I'm moving in 1 month, Its only about 2 hours away, I have 4 indoor cats,whats the best way to get them there?

Question

They have never been in a car before and there very skittish. 2 are 5yrs & 2 are 6yrs. One cat is kind of a bully.

Answer 1

For a 2 hour drive, no need to get tranquilizers. Even if they do cry the whole way, it won't hurt them, it will just drive you crazy. All cats are happier riding loose in the car (not in a kennel), but the problem is if it is just you and 4 cats, one could climb down and get in the way of your gas and break pedals and cause big problems. So, I would put them in kennels for the ride. It is up to you whether you use 2 kennels with 2 cats each or 4 kennels with 1 cat each. They will be less skittish and quieter if you have 2 cats per kennel, but don't do it if you think one will be a bully. Secure the kennels in the car, by buckling them or some other method, so that they don't move around when you break. Put towels or blankets in them to make them more comfortable. Don't give them food or water for the ride, but if they have favorite toys, that might be a good idea. Use cruise control and don't take pit stops. Every time you stop your car, break, or speed up, they will wake up and start crying again. I also couldn't listen to the radio with my cat in the car, it had to be silence or a CD because every time the songs went off and the DJ started talking he would start crying again. I would also try to tire them out before hand, don't let them take catnaps the day you are leaving and play with them a lot so they will be ready and willing to fall asleep when you put them in the car. Whatever you do, do NOT try to give them attention while you are driving to get them to stop crying. They'll only start crying harder when you stop paying them attention, and it makes you take your eyes off the road (I know, everyone says they won't, but its really hard not to look over at them when they sound so pathetic). I did talk to my cat, and that did help a lot, but its really hard to talk non-stop to a cat for a 2 hour drive, although talking on my cell phone on a headset worked just about as well for him... if you are able to talk to anyone for that long. They won't use the bathroom in their kennels and they can go more than 2 hours without going, so don't worry about that. Hope this helps.

Answer 2

Hey Sherrie,

Been there, done that! I am moving again and this time with three cats and two dogs going about 14 hours away. Two hours is not a long time for the cats to be confined but here are some tips.

First of all, have them to your vet and discuss their kitty emotional issues with the doc. She/he can prescribe a sedative to keep them calm. There are homeopathic and natural tonics you can also administer; however, these solutions must be given often which can be difficult during a move. GIVE THE SEDATIVE TO THEM ABOUT A HALF AN HOUR BEFORE YOU LEAVE!!!!! Even though I don't give my (kids) medication often; I was grateful I had the meds when we moved the last time.

Next thing is make sure you have carriers that are large enough; two cats can usually fit in one decent size carrier. They now make soft crates that collapse for easy storage. Put the "bully cat" in his/her own crate on the way over.

Once you get to your new destination designate an area that can be closed off (one small bedroom or a large closet) and put a litter pan, bowl of fresh water and an article or two of your unwashed clothing (this is very comforting to them) in the area. Don't be afraid to put all four cats together at first. It is new territory and everyone will be on equal ground so you usually don't have to worry about too much fussing from anyone until they settle in and the games begin again!

Once the movers leave open the door to the room and let them explore at their own pace. Give them some special treats when they emerge in their new digs (positve reinforcement) Sometimes they will stay in that room for days; sometimes they come right out. Just check in on them from time to time to let them know that you are there. Before you know it you will all be right at HOME!

Best Wishes, Deborah V.

Answer 3

Use cat carriers. Put rags or old clothes in them so your kitties will be relatively comfortable. And be prepared for a lot of complaining from the kitty contingent. Oh yes, make sure they've eaten and pottied before you crate them, and when you get them to your new house expect them to hide a while before they come out to explore.

Good luck!

Answer 4

you could put them in a kennel to transport them (one per kennel) that way. if you only have one carrier (kennel) bring the most skittish and so on that way. but if you are brave you can let them all ride outside of a kennel at once. thats how i've always transported my kitties. just make sure that you have the litter box set up before bring them in and that its the first place you put them. good luck on the most.

Answer 5

I saw your question about New Haven/Providence. I thought these links might be helpful!

First, check out this discussion board that compares New Haven with Providence. Also….some great photos of New Haven from the board moderator.

photos:
http://members.cox.net/garrisphotography/Garris%20Photo%20New%20England.html#New_Haven

discussion board:
http://www.urbanplanet.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=15391&pid=2

Answer 6

get cat carriers 4 them
no druggs
they wont like it but it will ceep them contained and safe
you can probly rent them from a pet store
1 cat per carryer

Answer 7

I highly recommend you see your Vet and get a tranquillizer type med for your cats to reduce their anxiety. It would also be a good idea to get a med that prevents nausea.

Once you have given them the meds put them in a cat cage put the cat cage as near to you as possible.

Answer 8

buy some fish heads and tie them to ur back bumper....throw on the 4 way caution lights and go like 15 cats run fast