How to take a trip with your feline
If you are looking to purchase travel accessories to make your feline's road trip more enjoyable, I have a few suggestions.
Just the fact that you are looking for ways to enhance your felines' travel experience, I will assume you have taken the basic steps to know how your feline accepts travel.
That means you are familiar with the effects of travel on your feline. You have taken car trips, other than to the veterinarian, that vary in length and have introduced slowly the idea of travel. By now, you know your feline is comfortable with all if its carriers and treats them like home away from home. That would also include favorite bedding and toys. All health and veterinary issues have also been previously addressed, including the possibility of motion sickness. If you are the main guardian of care, a list of every day essentials should be a cinch to pack. Don't forget the extra cleanup supplies like extra paper towels, antibacterial wipes, spare towels and bedding, just to name a few.
Next, the all important decision, what type of carrier should I choose? The length of trip will dictate the size and material of the carrier.
For short trips, a sturdy padded canvas or leather with mesh combination works for ease of travel, for you as well as the comfort of your feline. A strap of handle choice makes it easy to carry. This type of carrier should also have seat belt straps or loops to keep it secure.
I consider this type of carrier a good investment. Not only can it be used for short jaunts about, it is also approved for airline travel.
The only drawback to the soft carrier is its washability. Try and look for a pad that snaps our for machine washing. Even with deodorizing and washing, a sunbath may be in order to remove any residual odor.
Disposable puppy pads are a help with a soft carrier. You can double-line the carrier with a couple of puppy pads and washable cushion to avoid a permanent smell in the carrier in case of an accident.
If your feline is of significant poundage, make sure you read the advised weight limit for the carrier. Unless you buy a top of the line feline tote, you may want to consider a soft-sided dog carrier that may handle the extra weight and the chew-factor better.
If your feline is dexterous and can open the zippers, you might consider ties where the zippers meet. Zippers are usually common at both ends of the carrier and at the top to give you an easy time loading your feline.
Safety will cause a carrier to have a higher price point as will luxury. Some carriers offer luxury sleeping quarters like a hammock that is suspended over a litter pan. They also have seat belt lock-ins. For all the room they take set up, they are still easy to store as they collapse and fold.
A medium-sized, high impact plastic carrier is probably better suited for longer trips. Handles are easy to grab and the steel door is spring-loaded. Avoid a plastic door if you can. This will be the weak link of the carrier. Not only is the carrier ideal for distance, it is ideal for cleanup and will allow a small litter pan.
Various types of travel bowls are available. I do not consider them spill-proof, but spill less. The rims are designed to help keep the water in the bowl. Rest stops are also a safe time to offer water.
Travel or disposable litter pans that are hard cardboard will not leak. They are available as a single unit or a three-pack. The life of the pan can be extended by adding a puppy pad. These pans are great for longer trips for feline seniors and kittens because the step-in factor is minimal. Extra puppy pads will also save the interior of your vehicle from water and litter splashing.
If you are really a neat freak, the last of your cleanup supplies might include a small dustpan and broom or a battery operated, small, hand held, rechargeable vacuum.
If you are worried about first aid on the road, you can add the Red-Cross Pet First to your phone app for veterinary hospital locaters and first-aid tips.
Being prepared throughout your travels will make the trip both happy and enjoyable for you and your feline.
• The Buddy Foundation, 65 W. Seegers Road, Arlington Heights, is a nonprofit 501(c) 3 shelter. Call (847) 290-5806 or visit www.thebuddyfoundation.org.