I have to travel this week, and will be driving about 2 1/2 hours. I have to bring my cat with me - she will be in her carrier. She has always been fine in the car, but I've never had her in the car for this long. Any advice as to how to keep her calm and happy?
2007-03-21 02:55:14 · 7 answers · asked by Cb60321 2 in Pets ➔ Cats
she will be unsettled by being in the car, but she will be fine. She won't like it, but if there isn't an alternative, there isn't. THe drive won't hurt her. I moved from Oklahoma to Virginia with my two cats, and that's a 3 day drive! 2 1/2 hours is nothing! She might yowl a bit, or even pant (can be scary to cat-owners because cats don't pant). If she does either of those things, don't be too concerned. She's just scared and nervous.
To try to make her calmer, it can help if you put the cat carrier where you can stick your fingers through the holes a bit every so often. That seems to calm them. If you can position her where she can see you that will be a little calming to her as well.
She'll be fine!
The only thing you MUST keep in mind, is if you stop, even if it's just supposed to be a "quick stop." DO NOT LEAVE ALL THE WINDOWS UP!! Even on a 70 degree sunny day, heat can build up inside the car. Heat builds up so quickly that in less than five minutes it can reach death temperature.
If you stop for a potty break or gas break, crack all the windows as far down as you are comfortable with. Also use your car shades. Even this time of year, this is something to be careful of.
You might want to take trash bags, baby wipes and paper towels. Some cats may have "accidents" In the car. (urine, feces, or vomit) That way you can stop at a gas station and clean it up, and not have to smell it for 2 hours. BUT BE SUPER CAREFUL any time you HAVE to let her out of the cage. Do all clean up with you inside the car and ALL DOORS SHUT. Cats, when frightened, can take off before you can blink.
Happy trails to you and kitty
2007-03-21 03:17:21 · answer #1 · answered by Shelly P. Tofu, E.M.T. 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Hello, two and a half hours doesn't seem to be long. However, it will still be best if you use a larger carrier for your cat; preferably, one where you can place a litterbox inside (if you can get one of those disposable litterboxes, the better.) If the carrier is too small for a litterbox to fit in, then make sure that your cat has access to the litterbox when you stop in mid-journey. Stopping in mid-journey is advised so that both of you can have a chance to stretch your legs. Just make sure that your car doors and windows are closed when your pet stretches out.
As for food, bring the usual. If you feed her canned food, get the smallest sizes, and preferably pop-top cans. This will lessen the fuss of feeding your cat. It is also advisable that you first give your cat regular water taken from home. This will decrease the chances of stomach upset from happening during your trip. When you reach your destination, gradually add the new water with water taken from your home until your cat gets used to it.
2007-03-21 10:24:31 · answer #2 · answered by Dowland 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
make sure that you have a harness and leash...if she is not use to one and you have some time get her use to one so that you can stop and let her out of the car for a short time at least once an hour.....putting a dish on her crate door with some ice in it that will melt and give her water as you travel.....make sure where ever your going allows cats and that you have done all the tipical planing....make sure to take food, toys, littler and a box for her to use.....since your an old pro at this im sure that you've taken care of everything....and you'll both be fine..........
2007-03-21 10:06:56 · answer #3 · answered by Rhylie and Paiyden 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Don't feed her 8-12 hours before your trip and don't give her water 4-6 hours before the trip. Also, talk to your vet about maybe a mild sedative to make her goofy and sleepy so she doesn't mind the car ride.
2007-03-21 10:03:51 · answer #4 · answered by Summer 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Make sure and line her carrier with DryFurs pads they are rigid so they stay flat under her they also are cushioned for comfort and if she has accident they Dry completely in less than one minute. No other product will do this not puppy pads either they will just end up bunched int he corner and they do not dry even after an hour.
If she has accident you will not be able to just clean her up she will be very upset sitting in her own waste.
you can find them online at http://www.dryfur.com
http://www.pettravelstore.com or http://www.futurepets.com
2007-03-21 10:46:53 · answer #5 · answered by KittyCondos 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
cats hate travel, especially long ones. i think you need to go to a veterinary to do her a shot beforte you travel so that she can be sleeping during the whole trip. good luck
2007-03-21 10:15:40 · answer #6 · answered by lunacat 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm sure he will be fine just remember to feed and water
2007-03-21 10:03:19 · answer #7 · answered by bigbro108 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋