Life with pets | PETS
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cat on your lap, she might become distressed
and scramble around the car, which is very
distracting for the driver.
Dr Natalya Higgins from Greencross
Vets Ocean Reef says for safety reasons, it’s
important to have pets restrained. “The best
transport option is a cat carrier,” she advises.
“Buy one that is big enough for your cat to lie
down and turn around in, and it should also
be clipped into the seatbelt.” If your cat isn’t
properly restrained, you may also be fined.
To get your cat used to a cat carrier, crate
train your cat while he’s a kitten, Dr Natalya
suggests. If your cat isn’t crate trained, leave
the cat carrier on the ground with the door
open so your cat can explore it and leave her
scent there. Pop your cat’s favourite blanket
inside the crate; the familiar scent will be
comforting. Don’t feed the cat a meal for
several hours before travel. Then before you
leave, add a toy and a small treat.
Avoiding escape
Because cats can become stressed in
unfamiliar environments, Dr Natalya says it’s
best not to let your cat out of the cat carrier,
and car, along the way. “Only do so if your cat
is used to a lead and harness while walking
and you are in a safe place,” she advises. “A
better option is to have a carrier for long trips
that is big enough for a small litter tray and a
small food and water bowl.”
Before you open the car door, ensure
you fasten the harness and lead so puss
doesn’t escape in all the excitement of being
somewhere new and different.
Helping your cat adjust
If your feline is anxious in the car, you’ll
probably hear him meowing (as if to say ‘let me
out of here’) and he may try to escape, so make
sure the carrier latch is securely fastened.
If your cat is frightened or prone to motion
sickness, it helps to take a few short test runs
around the block, increasing the duration of
the trips.
Dr Natalya says nervous cats, and those that
get an upset tummy from motion sickness, can
be helped by your vet. “There are calmatives
like cat pheromones and medications that
you can use for travel sickness and anxiety,”
she explains. You can spray the pheromone
in the cage and in the car — your cat will
detect the scent but humans can’t. If your cat
is particularly stressed about car travel, it can
also help to cover the cage, with a towel or
blanket, Dr Natalya adds.For longer journeys
When taking your cat on holiday or if
you’re moving house, make sure your
feline has identification on her collar and is
microchipped. “If you’re planning on travelling
interstate, check with your vet to see the
microchip is one that can be recognised
nationally — not just in your state,” Dr Natalya
urges. “Also, make sure your cat’s flee, tick
and worming treatments are up to date and
that you have enough medication for your cat
while you’re away.”
Long-haired breeds such as Persians and
Himalayans can overheat, so keep your pet
carrier out of the sun and fix a sunshade to
the interior window if needed.
Don’t ever leave your cat in a locked car.
It can get very hot very quickly and your cat
could risk dehydration or death.Travelling by air
Airlines have rules that need to be followed.
Many have special carriers for animals or will
need to approve your carrier before travel. For
more information, contact the airline you plan
to fly with.Long-trip travel tipsLong-trip travel tips
- Always check the accommodation is
pet-friendly before you leave home.
-^ Pack a small cat fi rst-aid kit, including
all medications/supplements. - Put a small food and water bowl
and small litter tray in the cat carrier. - Check the car air-conditioning is
working to keep your cat cool.