Fast, Free Shipping in 1-3 Days on all US orders

Tips for Traveling with Your Cat in a Car for Long Distances

cat sitting on grass in front of car

Traveling in cars with cats can often feel like climbing Mount Everest – and that’s just for short trips. Long car rides can be nonstarters, especially considering the amount of stress and anxiety they cause. But it doesn’t have to be this way! With a few tips and a lot of patience, traveling long distances can be a paw-sitive experience for youa and for your cat.

Use the Cozy Comfort Carrier

woman holding her cat in the Cat-in-the-Bag Cozy Comfort Carrier

The Cozy Comfort Carrier is an incredibly useful option for traveling with cats in the car long distance. While protective, hard carriers may cause some cats fear due to confinement. The heads-free design of our soft cat carrier helps combat this fear and keep them comfortable, as does its breathable, 100% cotton fabrication. It’s also great for cat parents looking for a crate-free carrier for long-distance travels.

Made with their needs in mind, the Cozy Comfort Carrier is snag-resistant, scratch-resistant, AND roomy. It comes with a seat-belt pass-through loop for secure car rides and takes up much less space in your car. Vets love it – and cats do, too! Use this lightweight cat carrier for traveling in cars with cats, grooming sessions, or vet visits.

Bring Disposable Liners

Unpacking their litter box and kitty litter can be a hassle when traveling. That’s where Acci-Don’ts come in handy! These ultra-absorbent cat carrier liners stick right to the bottom of their fabric cat carrier to keep your cat clean and dry. No more worrying about wet car seats or carriers, either! The white padding fully absorbs and locks in liquid, while the blue backing helps their carrier remain dry.

Practice Car Rides

You should get your cat acclimated with traveling in a car before diving head first into a long-distance road trip. Be patient – this will likely take multiple sessions. You can begin by letting them sniff and walk around around the back seat, so they’re familiar with their surroundings. Ready to take things up a notch?

  1. Secure your kitty in their seat-belt ready Cozy Comfort Carrier.
  2. Sit in the back seat and offer them treats and praise to show that being in the car is a positive experience.
  3. Begin to go on short car rides around the neighborhood. Keep it under 5 minutes.
  4. Gradually increase the length of car rides until their comfort increases!

Grab Familiar Kitty Comforts

Cats traveling in cars should be kept comfortable to minimize their stress as much as possible. One simple way to do this is by bringing their stuff! This could be their blankets, a favorite pillow, or even a few toys. Keeping these items in the car will help provide a sense of comfort and safety. Toys are also great distractions for anxiety!

Keep them Hydrated

Water is a must for cats traveling in cars – traveling can be dehydrating! Make sure you have plenty of water available. You should also allow time for food and water during rest stops.

Consider Using a Harness & Lead

cat sitting on the grass and wearing colorful shirt and harness

Harnesses are great for adding extra safety and security. They’ll allow you to take your cat out of the car at rest stops to stretch their legs, eat, or drink water. You’ll need to familiarize your kitty with a harness and lead before the trip if they don’t typically use them.

Keep a Moderate Car Temperature

Pay attention to temperature when traveling in cars with cats. You don’t want them to overheat. Turn on your fan/air conditioner and roll down the windows to ensure proper ventilation.

Exercise Them

Traveling with cats in the car long distance isn’t always easy for you or your cat. They can get stressed and have difficulties settling down. If that sounds like your cat, try exercising them before you hit the road. This will help expend some of their energy and tire them out enough to rest.

Feed Your Feline Before the Trip

tabby cat with food bowl

Feed your cat at least four hours before your trip. Traveling in cars can make some cats feel sick or nauseous. Other cats may even experience motion sickness, just like humans do. Feeding them early gives time for their food to digest, which will help prevent any vomiting accidents. Your kitty can eat again during any pit stops. Just be sure to let their food settle for a bit before heading back on the road!

Stick to their Routine

Routine helps cats traveling in cars feel safe and secure. Try maintaining their usual feeding and play times as much as you can. It’s also a good idea to choose a stop with minimal noise to avoid stressful distractions, such as loud passing cars and crowds of people. You’ll want to stick to their routine after you reach your destination, too.

Create a Smooth Ride

Traveling with cats in the car long distance is often made more difficult by rough roads and loud traffic. Prevent any added stress for your cat by keeping your car ride smooth and calm.

  • Avoid bumpy roads and potholes
  • Try not to brake abruptly
  • Keep the car radio off or at a low volume
  • Take breaks if they seem too anxious or restless

Make Traveling in Cars with Cats Easier

Some cats would prefer not to travel, and will make sure you know it. But by using a comfortable cat pouch carrier and a few car ride tips, you can help make traveling with cats in cars long distances easier for everyone. Learn more tips and tricks on our cat blog!

Share:

Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
LinkedIn

Sizing Chart

Sizing Chart