If you’ve ever tried to move your cat from the kitchen bench to the couch, you already know: cats don’t love change. So when you suggest going on a holiday together, most cats look at you like you’ve just suggested moving to Mars.
But sometimes travel with your furry mate is unavoidable — maybe you’re moving house, going on a long holiday, or just don’t trust anyone else to give them their perfectly precise half-can of tuna at 6 am sharp. The good news? With the right prep, you can make the journey easier on both of you (and maybe even fun).
Below, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about travelling with your cat — from the first terrifying meow to the moment they finally curl up in a sunny spot at your destination.
Why Travel With Your Cat?
First things first: why bother? Well, for some of us, leaving the cat at home just isn’t an option. Maybe you’ve got a new kitten still bonding with you, or a senior cat who needs meds and can’t be left alone. Or maybe you’re like many of us and think, “If my cat isn’t coming, I’m not going either.”
Travel can be stressful for cats, but with planning, you can make it surprisingly smooth. Some cats even become seasoned road warriors, popping out to explore new hotel rooms like mini tigers on tour.
Get Your Cat Comfortable With the Carrier
Most cats think the carrier equals vet. And that equals horror. So, your first mission is to turn the carrier into a happy, safe zone.
Leave the carrier out in your home for at least a few weeks before your trip. Line it with their favourite blanket, chuck in some treats, and pop in a few kitten toys to encourage play inside it. You want them to see it as a cozy cubby, not a medieval torture device.
If your cat is food motivated (who isn’t?), feed them near or even inside the carrier. Over time, they’ll stop side-eyeing it like it’s about to eat them alive.
Pack Like a Pro: Cat Edition
Cats are creatures of comfort — they love familiarity. So, recreate that as much as possible in your travel kit. Here’s what to pack:
- Food and treats (never change food on a trip; upset tummies are the last thing you need)
- Water from home (some cats turn their noses up at different tap water)
- Food and water bowls (preferably their regular ones)
- Litter box and litter — this is where your kitty’s favourite tofu cat litter shines. It’s lightweight, eco-friendly, and controls odour like a dream. You can easily scoop on the road without it stinking up your whole car or hotel room.
- Kitten toys to keep them occupied and soothe anxiety
- Favourite blanket or bed — smells like home, feels safe
- Harness and leash for secure stops outside
- Cleaning supplies (accidents happen)
- Carrier or travel crate (always)
Road Tripping With Your Cat
Driving gives you a bit more control than flying. You can stop when you need, control the temperature, and avoid the chaos of airports.
· Safety First
Your cat should always travel in their carrier, secured with a seatbelt. Free-roaming cats in the car are dangerous — they can get under pedals, leap onto the dash, or bolt when you open a door.
· Plan Pit Stops
Unlike dogs, most cats don’t love the idea of walking around at a servo. But longer trips might require litter breaks, food, and water. Some cats will use a travel litter tray inside the car if you set it up during a stop.
· Keep the Vibes Calm
Play soft music, avoid sudden starts and stops, and speak gently. The goal: zen-like road trip, not heavy metal festival.
Flying With Your Cat
Air travel can be trickier, but totally doable.
· Know the Rules
Each airline has different policies. Some allow cats in the cabin if they’re under a certain weight and inside an approved soft carrier. Others require pets to travel as cargo.
· At the Airport
Get there early, stay calm, and keep your cat secure. Many airports require you to take your cat out of the carrier at security — having a snug, escape-proof harness is essential here.
· During the Flight
In-cabin cats usually stay under the seat in front of you. Line the carrier with a pee pad and bring extra in case of accidents. Some cats will be quiet as mice; others may voice their displeasure loudly enough to make you consider moving to the baggage hold yourself.
Staying Somewhere New
When you arrive, set up a safe space first. A quiet room with their litter tray with clumping litter, food, water, and their favourite blanket.
Let your cat come out of the carrier at their own pace. Some cats will immediately start exploring; others will prefer to hide and watch you suspiciously for a few hours (or days).
Dealing With Anxiety
Travel anxiety is normal. Here’s how to help:
- Use pheromone sprays or wipes in the carrier and new space
- Offer comfort items from home
- Try gentle play sessions with toys to distract them
- Avoid overwhelming them with too many new people or loud noises
Consider Alternatives
Let’s be honest — some cats just aren’t built for travel. If your cat is extremely anxious or has health issues, you might want to consider a pet sitter or a cat boarding facility.
But if your cat can manage it (and you do the prep), travelling together can deepen your bond and create some seriously cute photo ops.
Let Adventure Begin
Travelling with a cat isn’t for the faint-hearted. It involves planning, patience, and a sense of humour. But with the right gear (don’t forget the tofu cat litter and kitten toys), a comfy carrier, and a calm mindset, it’s totally possible to have a smooth journey.
At the end of the day, seeing your cat curled up contentedly in a new sunbeam or confidently inspecting a hotel room like they own the place is worth every bit of effort.
So next time you’re itching for an adventure, don’t leave your whiskered mate behind — just plan smart, pack well, and hit the road together.
Happy travels!
