How to make travel with your cat enjoyable
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 feline's travel experience, makes me assume you have already taken the basic steps to know how your felines accepts travel.
That means you are familiar with the effects travel has on your feline. You have taken car trips that vary in length and have introduced slowly the idea of travel, other than to the veterinarian. By now, you know your feline is comfortable with all of its carriers and treats them like it's 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 paper towels, antibacterial wipes, spare towels and bedding, just to name of few.
Next, the all-important decision: What type of carrier should I choose? The length of the trip will dictate the size and material of the carrier.
For short trips, a sturdy padded canvas or leather carrier with mesh combination works for ease of travel for you, as well as for the comfort and breathability of your feline. A strap or handle 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, 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 out for machine washing. Even with deodorizing and washing, a sun bath 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 cushions 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 weight limit advised for the carrier. Unless you buy the top-of-the-line feline tote, you may want to consider a soft-sided dog carrier to handle the extra weight.
If your feline is dexterous and can open zippers, you might consider twist ties or zip ties where the zippers meet. Zippers are usually at both ends of the carrier; the top giving you an easy time loading your feline.
Safety increases the price of a carrier as does luxury. Some carriers offer a luxury sleeping quarter like a hammock that is suspended over a litter pan. They also have seat belt locking. For all the room they take set up, they are still easy to store because 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 type of plastic 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 spillproof, but they spill less. The rim are resigned 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 list of your cleanup supplies might include a small dust pan and broom or a small, battery operated, 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 apps. It has a veterinary hospital locater and first-aid tips.
Follow these tips, and have a safe and enjoyable trip with 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.