If you are planning to take a long car trip or big vacation with your cat or kitten, you’ll need to do a little prep work first to keep your pet comfortable and safe on the road or in the air. Follow this checklist and you might preserve a little sanity as well.

Cat Travel Checklist

  1. Bathe your cat and trim its claws ahead of the trip.
  2. Ensure that your pet is identified with either an up-to-date tag on its collar or a microchip. Consider bringing a leash for safety while traveling. Yes, a leash for a cat.
  3. Pack a favorite treat, and make sure to bring plenty of food as well as your pet bowls. Bring a bottle of drinking water. Is your kitten prescribed medicines? Don’t forget those. How about a favorite toy? Bring it.
  4. Transport crates for cats should be the proper size, so that your kitty can stand up and turn around. Larger is better. The crate should be ventilated and have a leakproof bottom; be sure to lay down some absorbent material. Label the crate with your name and contact information. Hopefully you’ve let the cat get accustomed to the carrier here and there over the past few weeks (just leave it open on the floor, and throw a little catnip inside).
  5. You’ll want to have proof of vaccinations if you’re traveling across international borders. If you’re flying, a recent feline health certificate and rabies certification will be required. Check with your airline for any specific regulations or procedures. Place the health certificates in a carrier pocket, or keep them with your air tickets.
  6. Consider packing a first-aid kit. This should include bandages, antiseptic cream and an anti-diarrheal pet med.
  7. Arrive early at the airport and exercise your cat right before departure if possible.
  8. Don’t give any food four hours before flight time. You can provide water up to two hours before the flight. When you reach your destination, definitely provide both. Afterward, try to stick to your normal feeding routine. A plain dry food may be more convenient for a trip.