Among pets, dogs are the most frequent travelers, accounting for over 85% of pet travelers. Trips to the beach, family vacations, riding in the cab of a truck, traveling to pet friendly accommodations...no matter the adventure, most dogs love rides and can’t wait to hop in and hit the open road. Cats on the other hand - not so much. For cats, traveling typically means going on a trip to the vet (no wonder they don’t like to get in vehicles!). This poses a challenge for cat owners who want to take their cat on the road with them. Just the thought being put in the truck and on the road for hours on end makes their hair stand up and their claws come out.
Are you ready to suppress the tiger and get your kitty purring again? Try the following tips designed to make your cat’s truck travel experience a better one for both of you!
- Pet Carrier Training: Always use a pet travel carrier for your cat when traveling together. The carrier should be large enough for your cat to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Be sure the carrier has proper ventilation. Get your cat used to the carrier in your house. Place it’s bedding, some toys, or maybe some catnip or kibble in the carrier and keep the carrier door open. Let your cat go in and out of the carrier at their leisure. Do this until your cat feels comfortable.
- Familiarity is Comfort: Cats are highly sensitive to the environment and their territory so you want to help to make the truck part of their territory. Place a towel or blanket with your cat’s scent on the cab seat or sleeping area. Put your cat in the cab with you and close the doors, leaving windows down a little for ventilation. Let your cat explore your cab, rub around and spread their scent. Do this a few times a day for a couple minutes and gradually increase the time.
- Positive Reinforcement: Once your cat is calm in the cab of the truck, start feeding him in the cab for at least a week. If play or catnip motivates him more than food, then let your cat indulge in their favorite treat while exploring the cab of the truck. Again, associating the cab with all things good will help make your cat a better traveler.
- Introduce Carrier in Cab: Gradually your cat will begin to accept the cab of the truck as his territory. When he’s at this point, it’s time to introduce the travel carrier into the cab (so be sure you are simultaneously crate training). Put your cat in the carrier and place the carrier in your truck (check to make sure the carrier is secure and away from airbags). Do this at least a few times a day until your cat gets used to it. Reward your cat as soon as he is let out of his carrier.
- Short Rides: Once your cat is used to the truck and engine, it’s time to get on the move. Take short trips up and down the road. Do this a few times then take your cat out of the cab and into the house. Reward him with play time and treats once you let him out of his crate. When you feel your cat is ready, extend your trip and drive around town. Slowly, increase the length and duration of your truck rides. Again, the key is to do this very gradually and reward your cat after each step. Your cat will let you know if it’s not comfortable with the speed of this “truck training.”
- Bathroom Breaks: When you’re traveling a long distance, you’ll need to consider the issue of bathroom breaks for your cat. Harness training your cat is a great idea because this allows you to walk your cat at rest areas. Otherwise, it is recommended that you keep your drive time down to 8 hours at most. At that point allow your cat to have a bathroom break at your night’s destination. You know your cat best, so this time could vary.
- Calm Energy: Throughout the entire process, it’s important for you to be calm. Pets sense your energy. So, when you’re hyped up and stressed, remember they will be too.
When traveling across country with your cat, making them happy in the truck is essential. Helping your cat become more comfortable on the road definitely takes time and a lot of patience. Stick with the plan and take your time. Remember, it’s a gradual process that should not be rushed. Follow each step and in no time, your cat will become the purrfect truck companion! Safe and happy travels with your cat!
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