How to Move With a Cat in the Car

Making a move with a feline friend does not have to be a difficult experience. Some cats have high sensitivity to stress and may become highly animated when traveling in a car. A cat that has particular problems traveling in a car may need some kind of sedative. Consult a veterinarian if moving and planning to administer any kind of sedative to a cat. Remember, these problems can be prevented by adequate exposure of the cat to car travel as a kitten.

Things You'll Need

  • Cat carrier
  • Natural remedies for feline stress (optional)
  • Litter box and litter
  • Cat food
  • Water for cat
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Instructions

  1. Preparation

    • 1

      If at all possible, plan in advance for the move. If the moving date is known when the cat is a kitten, take the kitten out for car rides occasionally. This will make the kitten more open to being in a car later on in life. Also, make sure to get the kitten accustomed to a cat carrier.

    • 2

      Visit the cat's current veterinarian before leaving town. Make sure to leave with updated records on the animal's medical and vaccination history, as well as a current supply of any medications for the trip.

    • 3

      Consider using a natural, homeopathic remedy to help calm the cat down during the car ride. Ask a veterinarian about options that are on the market, especially for anxious pets.

    • 4

      Plan how to pack the car in advance. Make sure no large objects are going to be piled on top of the cat's carrier. Also, make sure the carrier is not going to be in the way of the driver. Remember to leave the spot for the cat carrier accessible when loading the car.

    • 5

      After the car is loaded, place the cat carrier in its place and check its stability. Check the air holes in the carrier for potential obstructions. Place any natural remedies in a place with easy access in case of a stressful fit of meowing. For example, you can put them in the glove compartment. Also, clean the cat's litter box and prepare a small supply of new litter. Place the litter in the car.

    Moving

    • 6

      Put the cat into the carrier and place it in car. Talk to the cat in a calm voice. In other words, don't yell. Yelling at the cat for meowing a lot probably will not help.

      Place the cat's litter box either in the crate or carrier with it, or in a place where the cat can see it. Make sure the cat knows where the litter box is located. According to the Doctors Foster and Smith website, cats that get nervous on car rides might have to use the litter box more than usual.

    • 7

      Make sure the cat has access to food and water. If the water will be sloshing around and making a mess in the car, use wet food.

    • 8

      Once at the new location, get the cat accustomed to its surroundings slowly. According to Doctors Foster and Smith, the cat will likely want to travel around the new area to get used to all of the new smells. After getting a feel of the new territory, the cat will likely hide. Place food, water and a litter box nearby so the cat can easily find it.