While you’re planning your holiday away with your feline friend, you might want to think about the following things. If you can sort everything out in advance, your holiday will be smoother, less stressful, and way more fun – for your cat and for you!
- Before you set off, make sure your accommodation is cat-friendly. Let them know you’re bringing your pet along so things are ready for your cat’s arrival.
Unless your cat is already familiar with the outdoors where you are going, they will need to be kept inside during your stay. Check that your accommodation is nice and secure.
Check ahead about appropriate toilet facilities for your cat, and whether there is a secure outdoor space for them to be in – they need to be as comfortable as possible.
If you are staying in someone’s home or in a small B&B, before travelling with your cat ask about the presence of other animals. Will your cat be alright with other pets around?
Ensure your cat has everything they need for the first few days of the trip until you find local supply sources such as food, water, treats, litter boxes and a good supply of litter.
If possible, take familiar items from home to help your cat settle in well, such as scratching posts, toys and comfy bedding. Like most humans, cats love their home comforts!
For the journey, take a non-spill water bowl and bottles of freshwater. A hydrated cat is a happier one, and they might need cooling down during the trip.
Place a suitably sized litter box in your cat’s carrier, allowing separate access to their bedding after they have used it – this will make their environment more clean and comfortable.
Alternatively, plan to move your cat safely to a separate carrier for toileting every couple of hours, as this will ensure they stay clean and dry.
However, you deal with the litter situation, pack plenty of plastic bags and cleaning equipment to make sure your cat is never caught short!
Arriving on holiday with your cat
The work doesn’t stop when you arrive at your destination, although by now you’re probably both ready for a bit of a rest! There are just a couple more things to think about, and then your holiday with your cat is ready to begin.
Depending on which country you’re going to, if your cat travels abroad they may need a short period of quarantine. Even if you know they are healthy, it’s a legal requirement in many places – so factor this into your trip!
When you arrive at your accommodation, your cat will appreciate plenty of time to settle in. Just leave them in their carrier in a quiet place while you unpack, then secure the room and allow her out of the carrier to explore at her own place. Go with your cat if you can, moving between rooms until they’ve all been explored and your cat is comfortable.