.

Last summer, we lived in Brussels while waiting for our French visas. We ended up flying with BlueAir, a budget European airline to Romania and France. The process was fairly decent as my cat already had an EU pet passport. She simply had to get examined by a vet in the days prior to the flight to clear her for health. At this point, she was up-to-date on her vaccinations.

I had Lu on a leash clipped to her collar. The most stressful part was security where one of the employees required that I take the collar off. I had to carry her through airport security, which was an immensely stressful experience for both of us. She tried at one point to jump back into her box as it passed through security.

The flight itself was fine, however we flew twice with her. It was quite hard on her and given the option, I prefer to take the train. That said, you will have limited options as most of the major bus companies in Europe do not allow cats on them, which is quite aggravating as a pet owner.

Taking the Thalys train with our cat

I’ve taken the Thalys with my cat between Belgium and the Netherlands and France and the Netherlands. Cats were free and allowed when I traveled, however I had to have all my cat’s documents in order (similar to a plane). She had stay underneath the seat.

When boarding the Thalys, you’ll need to scan your items. It was quite nerve-wracking going through the security line in Paris, which as outside next to the train tracks. I had to remove Lu from her bag and carry her through security. It was loud and I’d be a bit apprehensive about doing this with a cat who tends to run when they’re scared.

Once on the Thalys, I found my seat. The journey was uneventful and at one point, the conductor asked about the cat. On one journey, a woman next to me refused to sit next to me as I had a cat. (She was pregnant.) I was a bit confused, but she moved across the way with the permission of the conductor. The journey was easy and my cat was far more relaxed than traveling by slower trains and flying.

Have you flown internationally with your cat?

• More tips for traveling with your cat

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

May 15, 2019 at 8:44 pm

do you have a recommendation of a vet in The Hague who is familiar with what is needed for cat “import”? will be bringing my fluffy friends and want to be sure I have all the proper docs up front. I am not in an EU country right now so they don’t know the regulations.

May 16, 2019 at 3:49 pm

Hi Molly, You should be able to ring basically any vet in the center of the Hague. I”m not sure if they’ll help you as you’re not a client (maybe if you promise to become a client!), but you should definitely check with your airline too. Depending on whether the country is high rabies, you might need to do an extra paperwork. There’s some good information on the various pet transit websites and it’s so different by country that I can’t say for sure. Best of luck moving to NL! 🙂

June 9, 2019 at 10:11 pm

I suggest you contact the nearest consulate or embassy for the Netherlands, they should be able to help you. Otherwise, their should be the correct info on their government website or the corresponding EU website. I am moving to France from the USA and found clear instructions on the French government and EU sites. On the latter, I was able to print out the documents which needed to be filled out by the vet in the country of departure (with instructions on how it should be filled out) and also a copy of the EU pet passport which you can print out. Your cat will need to be microchipped with an EU approved chip and also have its rabies vaccine up to date. If the cats aren`t vaccinated for rabies they have to have a primo vaccine and may have to have a titration (?) done by an approved lab 3 months before travelling. I`d advise you to look into this as soon as possible as there may be time limitations for some procedures. Best of luck with your move!

December 12, 2020 at 2:59 am

There are U.S. Veterinarians that are specialized on preparing the needed documents and doing the health exam within 10 days of flight. Not every vet does this but every community has one. We have reserved the cat spaces 6 weeks prior to the flight (during Covid). It is true, if your cat does not have rabies shot yet, you need more time for preparing the transfer, one has to wait 21 days for the rabies shot before being able to travel. One has to submit the documents to the animal export department of your state, which provides a quick turnaround with courier service. If you stay in Europe and travel with your pet there for a while we recommend getting a European animal passport through a vet there. Some countries (Switzerland) are annoyed looking at the U.S. documents and feel suspicious about them or don’t take the effort to understand them. Once the agent did not want to check us on the flight from Zurich to Greece… until her supervisor did a great job in understanding the U.S. health certification papers. This can be stressful.

June 9, 2019 at 10:13 pm

Thank you for all this great info Karen. I have traveled to several countries with dogs (diplomat husband) but never with a cat, you have helped a lot and reassured me!

July 1, 2019 at 3:46 pm

I have 3 cats and will be making the daunting move from UK to Canada. It will be close to impossible for me to have all 3 with me on the plane (Probably 1 can go with me – as she is the most nervous) but they will have to sit in the belly of the plane. i have discussed arrangements with PetAir, but after reading your blog speaking on dead pets absolutely worries me. Have you any tips on how I can go around this?

Many thanks

July 2, 2019 at 11:07 am

Apologies, but I don’t have any easy answers. Can a friend help you with the move to bring another cat on the plane?

September 17, 2020 at 8:40 pm

I have just been reading this blog for some reassurance and panicked at the same part you did. I am doing Canada to the UK in the next few weeks and it’s basically impossible for me to have my cat in the cabin with me due to UK laws. He also has to do two flights in two days due to the current flight situation with COVID. How did your cats do on the journey? I’m terrified something is going to happen to him and I won’t be aware. My cat is only 2 years old and healthy but I’m still so very nervous about it all!

March 25, 2021 at 4:07 pm

I am confused as I have fo fly two cats from DC to Brussels. When I get there I have to take them to hotel take and then to a vet for EU passport right?How do I do that and how long does it take as I have to take a nother flight out? Can you leave airport without a passport?

May 10, 2021 at 2:34 pm

I’d check with your airline as the EU passport is generally for cats already within the EU. It’s a good thing to get long-term once you have a vet. It takes quite a bit of paperwork/time though!

June 9, 2022 at 10:48 pm

Thanks for all this recommendations and insights, even so we have some questions not sure if yourw famiwith:

Were curre3in The Hague and will be moving to Bangkok in August and we have 2 cats. They can only for with KLM on the Cargo, and for that we need special cages that should be IATA approved, but we seem to find it difficult to find them here in Europe as to be 100% approved as they must have metal screws and so on ( do you know any approved one?)

Then the papers are of a different issue, and I think we can deal with it!

December 1, 2022 at 8:54 pm

I am sure PetPlus should have a good cage. If you have already moved, I would love to know how it went!

July 4, 2019 at 12:44 pm

Hi Karen…some great tips. Just curious to know how a 15 pound cat is able to fit Beneath the seat, in a carrier. Can one simply purchase an additional ticket? Thanks

July 4, 2019 at 1:10 pm

Hi Ric, I recommend asking your airline as the weight requirement varies by airline. 🙂

Best of luck, Karen

August 12, 2021 at 3:36 am

I traveled from Italy to Us with three cats. My big boy Orly also weighed 15 pounds. He did not make the requirements for under seat, so in the end I had to put them on in the as cargo in the hold to be able to take all 3 together. It was so stressful and very expensive. Especially nerve wracking as by law at least in 2014 , could not be on a flight longer than 10 hours. So we had to fly through a Eu city that had special overnight animal accommodation, which I was not allowed to check in on them as they were considered cargo. They do get fed and cleaned checked by a vet at this point. When I got on board in the morning, I asked the flight attendant to confirm for me they made it on board, and soon the captain made an announcement: “to the lady with the cats, I confirm they are all on board! ” It all went fine, we arrived in San Fransisco, and it is still a bit of an ordeal to get the customs approval stamped and driving here and there to pick them up. Withstanding restrictions for traveling in very hot or cold weather also. I would try anything else to try and bring them on board in cabin, and finding the most direct route, or one that has a comfortable layover. They do make very light weight, ( a couple of pounds) carriers so he might just make the cut. If you have a long time you could put him on a careful diet to lose a pound ( but slowly!) I am about to return after several years with just one, who is fortunately in the weight category so I found a flight combination with a long enough layover to go to.a hotel and refresh before the next leg.

July 26, 2019 at 10:14 pm

That’s a good idea to work closely with your vet for how to get your pet onto the plane and how to reserve a spot for them. My best friend doesn’t like to leave her cat during vacations so I’ll have to make sure she knows this. For me, I’d rather leave my cat behind at the vet’s boarding quarters so that I know she’s taken care of and doesn’t have to deal with the toll and stress of flying.

October 6, 2019 at 8:12 am

We have to get our cat ( and a snake) from Australia to the UK – this is not going to be fun!

October 25, 2019 at 10:32 pm

Thank you so much for this information. We are relocating to Ireland from the US next year with our two cats. I am worried about the travel but feel a bit more confident having read about your experience and tips. One of my cats meowed the whole way on a four hour car trip once, so I’m hoping the Feliway will help her, otherwise I may have to look into other options as I’m sure that will not be acceptable on a 10 hour flight. We also have two 5 year old children to contend with so it should be an adventure for sure! And I am getting that cat carrier! Thanks again.

October 27, 2019 at 10:39 am

Glad to hear that Brenda! Talk to your vet as they might have some recommendations.

March 1, 2022 at 12:26 am

Hey Brenda, we’re transporting a 5.4kg cat from Mexico to Ireland: how did you find your experience? It’s becoming a massive challenge for us, both in paperwork and maintaining our sanity. We want it to be as easy as possible for our little baby: have you any tips?

December 23, 2019 at 11:51 pm

I’m moving to Paris for three months with my Exotic Shorthair kitten, Waldo. He’s very social and has traveled by plane, but I am counting on total time door to door from my West Coast home t my Paris apartment will likely be about 18 hours. He has his rabies shot, and all his vaccinations are up to date. I plan a visit with my vet in March (our flight is in early April).

Do you know of any good pet supply stores in Paris? I will be bringing almost none of Waldo’s equipment, and plan to buy a scratching post, litter box, and maybe a climbing tree in Paris. I’ll bring a portable littler box and bag of litter on the plane, his food bowl, and his favorite blanket. CDG is the world’s worst airport for humans, and I dread negotiating it with a 12 pound kitten (Waldo is enormous!)

Our apartment is in St. Germaine in the 6éme arrondissement. Any help or additional tips you have will be greatly appreciated. We are flying business class on Delta, so I believe Waldo will have a somewhat quiet, safe little space for this long long flight.

December 24, 2019 at 12:25 am

I went to my neighborhood ones, which weren’t within the 6e. You will be best to ask within the local Paris expat group for others’ recommendations. Best of luck with the move and hopefully Waldo will enjoy his new Parisian apartment. 🙂

July 7, 2020 at 8:21 pm

Thank you SO MUCH! My husband and I are making a Trans-Atlantic move soon & this is the most thorough & *actually* helpful guide I’ve found.

July 28, 2020 at 4:57 am

Hi, I am Curious if the airline staff will allow the cat to be out of her cage for few minutes. I know my cat will be way more secure if I have her on my lap (with leash so others are not afraid of her). She is not an aggressive cat AT ALL! We’re you allowed to take your cat out during a long flight?

July 29, 2020 at 7:31 pm

I was told strictly that I wasn’t allowed to let my cat out.

August 16, 2020 at 11:49 pm

i’m considering a move to london from nyc. do you know which airlines allow in-cabin cats on transatlantic flights? so far, it seems all of the major carriers (united, british airways, virgin atlantic, american airlines, norwegian, etc.) only allow cargo transport which is a no-go.

thanks! melody

August 22, 2020 at 12:15 am

Apologies, but this list frequently changes. Best to check which airlines fly between the destination–and go through all of their policies

August 4, 2021 at 4:27 pm

Did you manage to fly your cat? Turkish Airlines allows cats, plus 2 luggages as checked in bag, they are the best for US-Europe travel

August 28, 2020 at 3:52 pm

Did your vet mention any risks with traveling even when they are in the cab of the plane? Do some cats get so stressed that they die from the long flight?

My cat is 16 now and I’m not sure if her age would cause problems traveling that far. I’m wondering if it would be a bad idea to take an older cat that far

September 15, 2020 at 1:33 am

Yes, there are risks associated with flying with older cats. This is why you should discuss the issue with your vet.

January 15, 2021 at 9:20 am

thanks so much for this information! We have to fly cats from the east coast of the US to France this coming summer. Do you have any recommendations for airlines. Is Air France possible? Also, of course, we are going to have to fly in the middle of this pandemic. Any suggestions as to the best way to do this? We are French citizens with US passports also, so we are authorized to fly between the two countries. But, I’m looking at this as being a nightmare scenario. All the best and many thanks, Valerie

March 19, 2021 at 2:58 pm

Apologies, but it’s really hard as some have suspended pet services during COVID. You will need to contact each airline, but I believe KLM might allow cats and AirFrance/KLM are technically one company 🙂

March 10, 2021 at 9:02 pm

Hi – Thanks so much for all this great info! I’ve been stressed about our upcoming move from Canada to India with 2 cats (with one having a heart condition). The whole journey could take 24-30 hours total but we are hoping to fly with them. In your experience, what might be the longest flight duration a cat can handle? We will probably have 1 or more connecting flights with the transatlantic flight being about 12-14 hours long. I am concerned about them pooping/peeing on such a long flight. Also, during layovers are there pet areas at airports where cats can poop/pee? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks once again for such insightful information.

June 9, 2022 at 4:28 pm

Hello, can you share how it went, I am travelling my self 24hs journey by plane too, and I have the same questions you had before. Thank you so much in advance!

July 23, 2021 at 8:03 pm

Thank you! Onni and I are about to take our first flight from Finland for a 6-month work stint in the UK, and I’m reading everything I can find. In case other readers are facing having to take their cat to the UK “as cargo” due to its entry rules, here’s a tip: you can fly into Paris with your cat and then hire a service to drive you both through the Eurotunnel, following proper customs procedures. It is NOT an inexpensive service, but in my case it worked out pretty much the same price as cargo. Our vehicle will have a large crate that Onni can move around in with his travel litter tray and bed.

August 6, 2021 at 10:20 am

Hello! Thanks so much for all the information you shared! I plan to travel from Austria to Brazil with my cat in a few months. I have some questions regarding the transatlantic flights. Did you feed your cat during the long flights? And what about peeing and pooping? I read in many blogs that it’s extremely dangerous for cats if they don’t eat anything in 8 hours, that could damage their liver. Could you share more information about it? Thanks!

March 17, 2022 at 9:46 pm

Please ask your vet for advice here. 🙂

September 30, 2021 at 3:42 pm

Hi Karen, thanks for this very helpful and informative piece! You mentioned that if going away for just a few weeks, it may be better to find boarding or a pet sitter as cats are sensitive to changes in their environment. I will be away visiting family in Europe for six weeks over the holidays, making two stops in two different countries (thanks for the info on the pet passport!) What is the duration of time away that you personally consider bringing your cats traveling with you? I am collecting different opinions as I don’t think there is one “right” answer to this question, and it could also depend on the cat.

March 17, 2022 at 10:01 pm

I try not to travel with my cats as they do not enjoy it. They stay at home. I would only bring them personally if I was going for more than 2 months or moving permanently.

October 5, 2021 at 4:29 am

Hi, I’m traveling from Dubai to Italy with a stop in Amsterdam and the company told me the second flight would be late of 3h, my concern is the trip would be 15h. My cat 1 and half year.old and he’s scared of everything. There’s any per friend zone in Amsterdam airport? Also the carrier bag looks small for my cat for such a long trip. I want to be able somehow to take him out and make him feel more comfortable. Also should I feed him in the time I wait the second plane ? I won’t leave my cat 24h without eating. I’m very worried.

March 17, 2022 at 10:02 pm

There is a place for dogs, but not for cats in Amsterdam. If you have a leash or ask staff, potentially that is something that can happen. Airports are busy, so I am not sure that taking your cat out is always the best move either. Please ask your vet for advice.

January 21, 2022 at 8:32 pm

I’ve held off moving back to the US from Australia because I was terrified to have my cats on such a long flight. This has helped a bit thank you, but I think I’m the one who will need Xanax not my cats! Anyone have tips for the parent on how to cope? Or what to do if your cat meows the whole time? I swear I’m more stressed out than they’ll probably be.

March 17, 2022 at 10:16 pm

I felt the same, but I hope that your journey goes well. I was stressed too, but it will stress your cat out more if you are stressed out!

February 15, 2022 at 4:59 pm

This has been super helpful! I am preparing to fly my cat from the UK to Singapore via Amsterdam. I had been reading that you can ask for a security search in a separate examination room and I was really hoping that would be the case, I take it you found airport security quite unforgiving with having to carry Lu through? Thanks Zoe

March 17, 2022 at 9:43 pm

It depends on the cat. They were kind, but she was just scared and very skittish. A private room might be a good idea for some cats!

April 19, 2022 at 11:25 pm

Hi Karen, Thank you for this well written and thorough article. Can I DM you for specific questions that I have? -Deepika

April 21, 2022 at 2:44 pm

I am not flown in a long time with my cats, so I would encourage you to contact your airline!

June 19, 2022 at 12:18 am

Hello Thank you for the tips ,I am going to travel with my cat this summer from Stockholm to Los Angles with a direct flight for 12 hours,I plan to take some food and littler box to use it during the flight but reading your article I understand that I should not feed my cat during flight?! And no litter box needed I was wondering how it is possible since I thin my trip door to door is around 18 hours can you please explain more how to take care of the cat during flight also can I bring out of her box little bit during flight ?!

December 1, 2022 at 9:07 pm

That is a really long flight! Please ask your vet as it might be tough for the cat to go so long. I was advised not to feed my cat before and she was too nervous to go, but she had to go really badly when we got home!

July 20, 2022 at 6:58 pm

Hello, In a couple of months I will have a terror flight with my 3 cats and 3 toddlers (4, 2, and 2 years old) . My mom is going to help me but am really afraid of the mess I will cause with the cats and the kids… We will fly from Mexico to Spain. One of the cats is really large and tends to be aggressive (he is 10 years old) I wonder if it is safe to make him sleep during the flight. We will have to take 2 flights, one domestic in Mexico and then the international. Total flight time will be approx 13 hs. All recommendations are well appreciated.

December 1, 2022 at 8:59 pm

I would recommend to talk to your vet or maybe arrange special transport for the one cat?

September 29, 2022 at 8:43 pm

We flew from Arizona to Portland (3 hours total) with 2 cats when we moved and it was a nightmare. They cried loudly the whole way. I felt for them plus it was embarrassing. We had the spray (not that one though) and even used some relaxer drug (but were afraid to give them too much). Im not sure if Im brave enough to try it again, especially internationally.

December 26, 2022 at 12:38 pm

I recently flew from my home in eastern Pennsylvania with my 2 year old cat the journey: took Uber from home to phl airport (2 hours) then a 3 hour wait at phl then 13 hour flight (on qatar airways) to doh and then 2 hour layover in doh and then 6.5 hour flight to Bangkok another 2 hours to get through customs and 1 hour to get to my destination in Bangkok. So doing the crude math my girl was in transit for well over 30 hours and she came through great! I give kudos to quatar airlways for her travel. One other thing I had a apple air tag on her collar which was helpful as I got a signal from it while in layover in Doha

March 3, 2023 at 7:45 pm

THANK YOU!!!

March 25, 2023 at 8:13 pm

Hi – My daugher has been living in Amsterdam for the past year and this summer, we are bringing her cat to her to live with her there. (btw, we are traveling from the US and total flight including layover will be about 12 hours). We will get all the necessary documents from the vet for her cat, however, my concern is his carrier for the flight. My daughter has a great one she has used when she has flown domestically (under seat in cabin with her), but I’m afraid it won’t fit the requirements for the airline for the international flight.Her cat is 13.5 lbs and fits fine in the carrier, but am afraid if I get s smaller one, they will say it is too small for him to move around…any suggestions? The current carrier is a Petsfit backpack carrier. Thanks for any suggestions.

April 3, 2023 at 2:41 pm

The airline requirements are what matter most at the end!

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Traveling with a Cat in a Car Long Distances

You are probably already familiar with traveling with your cat.  This time it isn’t just for a stroll around the block or a quick vet visit.  You might be going a lot farther like across the country, or even to the mountains to go camping. 

If you’re going to be traveling with a cat in a car long distance then there are a few extra things you will need to know and prepare for.  Take a look and see how to prepare to travel long distances with your cat.

Table of Contents

Plan Your Trip

Before going out on your long distance journey there are a few things needed to be done.  Once you have decided where you will be going with your cat the next step is to make sure you bring all the proper supplies.  What does this entail you ask? 

Any item that you will need to keep your cat safe and healthy.  Items you might bring are treats, food, a cat carrier, and many other essential items that are needed for both you and your cat to have a safe trip depending on the location.

Items to Bring for Your Cat When Traveling Far

The first essential item you will need when traveling a long distance is a cat carrier.  If you are unfamiliar with cat carriers then you can check out my article about the best cat carrier for long distance travel .  The next thing you should probably bring is some sort of cat harness and leash.  If you don’t want to keep your cat cooped up in a carrier the whole time then this is what you will need.  A harness and leash will keep your cat safe and secure wherever you may be going.

Don’t forget to bring a litter box!  The last thing you want to forget is your cat’s bathroom.  If you are using a carrier then it would be best to purchase one that will fit inside otherwise you will need to put them in the litter box every so often to let them empty their bladder.

If you know for a fact that your cat will not calm down during the long travel then it is probably best to sedate them.  Sedating your cat before traveling will make it much easier on the both of you.  If you need more information about this topic I have written an article you can read about  how to sedate a cat for travel .

Don’t forget to bring familiar items from home like toys or blankets.  Bringing familiar objects from home will also help keep your cat calm.  The item itself isn’t what will calm your cat down.  It’s the familiar scent that is on the item you bring that will help with your cats behavior.  Also don’t forget to bring some sort of collar with his I.D. tag on it in case he were to get lost.  Some collars have a gps tracker, but those can be a bit pricey.  Although you can’t put a price on your cat if he ever goes missing while you are traveling.

Make Sure Your Cat Is Used to a Cat Carrier

Depending on the type of cat you have will determine how long it will take him to get used to it.  Some cats actually enjoy traveling and will adjust to it quite easily.  If your cat, on the other hand, does not enjoy it then here are a few tips you can do to help ease them into it. 

When you first get your cat carrier make sure to leave it in plain view with the door open.  Do not put your cat into it just yet.  We want to ease them into it.  They will most likely be curious and start checking it out.  This is normal.  Eventually your cat will wander inside the carrier once they feel there is no threat.  Once your cat is comfortable with going inside the carrier you can start to put him in the car with it.

Tips for Getting a Difficult Cat into a Carrier

If you have a difficult cat then there are a few ways you can get them inside the carrier.  The first thing you can try is giving them treats.  Simply give your cat a few treats when he exhibits good behavior towards the carrier.  Then go ahead and place a few treats on the inside.  Once your cat is inside the carrier you can go ahead and reward them with another treat.  This method rewards good behavior and teaches your cat that he is doing the right thing by going inside of his carrier.

If you have a very aggressive cat that won’t get into the carrier then you can wrap them in a blanket or towel and place them into the carrier that way.  Make sure to do this in a small room or bathroom to prevent your cat from running off and hiding. 

If you don’t want to wrap them in a towel or blanket you can simply use a pillowcase.  Just be sure to not close the other end of the pillow case while they are inside or they can suffocate.  This will give you enough time to place them inside the carrier hopefully unharmed.

Can I Take My Cat in the Car Without a Carrier?

Yes you sure can.  If all else fails and you think it would be easier to travel without a carrier then you must use a harness and leash setup.  You will need to make sure your cat is secure by tying the leash around the bottom of the seat or the safety hooks provided for children car seats. 

This will help keep your cat safe during your long trip.  It’s best to start with small trips to see how your cat will react without a carrier before taking them on longer trips.

Introducing Your Cat to Your Car

Once your cat is comfortable enough with his carrier you can place him inside the car.  Start small by turning on the car and just idling to see how your cat responds to all the extra sounds.  Try turning on the radio to see if it will help calm them down or make it worse. 

Once your cat seems comfortable you can take a small trip around the block and judge how he does.  If he shows heightened signs of anxiety or motion sickness then you will be better prepared on what to expect on longer car rides.

What to Expect During the Trip

Once you and your cat are comfortable enough with the carrier and the car it’s time to go on your trip.  Be sure to have gathered all the supplies you will be bringing with you.  If using a cat carrier then safely secure it in the back or front seat based on your preference.  If you will be traveling without a carrier then be sure your cat is securely fastened to a harness with a leash.

It isn’t uncommon for your cat to get motion sickness during a car ride.  Motion sickness in cats is very similar to what us humans get.  I have written an article on ways to help with motion sickness that you can read called how to prevent motion sickness in cats .  This article will help prepare you and your cat in case this were to happen.

It is also best to avoid feeding your cat a big meal right before a trip.  Traveling on a full stomach can contribute to motion sickness and vomiting.  Feeding them too much will put them at a greater risk for motion sickness.  It’s best to give them something small if you are planning on traveling a long distance with few stops.

Don’t forget to pull over every so often to give your cat water.  Water is very important for you cat especially when they are in a heightened state of anxiety.  Traveling will usually cause heightened anxiety which can contribute to dehydration.  If you do not know the signs and symptoms of anxiety in cats I have written an article explaining it more in depth.  Check out my article called symptoms of anxiety in cats for more information.

Taking Your Cat Into A Hotel

There will come a time while you are traveling when you will need to stop at a hotel with your cat.  Before booking a hotel it would be a good idea to make sure you know what hotels are pet friendly.  You might also want to check out how to pet proof your room before bringing your cat inside.  You can check out my article here called how to make a hotel room cat friendly .

I have also researched a few hotels for you that are pet friendly to save you some time:

Kimpton Hotels Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

Best Western Fairmont Hotels and Resorts La Quinta Holiday Inn

Candlewood Suites Red Roof Inn Motel 6 Ace Hotel

If you want to do your own research for pet friendly hotels you can check out the following link.  You are able to search by city and state:  https://hotels.petswelcome.com/

Don’t Forget About Car Safety

Be sure to keep all the doors closed and do not open them until your cat is secured in a cat carrier or a harness.  Opening a car door while your cat is loose can be a huge mistake.  This is one of the leading causes for losing a cat while traveling. 

Your cat will most likely be in an unfamiliar area and will not be able to find their way back to you or the car.  In case of an event like this it would be smart to have some sort of gps tracker like a collar in order to locate your car.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with a cat in a car long distance doesn’t have to be difficult.  If you do the right research and take the right precautions then everything should go smoothly. 

Traveling with your cat shouldn’t be taken lightly.  Make sure you take the time to get the proper equipment as well as training before going out.

Related Posts

Can i take my cat to the beach our best tips and tricks, how to get a scared cat to the vet, how to keep a cat cool in a car, leave a comment:.

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How To Travel Long Distances with Multiple Cats

We know that all cat parents consider their kitties to be part of their families. If you are planning to travel long distances because of holidays, your new job, or because of family reasons, in this article you will find answers to all your questions.

Do you really need to travel long distances with a kitty?

Valuing their own comfort and security, surrounded by familiar scents and sounds, any travel – even a short vet visit – can be a big deal for fluffy balls and can cause unnecessary stress. Studies on cats’ transportation show that travelling can cause stress in pets, and thus needs to be well considered.

If you are planning vacations and thinking as to whether to travel long distances with your fluffy ball, you can consider alternatives to long distance travel such as engaging your friends or other family members to take care of the kitty, or rehoming them, finding a pet-sitter, or arranging the cat’s stay in a boarding facility. Pet parents need to consider all situations and solutions, particularly when their cat is in their golden age, has health-related issues that need to be under control, is pregnant, or their age is less than 8 months.

YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN: Checklists for cat sitters in Meowpassion shop on Etsy

Travelling long distances – essential guide

When deciding on travelling long distances with cats, careful preparation, planning and management are always required to minimize stress in cats, any disease transition and ensure your pet’s comfort. 

Tip#1 – always check the distance and how many hours you might need to reach your final destination. After 6 hours of drive, it is recommended to have a 1-hour stop to enable your kitty to go about their business, feeding and drinking. If you continue your drive for longer than 6 hours, then you need to have an 11-hour rest before your next journey.

If you will be travelling with kittens, then you can drive 7 hours maximum with a 2-hour stop. As research indicates, a midway stop provides rest by decreasing cortisol and thus lowering stress levels in pets.

Tip#2 – you need to know where cat-friendly (pet-friendly) hotels are while you will be travelling, if they impose any additional fees per cat, or if they charge per night or the whole stay, so you can understand how expensive a hotel will be if you stay there with multiple cats.

Tip#3 – before the trip visit your vet to take precautions if your cat suffers from chronic diseases or is in their golden age. You can also ask advice about sedatives to help your pet during the long journey.

Tip#4 – emergencies on the road or during travel might occur, and you might need to consult or visit a vet while you will be travelling with your cats. Check out vet emergency services available on your route, have a copy of, or take with you, your cat’s documentation such as health and vaccines records and/or certificates

Tip#5 – if you are moving to another state, country, or internationally you need to recognise the local laws and legal requirements as vaccination and tests might vary. If your kitty will need any vaccinations, plan your vet visit to be done a minimum 3-5 days before the planned journey.

Tip#6 – if your fluffy friend suffers from car sickness, avoid feeding your pet for 3-4 hours before your trip.

Tip#7– test drive your cat and take occasional rides to get them familiar with the carrier and adapt to travelling in cars.

Tip#8 – prepare a list of food and other supplies you need to have while travelling long distances with cats, and buy them in advance.

Tip#9 – while travelling long distances the person who your kitties are most attached to should stay as close to them as possible.

Tip#10 – control the temperature in the car, particularly if you are driving in large SUVs. Sun might come in the windows, so a pet will be hot even though the air conditioning is on. When you travel long distances during hot seasons, increase the number of midway stops so that you can take them for a walk in parks or other shady places.

Tip#12 – invest in a well-constructed, well-ventilated and leak-proof carrier. A great feature to have in the carrier is many pockets where cat owners can pack essential items they can access easily any time during the journey.  When purchasing the carrier, it is important to remember that:

• your pet must be completely inside it, will feel comfortable to move, stand, sit, turn around, stretch, and rest. The recommended carrier size is 1.5 times your cat’s size;
• a divider is helpful when you want to transport two cats and divide their space;
• a pet owner needs to know the maximum acceptable dimensions of a carrier if they will be travelling by plane;
• all elements of the carrier must be durable;
• the carrier is an investment as a good one provides extra security for your kitty;
• pet owners can easily latch and unlatch the top, and the sound of snapping cannot be loud and scary to the pet;
• the carrier should be easy to clean, cozy, and comfortable for the pet;
• multiple doors are nice-to-have so everyone has a variety of ways to help a pet without removing it from the carrier;
• the carrier should be cat-friendly, particularly if they are veterans.

Tip#12 – pet owners can also choose a larger crate that will have a litter box and a bed in it. 

Tip#13 – in most cases it is better to transport cats in separate carriers (singly).

Tip#14 –  it’s a well-known fact that cats do love boxes, which are not a safe option throughout the journey as pets can chew them and it’s difficult to clean up the mess.

Tip#15 –  according to the research undertaken by Bristol University, cats feel less stressed when their bedding, washable mat, or towel is present in the carrier. A carrier with a towel or bedding in the bottom (you can spray it with Feliway approximately 30 min before you place your kitty in the carrier – more details here) allows pets to feel cozy and be surrounded by familiar scents.

By having a pad inside the carrier, pet owners can also control and clean the carrier easily if a pet urinates, gets carsick and vomits, or defecates. 

Tip#16 –  to make trips less stressful, prior carrier training can be helpful.

Tip#17–  while preparing for your journey, always check the carrier for holes and its zippers.

Tip#18 –  secure the carriers with seat belts in the car. Even if your kitty is a great traveler, it is safe to keep them in the carrier for long distances. If an accident happens, your 4-legged friend can escape, be injured, get lost and won’t know what to do in the unknown surroundings.

Tip#19 –  your pet will feel more relaxed having their favorite toys, blanket, or other belongings, with them during the travel.

Tip#20 –   packing to be ready for all potential situations is better than under-packing. An absorbent pad, plastic bags, paper towels or baby wipes for cleaning up will be helpful in unexpected situations during the journey. 

If you are travelling by plane, make sure all items meet TSA standards.

Other helpful items to take might be:

• collapsible silicone bowls for food and water
• a large bag of Premium cat food
• big plastic dog dishes to be used as litter pans
• bottles of water

Tip#21 –  the kitty’s carrier should be labeled with their name, as well as the owner’s and vet’s names, and should include emergency contact information.

Tip#22 –  if you are travelling inside your country or internationally by plane, you need to research the policies and specific rules set by your airline, as well as the requirements of your destination.

Final thoughts

Travelling with your fluffy friend by car or plane can be stressful for all sides involved, but sometimes you cannot avoid it. If you get all the information in advance, plan and prepare your journey to fit your cat’s personality and follow the above guidelines, then your kitty will become your travel companion who enjoys travelling long distances with their owners.

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The 6 Best Cat Carriers for Long Car Trips

We take reviews seriously . This article has product  links we may be compensated for as an affiliate, at no extra cost to you.

The Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed & Carrier is the best cat carrier for long car trips because it’s secure yet comfortable, inspires calmness in my cat, and make me feel confident driving with it.

Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed & Carrier

• Crash tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety
• Dedicated seat belt loops
• Unique and tasteful look
• High end build quality
• Top entry for easy access
• Use as a cat bed, carrier, and cat seat

My cat is lukewarm to travel because she flew from her breeder to me as a kitten. So I know all about looking for the perfect carriers that will not stress out your cat.

But the best one for my cat may not be the best for you, which is why I selected other great models from other categories. Then at the end, a complete buyer’s guide.

There are the products we review in this article:

Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed & Carrier

• Carrier Type: Soft sided carrier
• Why It Works for Cars: Crash tested + certified, seat belt attachment, airy and comfortable
• Nylon, Polyester construction

Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier

• Carrier Type: Soft sided
• Why It Works for Cars: Seat belt attachment, high visibility & ventilation
• Polyester, Mesh, Fleece, Synthetic Fabric construction

Petsfit 2 Sides Expandable Carrier

• Carrier Type: Soft sided
• Why It Works for Cars: Expands in back seat, zips up when transporting
• Polyester, Oxford cloth construction

SPORT PET Car Kennel

• Carrier Type: Soft sided carrier, Kennel
• Why It Works for Cars: Roomy, metal entry gates, headrest attachment
• Plastic, metal, fabric construction

One for Pets Portable 2-in-1 Double Pet Kennel/Shelter

• Carrier Type: Soft carrier, Kennel
• Why It Works for Cars: Roomy, seat belt attachment, flexible configuration
• Polyester construction

Petmate Two Door Top Load

• Carrier Type: Hard sided
• Why It Works for Cars: Extra secure, easy to clean, wire mesh door
• Plastic, Stainless Steel, Metal construction

The Best Cat Carrier for Long Car Trips (Soft)

Super popular cat carrier for long car trips (soft), also great carrier for long distance travel (soft), best cat carrier for car travel (backseat style), best cat carrier for two cats on long car trips, best cat carrier for long car trips (hard), best cat carrier for long car trips (runner up hard), looking for the best cat carrier for long distance car travel with a litter box, the petluv happy cat premium cat carrier – what do i think, what are the best cat carriers for car travel, how to travel long distances with cats in a car, road trip with your cat – choosing the best cat carrier for long car trips, how do i keep my cat calm when traveling, is there anything i can give my cat to keep her calm, frequently asked questions.

Our overall soft winner and best cat carrier for long car trips is this versatile model that checks every box and looks great too.

Cats develop aversions to carriers because they are carriers, only associated with vet visits and other unpleasantness. The Sleepypod functions as your cat’s regular bed, their carrier when it’s zipped up, and their car seat when secured to seatbelt loops.

But this flexibility is not the reason it’s the winner. So why is it the winner? In a word – safety.

This carrier is designed to provide optimum safety and comfort using crash test research! Few other carriers or companies do this. Sleepypod actually crash tests its carriers (static material tensile testing and dynamic crash testing) at NHTSA contracted facilities.

But beyond being a safe carrier, the Sleepypod features durable construction and an easy top-entry design. The outside is made from luggage-grade nylon, which makes it easy to clean and maintain.

With a removable, yet secure, mesh dome, your pet will feel cozy without losing ventilation. Zip the domed cover off at home to help your cat acclimate itself to the carrier before a long trip. This is one carrier/bed you leave out all year.

The inside features plush bedding. It’s removable and machine-washable, so you can provide your cat with a comfortable spot at home or on the go. It also features a water-repellant cover in case of travel accidents.

For car trips, the Sleepypod carrier can be secured to the seat using hook and loop points that pair with your car’s seat belt.

And once you get to the destination, simply grab the padded carry handle, and safely transport your cat out of the car to a secure environment.

Overall a fantastic and safest carrier on this list with one obvious negative – the price.

The Sleepypod is available in 6 fresh colors and mini and medium sizes.

Rating Breakdown:

• Car Safety 10/10
• Comfort 10/10
• Accessibility 10/10
• Style 10/10
• Overall Rating 9.2

What We Liked:

• Crash tested
• Dedicated seat belt attachments
• High quality materials inside and out
• 2 sizes to fit any sized cat
• Water-resistant liner
• Easy carrying handle and adjustable shoulder strap

What We Didn’t Like:

• Not suited for air travel

Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Pet Carrier

• Stylish, comfortable, and practical cat "dufflebag"
• Secures to your car's seat belt, with locking zippers
• Big, well-ventilated mesh windows provide good visibility

Our runner up is this ultra stylish, comfortable, and practical cat dufflebag.

The Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Pet Carrier meets airline requirements, and more importantly, can secure to your car’s seat belt. So it’s perfect for international flights or a long drive to the city.

This is a lightweight option that also keeps its structure. Its design has a spring wire frame that makes the body of the carrier pliable yet firm. And when holding the carrier, you don’t feel like its shape is going to collapse, even with cats the size of Maine Coons!

Your cat can enter from the side or simply be dropped in from top. For security, the zippers in those places lock. But, your cat is always close to you through the large, well-ventilated mesh windows that provide good visibility.

In addition to being ergonomic, this carrier is easy to move around with help from a non-slip carrying strap that rests nicely on the shoulder.

You can easily reach into the little storage pocket on the side to grab your cat documents or gear with one one hand.

Lastly, you can also pull out the interior faux-lambskin liner and pop it in the washing machine. It comes available in many tasteful colors and small, medium, and large sizes.

• Car Safety 7/10
• Overall Rating 9
• Top and side entry
• Lightweight
• Seat belt strap secures to seat
• Maintains its shape while being pliable
• Odors may linger in material
• For those unsure how much visibility and privacy your cat wants
• Has unique side pockets that can fold out and expand the space
• High-quality locking zippers with two shoulder straps for ergonomics

The Petsfit 2 Sides Expandable Carrier is a quality, feature-packed carrier that is best for cat parents unsure of how much visibility and privacy your cat wants.

As our third best cat carrier for long car trips, this soft model has unique side pockets that stick out like little mesh balconies, that allow you to customize the way you use this carrier.

When you’re walking to or from your cat with your cat, everything can stay zipped up and private. However, you can fold out the expanded mesh compartments once you are in the comfort of your vehicle and give your cat a taste of the road.

This carrier also earns points for its really firm and soft exterior made from Oxford cloth. The Oxford material actually gives this carrier a really preppy, sporty look that’s unique among pet carriers.

I also like the security of high-quality locking zippers, and that there are two handles shoulder strap for good ergonomics. It’s also got entrances on the top and front so entry is stress-free for Kitty.

• Customizable and expandable depending on circumstance
• Shoulder strap and handles
• Top and front entry
• Self-locking zippers
• No attachment for seat belt
• For cats fine with car rides and wanting real comfort
• Rectangle design create a travel tube across your entire backseat
• Has secure metal entry gates, but fabric inside is not clawproof

If your cat is fine with car rides and you want maximum comfort for them in the backseat, the SPORT PET Car Kennel is for you.

And it’s perfect for cars: using a unique rectangle tube design, this carrier easily secures to the rear seat to create a travel tube across the entire backseat area.

It attaches to the head rest and can be looped in with seatbelts for overall safety!

While this carrier system is made from secure, claw-proof fabric, it’s not meant to take abuse from difficult cats. Entry gates are metal, however and pretty much escape proof. The fabric is very well vented and cozy.

With the large size, this is also one of the best cat carrier for long distance travel with a litter box! Just add some blankets, a travel litter box , and your cat is set for a cross-country move (with ample breaks of course).

When the trip is over, the SPORT PET Car Kennel collapses accordion-style into a compact square for storage.

Note that you will need to use a separate carrier to transport Fluffy from your home to this kennel. This product’s bottom is quite soft and not load bearing, it’s only to be used in the car.

This kennel comes in a large 45-inch or smaller 31-inch carrier option .

• Accessibility 8/10
• Overall Rating 8.2
• Extra safe , attachment to the back seat headrests and seat belt
• Metal mesh entry gates
• Super roomy and lightweight
• Very breathable
• Folds easily for compact storage
• Can’t be used as a regular soft carrier to and from your car
• Let your cats recharge alone or have companionship on a long trip
• Complete transportation system with built-in seatbelt attachments
• Well ventilated and has multiple entrances

Personally, I consider it cruel to squeeze two cats (or more) into a single carrier on long road trips. Not only would space be an issue, it probably would cause mental distress because cats are not social animals all the time.

Luckily, we have options like this beautiful double-pet model, our best cat carrier for two cats on long car trips! This ensure that your cats can enjoy a little company on the road without feeling claustrophobic.

Unlike to the above PET SPORT Kennel, this is more than a carrier, it’s complete transportation system. You can transport your cats from your house to the car using the top handle. You then secure it via built-in straps to seatbelts and it’s ready to go.

Functionally, the One for Pets Portable 2-in-1 Double Pet Kennel/Shelter is well ventilated, offers multiple entrances, and includes washable mats. Your cats will be plenty comfortable and visible via the breathable mesh.

And during the trip, you can turn the two compartments into one large area for some cat social time by unzipping the central zipper. Let them be with each other for a bit, and if needed, you can zip it back up again for alone time.

After the trip, the kennel easily folds up into a carrying case. Or just leave it up and out, since many cats will prefer being in it, and it works as a spacious kitty condo as well!

• Car Safety 9/10
• Overall Rating 9. 2
• Secures to the length of your back seat
• Removable divider wall for social time and private time, 3 configurations
• Very lightweight for the size
• Makes a great cat condo
• Comes with removable pads
• Affordable hard sided carrier for cats who might bite and scratch
• Extra secure with a steel mesh entry door
• Sides and back ventilated but obscured for privacy

The Petmate Two Door Top Load carrier is the overall best cat carrier for long road trips in the hard category due to its easy to use nature, affordability, and security.

True to the top load in its name, you pop the top door and simply drop in your kitty if the front gate a no-go. That way you don’t force and push her in.

That door, by the way, squeezes open using a really ergonomic setup with the latch and handle. It’s also made of steel mesh to withstand scratches and bites.

This carrier is made of hard plastic, and you secure the top and bottom halves together with screws for extra durability.

I also like the way this carrier provides a nice mix of ventilation and coverage. If your cat likes privacy, they’ll dig the way the sides and back are covered. That means that your cat can look out the front “window” without feeling frazzled by exposure at all sides.

This crate-style carrier comes in 2 sizes and is sturdy enough cats up to 20 pounds, but can seem a little too snug if your cat is extra fluffy.

• Comfort 7/10
• Price 10/10
• Overall Rating 8.6
• Top loading
• Wire mesh door and secure hard plastic construction
• Made in the USA
• Fun and vibrant colors
• Easy to open, close and latch.
• For small to medium sized cats only
• Need to add blanket or mat for hard floor

Amazon Basics 2-Door Top Load Cat Carrier

• Affordable & popular hard carrier, inspired by the Petmate
• Extra safe with a metal entry, top and bottom secured with latches and/or screws
• Convenient top entry opens to left or right

This is a great hard carrier that provides a practical, affordable experience (if not a little familiar). The Amazon 2 Door Top Load is obviously inspired by the Petmate Top Load, and performs just like it.

This carrier has doors and latches that are super easy to open, close, and secure. You can even open the top one-handed. Which handed? Doesn’t matter because the top entry opens two ways!

The top handle feels secure vs other carriers.

This carrier is more vented than others hard carriers, with little windows in every direction. Another big bonus of this carrier is that the top and door is removed easily to leave you with a cute cat bed for use at your destination.

• Sturdy and build-quality
• Steel wire 2-way opening door
• Easy open latch
• Tons of ventilation
• Comfortable handle

The best cat carrier for long distance car travel with a litter box available on the market is the Necoichi Portable Stress Free Cat Carrier , it comes with a foldable pop-up litter box.

It is large and comfortable enough for cross country trips, with mesh sides to promote airflow, and has a waterproof liner in case of accidents! You can secure it to seatbelts for safety too.

The included litter box is a good size with high sides and works for normal sized cats. After use, it folds up small and snaps tight.

After you are done traveling, you have the option of folding it up and putting it away.

Add a Disposable Litter Box for Large Cats

For large cats, I recommend buying Kitty’s Wonderbox Disposable Litter Box .

They are bigger than the included pop-up litter boxes, and they’ll fit in roomy cat transportation tube like the Petego Pet Tube Kennel or One for Pets Portable 2-in-1 Double Pet Kennel/Shelter .

The PetLuv Happy Cat Premium Cat Carrier is an extremely popular soft collapsible carrier and it deserves its reputation!

We love this carrier because of the frame’s quality construction, flexible privacy features, and thoughtful elements like locking zippers and a thick shoulder strap for you.

Its four large windows offer three different privacy configurations. You can roll up the windows completely, leaving your cat open air.

Or leave the mesh screen down to let them see the environment. And if your cat’s excitable or in a place where privacy is required, roll down the flaps so the carrier is fully closed.

An included plush pillow inside carrier calms any cat, and you can even secure it to seat belt loops for car travel. After finished with the trip, fold the carrier and put it away!

All of my picks above can be the best cat carrier for car travel for your cat. I’m really partial to the Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe because of everything I wrote above.

Long car trips can be more challenging than short ones, so of course any of my best picks can work!

On the road, it’s wise to stop every two hours to give your cat a break. Take them outside on a leash , if they are trained to do so and let them stretch their legs!

A good journey with your cat begins even before the carrier. It starts with your mindfulness of your pet’s needs. It’s important to remember that a good cat carrier isn’t a substitute for proper cat-friendly traveling practices.

A car should also offer comfortable temperatures with opportunities for ventilation. Do use a window shade if you’ll be driving in direct sunlight for long hours.

Now let’s talk about selecting the best car carriers for long car trips. What is the safest one for your cat? It’s highly dependent on your cat and you, so don’t skip this part.

The Best Cat Carrier for Long Car Trips – Hard or Soft?

The temperament of your road kitty indicates whether the best cat carrier for long car trips is hard or soft. My Maine Coon is pretty chill once inside the carrier, so a soft one will do.

Soft carriers are definitely more comfortable for your cat and can do things like fold flat, carry documents, and be easier to secure to car seats.

Visibility tends to be better with too, since you can see through mesh. This goes both ways – you want to be able to make sure your cat is looking good with just a quick glance when you’re driving.

For difficult cats who bites or scratches his carrier, then a hard plastic one takes abuse better and is ultimately more secure. The best hard models have plenty of ventilation and have multiple entrances for easy access.

Hard carriers are easy to clean if your car has accident. And in case of a driving accident, a hard carrier would probably be safer, but there’s no real way to definitively tell.

Size of Best Cat Carriers for Long Distance Travel

You know how cats love a snug, tight space when relaxing at home? They also prefer that same type of security on the road. Don’t get a carrier so large that your cat slides around whenever the car made a sharp turn or pivot.

The best cat carrier for long distance travel is about 1.5 times the size of your cat . Just make sure there’s enough room for your cat to spread out and turn around fully. Sometime, you want room to fit water and food in there too.

You buckle up, right? Your cat should too. The safest cat carriers on long distance travel can be secured to seat belts via straps or similar mechanism.

If that’s not a feature in your pick, just make sure that your carrier is firmly placed in the back seat. Don’t put your cat at risk by letting their carrier slide around loosely in the front seat or car floor.

Ventilation

You also need to make sure that your carrier has enough ventilation. Cars are stuffy enough as it is without being inside a carrier. This is one area where soft carriers have hard carriers beat.

Though many hard carriers now have vents on all sides now except the floor. Hard carriers with a top entrance also let in more air and light from the ceiling too, kind of like a cat skylight.

But do keep in mind not all cats want this extra light sensory input. So if your cat is excitable and you’re in an intense place, you can place a towel on the carrier to block visibility to keep them calm.

During this whole process, have you ever asked yourself, how do I keep my cat calm when traveling? Traveling can be stressful for humans but imagine it from a cat’s perspective.

Your cat probably does not understand why you are going somewhere or how long it will take. Depending on their personality, you might need to find some creative ways to keep them calm and unbothered by the stress of traveling.

You can be traveling by plane, car, or train, and it will be a scary and uncertain situation for a cat. They may hear loud noises, be bumped around, and must stay in a confined space for a length of time.

Take care to make the experience as free of stress as possible with these easy, commonsense tips.

1. Find the Right Carrier

Pick out a carrier that makes sense for your cat’s personality and the type of travel. Will your cat prefer a soft or hard carrier? A very anxious cat might claw or bite at a soft-sided carrier. If your cat needs more security then a classic, hard-sided model might be the right cat carrier for car travel.

2. No Breakfast

The day you are set to travel, it is recommended to not provide your cat with their normal breakfast. Nausea and vomiting are caused by anxiety and stress and can be exacerbated by a heavy breakfast.

Give them a nice meal when you get to your destination.

3. Use Pheromones

Calming pheromone treatments are an easy, natural option to help keep a cat calm. There are both sprays and calming collars that release pheromones that mimic your cat’s natural pheromones.

4. Maintain a Comfortable Temperature

If traveling by car, remember to always maintain a nice temperature inside.

If you have gone to the trouble of getting your cat to feel safe and at home in their carrier, you do not want them overheating or becoming too cold. They will begin to associate the carrier with an uncomfortable situation.

5. Secure the Carrier

Do not place the carrier in a precarious spot. If traveling in a car, place it securely on the floor or on a seat where it cannot slide. You do not want your cat to receive injuries due to sudden stops.

6. Pay Attention to Your Driving

Drive slowly and smoothly to prevent bumping your cat around in their carrier. The less tumultuous the trip, the happier your cat will be by the end.

7. Try a Thundershirt or Weighted Blanket

Thundershirts or weighted blankets can help manifest the release of endorphins. These items can replicate the feeling an animal gets when they receive a hug from its owner.

If your cat is very touch-oriented, a Thundershirt might be an excellent choice to keep them calm when they cannot be sitting with you.

8. Stay Close to Your Cat

If possible, pick a spot to place your cat’s carrier where they can always see you. You do not want them to feel alone in an unfamiliar setting. Sometimes cats may begin to exhibit separation anxiety when placed in uncertain situations.

9. Talk to Your Cat

When your cat starts talking to you, respond! Many cats start to get vocal when they get anxious, so your job is to mitigate the source of the anxiety.

Talking to my cat, Chelle, when we are traveling helps let her know that I am still there. She recognizes the sound of my voice, which is soothing to her.

If you are worried about a long trip or feel that your cat needs something to physically calm them down, consider some type of sedative.

A proper sedative is a kind of medication you need to request from a veterinarian. Your cat’s veterinarian may offer sedatives to you if you let them know that you are traveling with your pet. If they feel like a sedative is not a safe option, they will make sure to let you know.

Natural Sedatives

If you do not want to mess around with veterinarian-prescribed sedatives, consider a natural form. Plants and herbs like catnip, valerian, passion flower, chamomile, and ginger all have a calming effect on cats. Always do a test run at home to make sure the natural alternatives aren’t toxic or actually turn your cat hyper.

What is the safest cat carrier for car travel?

The safest cat carriers will always have a few of these essential features. If a carrier does not have them, then consider another one.

If safety is your main concern, a hard-sided carrier is the ideal. While a soft-sided carrier might be more comfortable and lighter, it does not offer the same protection.

Hard sides indicate a sturdier, more durable construction. There is typically little to no fabric used, which means it will not wear easily. Fabric is also more prone to damage from claws and sharp, little teeth. A hard-sided carrier will last longer.

Less fabric means less zippers, too. Zippers can break or stick, making it difficult to get a cat in or out. =A hard shell in a hard carrier is also safer in case of a car accident.

Hard carriers are more escape proof, which means your cat cannot bite or claw their way out of them. At the same time, there are usually more than one door, so getting your furry friend in or out is easier, especially if they are squirming.

Designed with Safety in Mind

Look for important safety features when shopping around at cat carriers. The best cat carriers for car travel on the market will include these essential features.

A well-designed carrier will come with seat belt loops. These loops can be used to secure the carrier to the seat. In case of an accident or sudden stop, the carrier will stay in place.

Metallic mesh gates are a great addition, especially for a comfortable carrier. Mesh allows for ventilation and breathability for your cat. Plus, mesh gates that have secure closures.

A leash attachment makes it easier to travel in the car with a cat. You can open the carrier door at stops without worrying about them running off.

Also check for crash testing. Some cat carriers are designed to perform very well during stressful situations. For example, the Sleepypod carrier went through multiple tests. It boasts many accidents that resulted in no injuries where their carrier was used.

Appropriate Size

A cat carrier used during car travel is typically slightly larger than one you would buy for another purpose. A large size is necessary if you anticipate having your cat spend plenty of time in it.

However, make sure it is not so big that your cat slides around. Depending on the size of your cat, they should feel snug but able to turn and move.

Good ventilation will keep your cat happy and healthy. If your carrier is not well-ventilated, you can risk injury to your animal during long trips. Sometimes the carriers with the best ventilation also help your cats feel more secure, because they can see their surroundings.

If you are concerned about comfort, consider the benefits of hard or soft-sided carriers. Hard-sided carriers offer more stability, but can be uncomfortable for long trips.

Many soft-sided carriers are designed to be sturdy and safe. Pay attention to the base when purchasing a soft carrier. The base should not be flimsy or bulge under the weight of your cat.

How do you take a cat on a long car trip?

Taking your pet with you for a road trip is always about the preparations you make. So, here are tips on what to do before and during the journey:

Before The Journey

• Get the right carrier. A perfect cat carrier for the car is spacious yet snug, well ventilated, and safe and secure.
• Make sure your cat is well acquainted with the carrier and it’s somewhere they don’t mind spending time. Leave it out in the house, do not just take it out whenever it’s time for a car trip, this associates a negative experience with the carrier.
• Another important step to transporting a cat in a car is to prep the car. Get your cat familiar with the car and it’s smells, sounds, and temperature.
• Pack a travel litter box and a bag of clean litter.
• Don’t feed breakfast on the day of the trip
• Don’t forget the water and treat!

During The Journey

• Avoid making multiple stops.
• Never leave your pet unattended in the car.
• If the journey is long, secure a leash to your cat’s collar to the carrier and you can let them out for water, a snack, or to use the litter box.
• Place the cat carrier on the floor or back seats away from the airbag’s path in case of an accident.
• Always have the carrier secured with either a safety belt or nestled somewhere that will prevent moving around.
• Ensure wherever you place the carrier, it should experience a good airflow.

These tips are not only for long road trips alone but also for short trips like a 2 hour car ride with cat. Also, it would be best to make your pet carrier comfortable and cozy by placing their favorite toy, blanket, or safety item in there.

Will your cat prefer a hard or soft carrier? It depends. Are they prone to getting sick or have an accident? If this is your cat, a hard carrier is definitely the way to go as it’s simple to clean up. Refraining from feeding breakfast should help here, it’s why we do it!

How do you transport a cat on a long car ride?

First, cats should never be placed in a front seat. It’s essential to have a comfortable, safe cat carrier with enough room for your cat to relax and sleep in the back seat. The best cat carriers for long distance travel must have ventilation!

Purchase any of the best cat carriers for long car trips above. Allowing your cat to become familiar with a carrier ahead of a trip is a good idea. Generally, you’ll want to give your cat a chance to sleep and relax in the new carrier at your house. Always stop if your cat appears distressed.

Do cats travel well in cars?

Yes, most cats are content to travel in cars as long as the temperature and settings are comfortable. However, it’s really a matter of your cat’s personality and past experiences.

Select cats just hate traveling no matter what cat carrier for long distance travel you choose, and you may need to use calming agents like Feliway.

Remember that cats need regular access to all of the same comforts of home in terms of food, water, human attention, and litter boxes.

How long can a cat ride in a car?

You may have no choice other than to take your cat along on a long road trip if you’re moving across states. Technically, there is no limit to how long a road trip with a cat can be as long as you drive in chunks.

However, it is generally advised that you stop every two to three hours to check on your cat’s comfort or use their litter box. Don’t allow your cat to go for long stretches without water. The best cat carriers for long car trips always have your cats comfort in mind.

Cats on road trips – what could go wrong?

It isn’t wise to assume that every journey with your pets will always end up as you had planned, so it’s important that you be well versed in animal first aid whenever you are traveling with our little feline friends.

Also, if your cat is taking any medication, it’s best if you remember to pack them and always have your vet’s number on speed dial in case of an emergency that you can’t handle.

How to travel long distance with two or multiple cats?

When traveling with two or multiple cats, you must ensure that the carrier you own can be separated or is partitioned. Cats are not all social all the time, so the option to create private time is a gift!

Also, ensure that the carrier can handle the cats’ weight and should have sufficient space and be well ventilated.

Having your cat as a travel companion can be lots of fun, but it will entirely depend on your preparations. Before planning a road trip for you and your pet, always consult with your vet.

What is the best way to transport a cat in a car?

A cat carrier is the only way to go when taking your cat to the groomers, vet visits, camping, somewhere to play, or any other place where you will be away from home for an extended period.

1. Introducing the Carrier to Your Cat

If your cat is not used to a carrier, it may take some time for them to get used to it. You may need to provide your cat with some time in a carrier for a few days before you take them with you on trips and car rides.

The first step is introducing your cat to the carrier. You can do this by placing familiar belongings, treats, or toys in the carrier and giving your cat a chance to explore and play there.

Ensure they have enough space inside the carrier so they don’t feel cramped or confined while familiarizing themselves with it.

Your carrier should allow enough room for your cat to lie down, turn around, and stand. However, it should not be too big as it will help prevent your cat from sliding around. Make sure the carrier has safety features like seat belt loops and a leash attachment.

2. Make Sure Your Cat is Comfortable In The Carrier

One way to help your cat feel comfortable in their carrier is by heating it before you place them inside. Be sure to regulate your car’s heating or air conditioning system appropriately.

During cold seasons, you may need to keep the car’s temperature set right so the cat can stay warmer in their carrier. Being too warm can also be stressful for cats, which can cause panting and breathing issues.

Keep the car’s temperature level where your cat will feel comfortable. Consider the radio and your sound system as well, keep it low or off as loud music or sounds can stress out your cat even more.

3. Pheromone Sprays

As you transport your cat, they might become nervous or agitated. To prevent this from happening, consider the use of pheromone products.

This will help your cat feel relaxed and more comfortable with its carrier. You can either spray the inside of the carrier and give it time to rest before letting your cat in, or spraying a towel and draping it over the top or openings of the carrier.

There’s no better time to reward Fluffy with extra delicious treats. Letting them associate good things with the carrier and for good, calm behavior during the car ride.

5. Safety First

Avoid speeding. This applies in general but especially when traveling with your cat in a car. Additionally, never leave your cat alone in the car while you leave.

Can you transport a cat in a car without a carrier?

No, you should not transport your cat in a car without a carrier. Whether you choose a hard plastic or a soft-sided carrier, the key point is keeping your cat safe during the drive.

Many of the carriers available have safety loops to secure the carrier to the seat, much like a seat belt.

Are there alternatives to carriers?

The best and safest option for keeping your cat comfortable is using a carrier. While many people try to improvise and make other devices such as cardboard boxes, these are ultimately not safe and escape proof.

Escape artist cats can wiggle out while going to your house to the car, or even inside the car, causing distracted driving which can turn into a cad situation.

Do cats prefer soft or hard carriers?

Picking between a soft and hard carrier might not be cut and dry. Keeping their cat happy is a big job for many cat owners.

Some cats are laidback and go with the flow, but other cats are more difficult. Consider your pet’s well-being when deciding between a soft and a hard carrier.

Benefits of Soft Carriers

• They are more comfortable for cats. Making sure your cat is cozy and comfortable is huge part of taking your cat on a long car trip (or plane ride).
• The soft sides and bottom are frequently padded and are very breathable.
• Commonly made of nylon, soft carriers are extremely lightweight, which makes them portable. Carrying your cat to and from the car is easy. The soft sides are also flexible enough to be collapsible and storable when not in use.
• Soft carriers also come in many unique designs. You can find tote bag carriers, nifty backpacks, or even body slings.

Disadvantages of Soft Carriers

• Unfortunately, the benefits of the lightweight nylon material can be a disadvantage if you have an aggressive kitty.
• Claws and teeth can cause damage over time to soft carriers. Soft carriers can also be damaged from messes. You cannot easily clean the material of a soft carrier, and bad odors can linger.
• Soft carriers do not offer the same protection as hard carriers. Your cat will feel every bump through the soft sides.

Benefits of Hard Carriers

• The tough plastic of a hard carrier is both sturdier and more secure. Transporting your cat in one of these carriers allows you peace of mind in case of accidents or falls.
• The mesh grate doors, typically made of metal, cannot be bitten through, or torn. Your cat will not escape when you take your eyes off the carrier for a moment.
• Hard carriers are more difficult to damage, whether from claws or messes. The plastic sides and bottom can be wiped down with a sanitary wipe and they will not retain odors. 

Disadvantages of Hard Carriers

• Hard carriers can seem unwelcoming. You might need to add a blanket or bed to ensure your cat’s comfort. The hard, sturdy sides make it bulky and difficult to carry.
• Unlike soft carriers, you cannot collapse the sides to store them in your home. You must have a space ready to store it when it is not in use. 
• You also will not find a lot of variation in the design of hard carriers. Most hard carriers have a very basic design and perhaps some fun colors.

Are Soft or Hard Cat Carriers Better? It Depends!

Choose a carrier type based on your needs and you cannot go wrong. Will the trip be a short one around town or a more involved one involving flying? If flying, always check and double check your airline’s requirements for pets onboard.

Think about the temperament of your cat, too. A cat who is stressed during any type of travel might be better in a hard carrier, which they cannot bite or claw through.

But some cats need to feel cozy and comforted when being transported outside the home, which calls for a soft carrier. Using a carrier Fluffy likes and is familiar with can keep your cat calm while traveling.

The length of a trip is also important. A cat prone to accidents should either be provided a tiny litter box or be placed in a hard carrier that is easy to clean.

Storing a bulky carrier is not ideal for all pet owners. If you have the space, you do not have to worry about buying a hard carrier. But for cat owners with limited storage, go for a collapsible soft carrier.

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I’m Gary Hu, a proud cat dad to a 15 lb Maine Coon. Have taken care of outdoor and indoor cats for over 10 years, and learned tons on behavior, habits, health, and products. I help new Maine Coon (or any other cat) parents with common questions and issues based on real, practical experience.

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Traveling with Cats in a Car Long Distance (17 Essential Tips)

How to travel with cats in a car long distance? What are the essential tips for traveling with cats in a car long distance? What is the best way to travel long distance with a cat? How to make traveling with a cat easier and enjoyable?

If you are planning to travel long distance with a cat in a car, then there is a 99% chance that you might be searching for the answers to these strategic questions. Isn’t it?

And why shouldn’t you? After all, it’s the matter of your cat’s safety. Right? And when it comes to traveling with cats in car long distance, you must be familiar with all the car travel safety tips for cats to help you prepare for a smooth, fun, and safe trip.

Nowadays, we get to see that people love their pets way too much than they love fellow human beings around them. It is, in fact, a trend these days to have dogs or cats as pets alongside other animals as well. More and more people are getting inclined towards adopting pets and keeping them along with themselves at their homes.

But what happens when you travel out? Where would you keep your lovely cat while driving cross country?

Well, even if you are travelling, you can still take your pet along with you so that you do not have to miss them while on the trip and keep worrying about their well-being back at home, even if there is someone to look after the pets.

Today, we shall discuss cats as pets. Cats are very adorable of all the pets and thus, traveling with cats in a car long distance does not seem to be an issue of any kind. If you own a cat and you want to take it out along with you when you travel for a long distance, then here are some essential travel safety tips for traveling long distance with cats that you can follow.

So just keep reading to know what is the best way to travel long distance with cats and learn more about driving cross country with cats happily, safely, and comfortably.

Table of Contents:

17 Essential Tips for Traveling with Cats in a Car Long Distance

Undoubtedly, traveling a new place can be an exciting and eye-opening experience for most of us, but the same thing does not apply to our pets. Like most of the pets, Cats hate moving. Yes, it’s true! Unlike dogs , cats don’t seem to enjoy the experience of travelling a long distance by car.

Cats are creatures of habit. They like stability and want to be surrounded by all familiar things. These are the reasons why you can’t put a cat in a moving car without any preparation and proper conditioning.

Yes, if you want to make a road trip with your cat safe, peaceful, and enjoyable, then you will have to make sure your car is comfortable, resourceful, and travel-friendly according to your cat’s needs.

Don’t worry, though. There are some very helpful and easy cat travel solutions to make traveling long distance with cats in a car simpler. Are you ready to learn what they are? Here are 17 most essential tips for traveling with cats in a car long distance you can try today. Here we go:

Choose a Pet-Friendly Destination

When you travel long distance with cats, you must remember that it is not like other pets who are drive friendly. In fact, cats are prone to develop motion sickness and may also feel stressed during the journey.

Which is why, you must try to choose such a destination to travel which is pet friendly, so that when you reach there, your pet cat can relax and chill to overcome the long road journey that it had just completed.

There are many hotels and accommodations available these days, which is pet friendly, and they provide every means to make your pet feel comfortable and happy. Even if you are traveling cross country with a cat, you must make sure there is no barrier for carrying your pet along with you in the border.

Are you wondering how to find pet-friendly hotels and places to stay with dogs or cats when travelling cross country by car? Well, you can use the popular pet travel and hotel booking sites like BringFido , Expedia Travel , and Pets Welcome , etc. to search and book pet-friendly hotels.

We hope now you know the answer to your questions – How to find hotels that are pet friendly and how to choose a pet-friendly destination.

Choosing a pet-friendly destination sums up to be a place where your pet feels like home, in terms of comfort and relaxation. And when it is your cat, traveling to a pet-friendly destination is almost a must-have as cats are very delicate animals and do not love to travel places leaving their comfort zone.

Shop the Right Cat Carrier for Car Travel

Cats are very fragile pets, and we need to take extra care of them while we take them out for a long drive in our car. As they love to stay where they are and also afraid of leaving their territory and comfort zone, it is not always a good idea to make them travel along with you to some long-distance destination.

But suppose at all you need to carry your pet cat along with you while you travel a long distance in your car. In that case, it is highly recommended that you buy the best cat carrier for long distance travel to make your cat feel comfortable and healthy during the tiring journey.

Curious to find out what is the safest and best cat carrier for long distance car travel? Here are some of the top-rated picks and best cat carriers for traveling with cats in a car long distance:

Last update on 2024-06-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The cats are furry animals who are soft and adorable as well. And you can’t be harsh on them by providing them with a hard carrier! Thus, it is recommended that you buy soft and cozy carriers for your cats while you travel long distances with them. When you are taking them out, it is your responsibility to look after their health and comfort!

Let Your Cat Get Used to the Car and Cat Carrier

All living beings are subject to changes and adaptation at the same time. They are created in such a way that they would encounter lots of changes in their lives, and they would slowly become adapted to their lifestyle habits. Thus, animals also possess the same adaptation pattern and can adjust themselves in situations that are not their habit of living.

That is why it is recommended that you train your cat to be accustomed to car travel by taking it out for a few minutes to a few hours of ride regularly. As cats are nervous creatures and do not gel well with car traveling, they first need to be introduced to the car riding for a shorter period, and then you can take it out for long driving sessions.

While traveling with cats in a car long distance, you must also keep in mind to carry all the essential things that it might need during the ride so that your pet can remain in a healthy condition throughout the trip.

Take Your Cat to the Vet

It is advisable that you take your cat to the veterinarian before taking it out for a long drive. This is because you never know what kind of health condition your pet has, and a long journey can cause some unwanted situation which you would not like to face during your drive.

So, to be sure of the cat’s health condition, you must go for a regular checkup date with your vet and prevent any health issues with the pet during the journey.

The vet can also advise you well on any medicine or other treatments to be accomplished while you take your pet out for the drive so that it remains fit and healthy during the trip and does not succumb to the situation.

When traveling with cats in cars, you must keep in mind that they are not like other pets who enjoy long car rides. They are stressed during such long trips, and thus you must be extra careful towards them during the entire journey.

Get Your Cat Microchipped

Though this is usually done when the cat is outdoors or has probabilities of getting lost, it is still a good idea to get the cat chipped when you are taking it out for a long drive in your car. The cats’ microchipping is done by the vets using a needle, and the chip is the size of grain rice.

It is placed subcutaneously between the shoulder blades of the cat and is not a hurtful process. It takes a few minutes to complete the process and does not produce any allergic reactions to the cat’s body as well.

The primary purpose of such microchipping is to get to find your cat if it is lost somewhere during the ride when you take it out for short breaks. Traveling with your cat is not always a good idea, given the fact that cats are not ride-friendly, but if you must take a long ride with your cat, then microchipping it is indeed a good idea to think about!

If you are a new cat owner and planning to microchip your cat before going on a road trip, then you might find this microchipping guide quite useful for you. In this guide by WebMD, many veterinary experts answer most commonly asked questions about microchipping your dog or cat. It will help you in learning a lot about the microchipping process.

Use a Cat Harness and Leash for Extra Safety

Who does not love to be extra careful about a pet? We all do! And more so, when it’s an adorable pet cat! The cats are very furry and adorable creatures, and we love to pet them to that extent, where the mere thought of losing them might give us goosebumps!

So, to be extra protective towards them and keep them safe during the long drive, we must carry ourselves a cat harness and leash . When traveling with your cat for a long distance, it is mandatory to take short breaks during the drive and take your cat out for a short walk or a stroll.

And when you have a harness or leash around the neck of your cat, you can at least look after it when you are out of the car and do not worry about it going anywhere. There are several types of harnesses available that are comfortable and pocket friendly at the same time, and you must buy one accordingly.

If you want soft adjustable vest harnesses and leash for cats, then here are some of the top-rated cat harnesses and leash you can buy for your cat when preparing for your next road trip:

All these cat harnesses and leashes come with adjustable and padded cat vest that are best for walking and travelling. If your kitty is exceptionally active and likes playing around, then the use of a leash and harness adds an extra measure of safety to it during the travel.

Pack Cat Chew Toys and Chew Sticks

Cats are sensitive creatures, and they do not like to travel places just like other pets. Thus, it would be best if you were very particular with your packing choices when taking your cats out for a long drive. You will find many tips for traveling with cats in a car long distance, and almost all of those are helpful enough to make your cat feel comfortable during the ride.

One of the important cat travel accessories that would be beneficial when traveling with a cat is the cat chew toys or cat chew sticks . These types of cat toys are useful to keep the cats entertained and busy throughout the ride. They can remain indulged with these chew toys for a more extended period, and chances are less than they would feel bored or stressed during the journey.

These chew toys come in different shapes and sizes depending upon the variation of your cat. These are also very inexpensive stuff to take along with you when going out for a long drive with your cat.

Buy Cat Calming Treats for Car Travel

Out of all the cat car travel accessories, having cat calming treats is one of the best things that you can think of carrying with you when taking your cat out for a long driving session. Cats are such pets who do not like to travel much, more so, if it is in a car and for long hours. They are humble creatures loving their own space and territory and hate it when they have to move someplace else, that too in a car!

It is usual for them to get excited or frightened when you take them out for a long drive in your vehicle. And when the cats get nervous inside the car during the ongoing trip, it would be difficult for you to handle them or calm them down to normal.

So, in such cases, having crunchy and soft cat treats in your car shall help you deal with this situation quickly. Such calming treats include cat spray, cat diffuser, cat collars, cat wipes, cat supplements, etc.

Get a Cat Anxiety Jacket

Travel anxiety is very common amongst cats. And when it is your pet cat, you won’t like to see it in a stressful condition or anxiety. Thus, you must be well prepared to tackle its anxious mind while traveling long distances with the cat in your car.

There are many cat travel accessories available for the same, out of which, having a cat anxiety jacket ready for tackling such a moment is the work of an intelligent mind. The anxiety jacket for cats create constant pressure on the cat’s torso and instigate a feeling of gentle calmness during moments of anxiety.

But you must remember that the cat must not wear the anxiety jacket during the entire travel period. It is good to remove the jacket every 1-2 hours and let the cat be in a free state of mind before feeling anxious again! This way, you can complete the entire journey and keep your cat calm at the same time.

Get a Cat Sedative for Traveling in Car

How long can a cat travel in a car? This is a question that worries many travelers who travel with their pet cats. Well, after going through the entire article, you will have an idea of how long a cat can travel in a car, but as of now, you must know that though a cat can travel for more hours, they feel sick or anxious during the long drive in the car.

And for this reason, you must adapt to every precaution needed for the ride to make your cat feel comfortable and healthy during the journey. One such method of carrying your cat in a long drive without much hindrance is to sedate it using the cat sedative for car travel available in the market.

Well, it might not always be a good option for cat lovers to sedate it and change its state of mind for the journey, but if your cat gets troubled too much during the ride, then most vets suggest sedating it in safe doses. There are cat-friendly sedatives available in the market, which you can use to consult with your vet.

Maintain an Ideal Temperature in Your Car

While we know that traveling long distances with cats is not always a good idea as they are sensitive to long drives in a car, but if you need to do so, you must make sure that you make the journey a comfortable one for them! And for that, maintaining an ideal temperature inside your car is highly recommended.

How much temperature is ideal for traveling comfortably in a car for a long-distance? Well, it generally depends on what breed of cat it is or how well adapted to the climatic conditions it is!

But in general, cats do not prefer too hot or too cold temperatures. Though their furry body helps them stay calm during cold temperatures, it is suggested that you do not lower your car’s ac too much. Also, you must keep the car AC or your portable car air conditioner on at a moderate temperature so that it does not feel the heat.

There are plenty of air cooling fans and portable air conditioners for cars in the market at a relatively affordable price. Portable car air conditioners, Rooftop air conditioners, Fan air coolers, and Bucket + Fan Coolers are some of the most popular portable car ACs options.

Now it’s entirely upto you which types of portable air conditioner you want for your cars or trucks to control the temperature inside your vehicle and create a much more comfortable, enjoyable environment for your cats.

Keep Your Cat Hydrated

If you are traveling in the scorching summer season, you must know that it is as essential to keep your cat hydrated as it is keeping yourself hydrated in such weather conditions. If you are looking for tips for traveling with cats in a car long distance, then this might be helpful to you.

Cats tend to become dehydrated quickly in warm conditions as they do not possess a strong urge to drink water, often unlike other animals. And when they suffer from dehydration, you can notice symptoms like dry mouth, sunken eyes, loss of appetite, lethargy, panting, etc.

So, to keep it hydrated during the entire journey, you must look up to ways that shall not condition it to face dehydration. Like, providing them with foods with high water content or letting them drink water more often. This way, you can prevent any type of dehydrating conditions of the cat during the long drive.

Get a Portable Cat Litter Box

This is the most crucial accessory amongst all the cat car travel accessories. A collapsible and portable cat litter box is essential when you are traveling with your cat for a long distance. As you cannot always find a suitable place during the drive to make your cat litter, it is easy to have a litter box inside your car so that both you and your pet cat can remain hassle-free with the littering issue.

You must also train your cat to litter in the litter box not to make your car dirty. There are many types of portable litter boxes available, which can be easily kept inside your vehicle and the cat carrier. These boxes are easy to carry and easy to dispose of also!

When you have portable litter boxes inside your car, you do not have to worry about your cat even when it is a long one!

Take Frequent Breaks and Make Time for the Outdoors

Are you stressing over the fact of how to travel with cats in a car long distance? If yes, you must not freak out and follow some essential tips to avoid severe issues on the road. All these tips are useful enough to keep your cat in good condition when traveling a long distance in your car. Alongside all these tips, this one also allows your cat to travel a long distance in a better manner.

Allowing your cat to take a walk and short breaks during the journey shall increase its chances of surviving better during the entire trip. It is recommended that you take such a break every 2-3 hours so that your cat (and you) can feel relaxed during the journey.

When the cat is inside the car for long hours, it can feel irritated and nervous, and thus, to relive it from any kind of distress, you must take a short break and make time for outdoors.

Never Leave Your Cat Alone in the Car

How to travel with a cat in a car? Well, by now you already know how to travel with your cat in a car for a long distance. There are some tips and recommendations that you must follow during your trip with your cat. But apart from all these precautions to keep your cat safe, you must also think upon the fact that when you are traveling with your cat, you can’t leave your cat alone inside the car.

Understandably, you might also need some alone time when going for a long drive, but you must also think of your pet cat in every situation. And as cats are afraid of such long car journeys, you must be extra careful towards them during the trip.

If you leave them alone in the car, they might be more nervous or might get out of the vehicle as well. Mishaps do not take time to occur, and so, you must be aware of such facts while traveling with your cat in the car!

Don’t Forget Cat First Aid Kit for Any Emergency

Can a cat travel a long distance? Yes, it can! But with some precautions being taken care of by the pet owner! There are several things that you might carry along with you when you are going out for a long drive in your car, they might be equally useful for your cat as well.

But if you forget to carry a cat first aid kit along with you, then maybe you are missing out on important stuff.

As there can be emergencies during a drive for us humans, there can be emergencies with the animals. And having a cat first aid kit can save your cat from such emergency conditions during the drive.

The cats might feel stressed during the trip, or they can have an upset stomach, or even in worse situations, they might suffer accidents. During such moments, the emergency first aid kit can be of real help to you and your pet cat!

Make the Ride Smooth and Slow

The best way to travel long distances with cats is to make the journey comfortable and smooth. And for that to happen, rash driving or speed of the car has to be maintained by you. Cats are already afraid of such long journeys in the car, and if you choose to drive very fast and irregularly, you will do more harm to your cat than you can ever imagine.

You must decide to drive slowly and smoothly in the road so that your cat does not panic and can adjust with the ride.

It is understandable that when you are traveling a long distance, it is not possible to drive too slowly or smoothly all the time, but you must try to maintain the speed and smoothness as much as you can so that your cat does not feel the stress of driving such a long road trip.

FAQ for Traveling with Cats in a Car Long Distance

If you found the above explained essential travel safety tips for traveling with cats in car long distance useful for you and your cats then you will find these most popular FAQs even more beneficial for your trip. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions on the internet by the cat lovers that might be helpful to you in understanding whether it is fine to take your cat for a long drive:

The answer is undoubtedly yes but with some precautions! When you’re taking your cats out on a road trip, you must be well equipped with stuff that would be useful to keep them in a steady condition during the journey. Like the best cat carrier for cars , cat foods, and other essentials so that your pet cat does not find the ride to be a difficult one. You must also feed the cat right on time and make arrangements for a comfortable sitting place for them inside the car to avoid any kind of discomfort of the cats during the drive!

Usually, a drive of up to 6 hours is excellent when driving a long distance with your cat, but it is not that you cannot travel for more hours. You can take your cat for a drive for two days or even more. But you must take short breaks during your trip and make the cat get out of its carrier so that it does not feel the burden of the long drive and suffer from car sickness. You must be alert of the cat’s behavior while on the long drive, and if you notice any unnatural behavior, you must stop the car and let the cat out for some time.

Cats are afraid of car rides mainly because they are domesticated pets, and they hate to leave their territory and move to a new place. Cats love to live where they are, and thus, they do not quite go down well with the car rides. Also, they do not enjoy the car rides because it is an instinctual change to their daily routine, and they do not adjust well with that! So if you are traveling long distance with cats, know that they might not like the ride, and the experience might be bitter for them.

Yes, cats do get car sick even when you take proper care of them during the ride. Most of the time, cats suffer from motion sickness, resulting in excessive drooling or vomiting. They might also suffer from anxiety and stress when taken out for a long drive in a car. Cats do not prefer movements out of their territory, and thus it can get uncomfortable for them when they travel in a vehicle. So, if you are traveling long distances with cats in the car, know that they are not going to like it too much and may develop car sickness.

Yes, but most veterinarians suggest that it must be the last option to think upon while you take out your cat on a long drive in a car. There are many tips for traveling long distances with a cat, and you can follow those tips to make your cat comfortable during a ride. Even if at last, you find out that your cat is suffering from motion sickness, then you can resort to sedating it with sedatives such as sleeping pills, diphenhydramine, benzodiazepines, etc. It is not good to alter the cat’s mental condition, but even if you want to sedate it, consult the veterinarian once.

Cats prefer soft and comfortable carriers or crates when they are traveling long distances in a car. Though the hard carriers are better at protecting them if there is an unusual accidental activity during the travel, it is better to think of the comfort of the cats while traveling than to provide them with a hard carrier. You can still search for What is the best cat carrier for car travel? And find out the cat carrier which is best suited for your cat during the long-distance travel by car.

Author’s View on Traveling with Cats in a Car Long Distance

Most of us today are pet lovers, and thus when it comes to traveling long-distance leaving behind our pets, we start feeling disheartened! That is why I have penned down these essential tips for traveling with cats in a car long distance so that you don’t have to feel awkward leaving your pet cat behind at home when you are moving cross country.

In my opinion, it is natural to carry a pet cat (or dog ) along with you when you travel long distances as the affection and love we have towards them is immeasurable! But if you are carrying your pet along with you, then you must follow certain things so that the long drive does not make your pet sick or they get hurt in any way.

These 17 essential tips for traveling with cats in a car long distance are very useful for you and your pet cat if you plan to travel long miles together. If I had to carry my pet cat along with me on a long drive, I would have genuinely followed these codes of conduct to ensure my dear pet cat remains safe and healthy during the long trip!

Did we miss something in this list of essential tips for traveling with cats in car long distance or moving cross country with cats? Let us know in the comments. Please feel free to share with us if you find any other effective and best ways to travel long distance with cats in a car.

You may also be interested in checking out:

• 13 Best Cat Carrier for Long Distance Car Travel in 2020
• 18 Most Essential Dog Car Travel Accessories You Must Have
• How to Keep Your Dog Cool in the Car while Traveling
• 18 Best Car Travel Accessories for Toddlers and Babies
• 24 Most Essential Car Accessories for Women Drivers of All Ages

About Amy Cuban

I am an automotive enthusiast who loves to be around cars. I enjoy working on cars in my spare time and love anything related to automobiles. I like using different types of car accessories, car gadgets, and innovative car care products.

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How far do cats roam? An expert reveals what your feline really gets up to

We explain how far do cats roam, what drives this behavior and how to curb your kitty’s wanderlust.

How far do cats roam?

Why do cats roam.

• How to discourage roaming
• How far can a cat hear you?

You’ve probably found yourself wondering how far do cats roam, particularly if your kitty spends hours outside or has ever disappeared for a few days.

The best pet trackers can help you check on your cat’s location and monitor their movements, but do you know what they’re getting up to? We reveal the fascinating factors that influence cats to roam away from home.

Whether your feline is a homebody, an urban explorer navigating city streets and parks, or a rural wanderer traversing fields and forests, understanding what drives their behavior can help you make informed decisions about their lifestyle, including whether or not to let them outside.

We also explore the actions you can take to reduce your cat's urge to roam far and wide and explain how to turn your house and garden into a cat-friendly haven that will meet their every need and encourage them to stay close to home, happy and safe within your sight.

I've worked with cats in vet clinics, shelters, and rescue and welfare organizations for 18 years. I also have an International Cat Care Certificate in Advanced Feline Behavior for Cat Professionals and completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Animal Behavior.

From city streets and suburban backyards to sprawling rural landscapes, the size of a cat’s home range and the distances they roam can vary widely depending on their age, sex, reproductive status, and individual personality.

While most cats only roam up to 200 meters (650 feet) from home, research using GPS trackers has shown that some travel significant distances.

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A study published in the journal of Animal Conservation , which tracked the movements of cats in the USA, UK, Australia and New Zealand, found that while the average roaming range was no more than one square kilometer, some individuals covered much larger areas, with ranges over eight square kilometers.

Felines living in rural areas tend to roam further than their urban counterparts, as urban dwellers typically have much smaller territories, often restricted to their immediate yard or neighborhood due to the higher cat population density.

Female cats typically have smaller ranges than males, particularly un-neutered toms, whose territories will usually overlap with several females to increase their chances of finding a mate.

Most free-roaming cats will visit parks, grassland, woodland, and waste ground to hunt for small rodents, songbirds and reptiles but street and feral cats tend to range over larger areas in search of food and are often drawn to places where they can access food waste left by humans.

If your kitty roams, you may worry ‘ can cats find their way home ?’ While cats seem to have a homing instinct and form a mental map of their home range, roaming doesn’t come without risks. Wandering cats can become disoriented, get injured, or may choose not to return if their home environment is too stressful or isn’t meeting all their needs.

Understanding the factors influencing your feline companion’s roaming behavior can provide valuable insight into how best to manage their tendency to wander. Cats roam for various reasons driven by their natural instincts, needs and emotional state, including:

1. They’re looking for a mate

Unneutered cats are much more likely to roam than cats that have been castrated or spayed. Increased levels of sex hormones and the powerful instinct to reproduce can trigger roaming behavior, causing intact males and females that have come into heat to venture outside their territory in pursuit of sexual partners. Even indoor-only cats may attempt to escape from the house in their desperation to find a mate.

2. They’re hunting or foraging

A cat’s natural drive to hunt for prey or forage for food compels them to explore new areas. Engaging in predatory and foraging behaviour doesn’t just satisfy their dietary requirements, it also provides them with physical and mental stimulation, which is crucial for their health and overall well-being.

3. They’re seeking security

If a cat feels anxious or fearful in their home environment they may roam in search of a quieter, safer place where they can find refuge from perceived threats or persistent stressors. For example, the introduction of a dog or another cat to the family, an intruder cat invading their core territory, or loud construction noise.

4. They’re exploring

Cats are naturally curious creatures, which drives them to roam and investigate unfamiliar environments. This behavior keeps their minds active and engaged, enabling them to discover new hunting grounds or other food sources, find safe hiding spots, and identify potential threats.

5. They’re marking or defending their territory

Cats can spend a large portion of their time roaming to patrol the boundaries of their territory and ensure the area remains secure. They will top up urine spray marks to signal their ownership and attempt to see off any rivals they encounter. Territories can range in size from your backyard to several miles radius.

How to keep your cat close to home

Discouraging your feline companion from roaming can help ensure their safety and give you peace of mind. Read on to discover the actions you can take to reduce wandering, keep your kitty close to home and ensure their safe return if they do roam too far: 1. Netuer or spay

Neutering your pet can significantly reduce their urge to roam. Without the hormone-driven desire to find a mate, they’re likely to stick closer to home.

2. Provide your cat with enough food and water

Feeding your cat the best cat food will reduce the likelihood of them wandering off in search of more appetizing food in your neighbors’ homes. However, even well-fed cats have an innate urge to hunt, which can encourage them to roam in search of prey.

Offering four to six small meals at regular intervals throughout the day and delivering their food in best puzzle feeders rather than a bowl, will allow them to express predatory seeking behavior and ‘hunt’ for their food at home.

Some fussy felines will only drink moving water (cats instinctively know that stagnant water could be contaminated), so they'll wander to find a stream or dripping faucet. Providing them with the best pet water fountain will ensure they always have access to fresh running water.

3. Stick to a routine

Cats are creatures of habit. They thrive on stability and predictability. Maintaining consistent feeding, playtime and handling routines will help them to feel in control of their environment, reducing anxiety in cats or frustration, which may trigger them to roam.

4. Encourage your cat’s natural instincts

Our feline friends have an innate need to climb and perch up high, scratch to stretch their bodies, mark their territory and keep their claws in tip-top condition, and engage in predatory behavior. Installing cat trees and wall shelving, providing plenty of scratching posts and mats, and scheduling regular interactive play sessions using wand toys will help to fulfil these needs at home and reduce their inclination to roam.

5. Create a safe and secure home environment

Ensure your kitty feels safe and secure at home by eliminating or minimizing stressors that may encourage them to seek refuge elsewhere. If a thunderstorm or fireworks display is predicted, provide cozy hiding places, close the drapes or blinds, put the television on or play calming classical music to distract from the loud noises, and consider using a pheromone plug-in diffuser to help reduce fear and anxiety.

6. Provide a safe, stimulating outdoor environment

Enclosing your yard with cat fencing or constructing a catio will allow your cat to exercise and satisfy their natural curiosity and desire to explore without roaming further afield.

Furnish their outdoor space with outdoor climbing trees and perches, create shady, sheltered resting spots and grow cat-safe plants. Get creative with outdoor enrichment - ball pits are just as much fun for cats as they are for kids! Hide treats and catnip toys among the balls to encourage your feline friend to engage in predatory seeking behavior.

7. Train a reliable recall

Teaching your cat to come when their name is called is one of the most valuable behaviors you can train. It will allow you to get them to check in with you regularly and encourage them to stay close to home. The key to success is using positive reinforcement, rewarding your kitty with the best cat treats every time they respond to your call. This ensures the prospect of returning to you is always appealing.

8. Make sure they’re microchipped

Whether your kitty is a homebody or an avid explorer, it’s essential to get them microchipped so they can quickly be identified and reunited with you if they ever roam and can’t find their way home.

How far away can a cat hear you calling?

If you’ve ever witnessed your feline friend seemingly appear from nowhere at the sound of a can opening or food packet rustling, it’s probably no surprise to learn that cats have exceptionally sharp hearing.

The shape of their ears helps to capture and amplify sounds and their ability to rotate them allows them to accurately pinpoint which direction a noise is coming from. Cats can hear sounds produced up to 3,000 feet away, approximately four to five times farther than humans.

The distance from which a cat can hear you calling will vary depending on their individual level of auditory perception, the environment, and ambient noise levels. Research published in the Animal Cognition journal shows that cats can distinguish their caregiver’s voice from that of strangers.

They are particularly sensitive to the high-frequency vocalizations made by their prey, so may be more likely to hear and respond to you from a distance if you call using a high-pitched tone of voice.

Tractive Cat Mini Tracker

Want to find out how far your cat goes each day? This little gadget will show you just that and more!

Wondering whether you should let your cat go outside? We investigate the pros and cons of Indoor vs outdoor cats . If you’ve decided to let your kitty out for the first time, our guide explains How to make the transition from indoor to outdoor cat as smooth as possible.

Claire Stares is a freelance writer and book author. She holds a BA (Hons) in English and a MA in Creative Writing and is currently enrolled on the MSc Clinical Animal Behavior program at the University of Edinburgh. Claire has a particular interest in feline behavior, welfare, and training, and holds an International Cat Care Certificate in Advanced Feline Behavior for Cat Professionals and a Diploma in Feline Health and Welfare. She has completed the ILLIS Animal Behaviour Courses Advanced Animal Training course and the Karen Pryor Academy Train Your Cat course. 

She shares her home with five cats and volunteers for a cat welfare charity, so she's passionate about exploring how cat guardians can use positive reinforcement training and environmental enrichment to facilitate cooperative care, prevent problem behaviors, improve cats’ quality of life, and strengthen the cat-human bond. 

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How Far Did Frodo & Sam Walk in The Lord of the Rings?

• J. R. R. Tolkien had a great attention to detail in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, which allows fans to actually track the distances that the Fellowship, especially Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee, traveled.
• Frodo and Sam traveled over a thousand miles from the Shire to Mount Doom in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, over multiple landscapes and terrains.
• Thanks to Tolkien's world-building, fans also know that Frodo and Sam's journey took a much shorter time than many people might assume due to the great distance.

Frodo and Sam's journey across Middle-earth is a long and physically exhausting trek over some dangerous territory. And part of what makes their adventure so compelling is the simplicity of it, as their goal is to make it from one point to another before Sauron's power grows too strong, all while avoiding detection. This walk takes many grueling months for the two Hobbits to complete, and the total distance they walk throughout The Lord of the Rings is equally impressive. Through craggy rocks, flat marshes, caves of giant spiders and the slopes of Mount Doom, Frodo and Sam walk along hundreds of miles. And this is all while they try to avoid armies of Orcs and Sauron's legions spreading across Middle-earth. Then, of course, there's the most difficult task of all -- carrying the One Ring . It may appear like a light trinket, but what it houses is a painful burden for even the strongest minds.

Author J.R.R. Tolkien had a strong eye for detail, and took care to work out many of the logistical necessities of Frodo's journey, such how far he would have to go and how many days he would have to do it. Thanks to information in the Appendices of his celebrated trilogy, as well as a map provided in most printings of the text, it's possible to chart the exact time and distance traveled in each stage of Frodo's journey.

Updated on March 22, 2024 by Robert Vaux: The wonderful maps from Tolkien's various published works let readers see exactly where the protagonists travel in Middle-earth. That in turn helps better paint the picture of a huge fantasy world -- full of its own kingdoms, landmarks and history -- and bring epic events such as the War of the Ring to life. The article has been expanded to include new details on Frodo and Sam's journey in terms of distance traveled. It has also been updated to match CBR's current style guidelines.

How Fans Can Measure Distance in The Lord of the Rings

The lord of the rings: merry and pippin's best quotes.

Tolkien was a famous nature lover who disdained modern conveniences, and his proclivities are reflected in the text of The Lord of the Rings. The Hobbits, for instance, are portrayed as quiet farmers and country gentry, while Elves exist in harmony with the natural world around them. On a subtler level, both of his major narratives -- The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings -- are essentially long walks: the former from Bag End to the Lonely Mountain, the latter from Bag End to Mount Doom. The prospect gave the author ample opportunity to explore the countryside of Middle-earth, and the novels are filled with lush descriptions of the trees, hills, valleys, and underground caverns of the Hobbits' journeys.

That came with a huge amount of detail, as Tolkien built up the world of Middle-earth itself as part of his writing. Most importantly, his son Christopher created a map of Middle-earth in 1953, as his father was preparing to publish The Lord of the Rings for the first time. Tolkien referred to it in his notes as "the general map," and versions of it have been included in every edition of Th e Lord of the Rings published since. Most helpfully, it includes a scale in miles, which lets readers chart just how much walking Frodo and the various members of the Fellowship did, as well as Bilbo's journey to The Lonely Mountain and back again. Dedicated runners and outdoor enthusiasts can even attempt to walk the same distance in a given amount of time. It's one more example of just how thorough Tolkien was with his world-building, and how well Middle-earth has endured accordingly. It also makes the question relatively easy to answer.

How Many Miles Frodo and Sam Travel in The Lord of the Rings

The distance between the village of Hobbiton and the village of Bree is 120 miles. With these two points marked on Middle-earth's map, it's possible to gauge the distance the Fellowship traveled throughout the trilogy. So, with their first destination being Rivendell, it's estimated that the Hobbits traveled 420 miles starting from the Shire. They take about a month to cover that distance, which is quite impressive considering it takes place entirely on foot.

Rivendell is where the Fellowship is formed, and the journey properly begins. After about two months' of rest, the Fellowship sets out, and together, the group travels roughly 475 miles until Boromir dies and they separate for good. During this time, they travel over mountains and through Dwarven ruins, as well as another rest stop in the Elven stronghold of Lothlorien for about a month. Using boats after visiting Lady Galadriel helped with some of that: covering about 300 miles by the map much faster than they could normally march. From that point, Frodo and Sam walk 340 miles to Mount Doom, and the final total of their journey is estimated to be approximately 1235 miles.

Frodo set out from Bag End in late September, and it's known the One Ring is finally destroyed on March 25. So, over this six-month period, they traveled almost 1300 miles, which averaged around seven miles per day. However, it was far from a consistent journey, as the Fellowship spent almost two months resting in Rivendell and later spent nearly a month with the Elves of Lothlorian . So, the traveling time was around three months, which averaged a little less than 14 miles walked per day. Even with a boat taking them some of the way, this was an impressive feat for such small Hobbits, let alone ones that were trying to hide from Sauron . And including the times they were slowed down -- climbing through mountains, traversing dangerous swamps, and battling the spider Shelob -- shows how persistent the two Hobbits really were.

How Long Frodo and Sam's Journey Took in The Lord of the Rings

How did gandalf and saruman age in the lord of the rings.

Even moreso, the care with which Tolkien assembled his timeline lends quiet insight into the pacing of the narrative. Early in their journey, the Hobbits maintain a brisk pace: sticking to roads and fields. That's accentuated by Frodo's flight to the Ford of Rivendell to end the first part of their quest. Once the Fellowship is formed, the pace slows again, which can be explained away by camping in the wilderness. Time and energy need to be set aside to make and break camp, as well as activities like hunting to secure food. Once the Fellowship breaks, Sam and Frodo maintain a blistering pace for a little more than a week: first attempting to enter Mordor by the Black Gate, then traveling south to Minas Morgul, where they climb the Stairs of Cirtih Ungol and have their battle with Shelob. Presumably, the Hobbits are marching from dawn until dusk at this stage: rarely bothering to set camp or start a fire, and relying largely on Elven lembas bread to keep moving. Finally, the quest ends in an agonizingly slow march through Mordor itself. Both the text and Peter Jackson's film adaptation have the Hobbits literally crawling on their hands and knees towards Mount Doom at one point.

The apt reflection of the drama in Tolkien's timetable shows how much thought he put into the quest of the Ring, and the way he established a clear, plausible timetable for his protagonists to actually be able to make the journey he was sending them on. While Frodo and Sam's quest was already impressive enough, the short time it took them to complete it makes it all the more special. They travel through so many different landscapes that it can be easy to assume the journey takes a year or even longer. But for them to walk across Middle-earth in half that time shows why they were the perfect people for the task:

The Lord of the Rings trilogy is currently streaming on Max.

The Lord of the Rings

The Lord of the Rings is a series of epic fantasy adventure films and television series based on J. R. R. Tolkien's novels. The films follow the adventures of humans, elves, dwarves, hobbits and more in Middle-earth.

Created by J.R.R. Tolkien

First Film The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring

Latest Film The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies

Upcoming Films The Lord of The Rings: The War of The Rohirrim

First TV Show The Lord of the Rings The Rings of Power

Latest TV Show The Lord of the Rings The Rings of Power

First Episode Air Date September 1, 2022

Cast Charlie Vickers, Liv Tyler, Hugo Weaving, Sean Astin, Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Sean Bean, Andy Serkis, Richard Armitage, Martin Freeman, Cate Blanchett, Ismael Cruz Cordova, Morfydd Clark, Billy Boyd, Orlando Bloom, Viggo Mortensen, Miranda Otto, John Rhys-Davies, Dominic Monaghan

Character(s) Sauron, Gollum

Video Game(s) The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of The Rings: Battle For Middle-Earth 2, The Lord of the Rings: The Third Age, The Lord Of The Rings: Battle For Middle-Earth, LEGO Lord of the Rings , Lord of the Rings Online, The Lord Of The Rings: Gollum, The Lord of the Rings: War in the North

Genre Action-Adventure, Fantasy

Where to Stream Max, Hulu, Prime Video

Where is Voyager 1 now? Repairs bring space probe back online as journey nears 50 years

After many months of extremely long-distance repairs, NASA’s Voyager 1 space probe is fully operational once again.

“The spacecraft has resumed gathering information about interstellar space,” the agency announced last Thursday, and has resumed its normal operations.

The spacecraft , now travelling through interstellar space more than 15 billion miles from Earth, began sending back corrupted science and engineering data last November.

Over the ensuing months, engineers worked to troubleshoot the problem, a tedious and complicated process given the vast distance between Earth and Voyager 1. Each message took 22.5 hours to transmit, meaning each communication between engineers and the spacecraft was a nearly two day long process.

By April, NASA engineers had traced to root of the problem to a single chip in Voyager 1’s Flight Data System, allowing them to begin rearranging lines of computer code so that the spacecraft could continue transmitting data. Last month, NASA announced that it had restored functionality to two of the spacecraft’s science instruments, followed by the announcement last week that Voyager 1 had been fully restored to normal operations.

Voyager 1: Still traveling 1 million miles per day

Launched in 1977 along with its sister craft Voyager 2, the twin craft are robotic space probes that are now the longest operating spacecraft in history. Their initial mission was to study the outer planets of Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune, but they have continued their long journey in the ensuing decades, travelling farther and wider than any other man-made object in history.

In 1990, Voyager 1 transmitted the famous “ Pale Blue Dot ” photograph of Earth, taken when the spacecraft was 3.7 billion miles from the Sun.

By 2012, Voyager 1 became the first spacecraft to enter interstellar space, where they have continued transmit data on plasma waves, magnetic fields and particles in the heliosphere – the outermost region of space directly influenced by the Sun.

As part of their one-way mission, both Voyager spacecraft also carry copies of the “ Golden Records ,” gold plated copper discs containing sounds and images from Earth that were curated by the astronomer Carl Sagan.

Currently travelling roughly one million miles per day, Voyager 1 will continue it journey until at least early next year, when NASA estimates that diminishing power levels may “ prevent further operation .”

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Tracking the Remnants of Alberto

By William B. Davis, Madison Dong, Judson Jones, John Keefe, and Bea Malsky

The remnants of Alberto were over Mexico Thursday afternoon Mexico Central Time, according to the National Hurricane Center.

The system had sustained wind speeds of 30 miles per hour.

Where did it rain?

Tropical cyclones typically drop large amounts of rain along and near the storm's path. The slower and more significant the storm’s size, the higher the likelihood of higher rainfall totals. Some storms can drop well over 30 inches of rainfall, like when Hurricane Harvey dropped over 60 inches near Nederland, Texas, in 2017.

What did the storm look like from above?

Satellite imagery can help determine the strength, size and cohesion of a storm. The stronger a storm becomes, the more likely an eye will form in the center. When the eye looks symmetrical, that often means the storm is not encountering anything to weaken it.

Alberto is the first named storm to form in the Atlantic in 2024.

In late May, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicted that there would be 17 to 25 named storms this year, an above-normal amount.

This season follows an overly active year, with 20 named storms — including an early storm later given the official name of “Unnamed.” It was the eighth year in a row to surpass the average of 14 named storms. Only one hurricane, Idalia, made landfall in the United States.

Typically, the El Niño pattern that was in force last season would have suppressed hurricanes and reduced the number of storms in a season. But in 2023, the warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic blunted El Niño’s usual effect of thwarting storms.

The warm ocean temperatures that fueled last year’s season returned even warmer at the start of this season, raising forecasters’ confidence that there would be more storms this year. The heightened sea surface temperatures could also strengthen storms more rapidly than usual.

To make matters worse, the El Niño pattern present last year is also diminishing, most likely creating a more suitable atmosphere for storms to form and intensify.

Hurricanes need a calm environment to form, and, in the Atlantic, a strong El Niño increases the amount of wind shear — a change in wind speed and/or direction with height — which disrupts a storm's ability to coalesce. Without El Niño this year, clouds are more likely to tower to the tall heights needed to sustain a powerful cyclone.

Sources and notes

Tracking map Source: National Hurricane Center | Notes: The map shows probabilities of at least 5 percent. The forecast is for up to five days, with that time span starting up to three hours before the reported time that the storm reaches its latest location. Wind speed probability data is not available north of 60.25 degrees north latitude.

Wind arrivals table Sources: New York Times analysis of National Hurricane Center data (arrival times); U.S. Census Bureau and Natural Earth (geographic locations); Google (time zones) | Notes: The table shows predicted arrival times of damaging, 58 m.p.h. winds in select cities when there is a chance such winds could reach those locations. “Earliest possible” times are times when, if damaging winds do arrive, there is at least a 10 percent chance they will arrive at the time shown. “Most likely” times are times when, if damaging winds do arrive, there is an equal chance that such winds will arrive before and after the time shown.

Radar map Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration via Iowa State University | Notes: These mosaics are generated by combining the 130+ individual RADARs that comprise the NEXRAD network.

Storm surge map Source: National Hurricane Center | Notes: The actual areas that could become flooded may differ from the areas shown on this map. This map accounts for tides, but not waves and not flooding caused by rainfall. The map also includes intertidal areas, which routinely flood during typical high tides.

Satellite map Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration| Notes: Imagery only updates between sunrise and sunset of the latest storm location.