A few weeks ago, we talked about how to travel by car with your ARISTOPERRO. Since then, many ARISTOPARENTS have asked us for tips for traveling by car with your cats, so today we will talk about it.
Cats are the kings of the house, and in most cases they do not particularly enjoy a change of scenery. They are creatures of habit, and if you are going on a quick trip, it may be best to leave them at home, as they tend to become stressed when they leave their surroundings. Unlike dogs, cats can stay at home while a trusted person visits them every day or two (at most) to give them food and water, clean their litter box, and give them a little attention.
Timed Feeder | Water Fountain | Cat Litter Box
If we are going to travel with them, the best thing you can do is make the process as pleasant as possible for them.
It is very important for the safety of all occupants, including that of your ARISTOGATO, that you follow the appropriate safety measures when transporting them. Never leave them loose in the car. You could be fined, and worst of all, they could distract the driver and cause an accident. Traffic law is not very specific about how to transport your ARISTOGATO in the car, but it says:
“The driver of a vehicle is required to maintain their freedom of movement, the necessary field of vision, and constant attention to driving, ensuring their own safety, that of the other occupants of the vehicle, and that of other road users. To this end, they must take particular care to maintain the proper position and ensure that the other passengers do the same, as well as ensuring that transported objects or animals are properly positioned so that there is no interference between the driver and any of them.”
Harness + Leash Set | Cat Harness
We recommend taking your cat in a carrier. It must be large enough for them to move, lie down, and turn around easily. Preferably, the carrier should be hard-sided. Before the journey, leave it around the house so your cat can interact with it and get used to it. Once in the car, place the carrier in a safe spot: preferably on the floor behind the front seats. NEVER place it on the seats or secure it with the seat belt, as it could be propelled forward in the event of sudden movement.
TIP: Add an absorbent mat to your carrier for extra comfort. Your cat will also be able to relieve itself without wetting the carrier.
Carrier | Absorbent mat | Travel Bag
Make more stops than usual. Take advantage of them to take your cat out of the carrier and let them move around the car, give them some water, play a little, and let them use the litter box if they want.
To help them stay calmer during the journey, place a blanket they especially like or their favorite toy in the carrier. Avoid playing music at a high volume and try to keep the windows closed. Your cat may meow, especially at first. To calm their nerves, talk to them during the journey so they feel more relaxed.
REMEMBER: Under no circumstances should you leave your cat alone and locked in the car. Summer temperatures inside vehicles can be fatal for your pet in a very short time.
Hard Carrier | Bag | Bed Bag
Avoid feeding them for a few hours before the journey to prevent motion sickness, and also try to keep the car well ventilated. Make sure the carrier is positioned so that air can flow in properly and that the inside is well ventilated, with nothing obstructing the airflow, and avoid placing anything on top.
Don't forget that you need to bring their documentation and all the products needed for the vacation: Litter box, food and water bowls, water, food, their favorite toys, a bed…
Have you traveled with your ARISTOGATO in the car yet? How was the experience? You can tell us about it on our social media