Unlike most dogs, cats typically aren’t fans of car rides.  Unfortunately, the majority of cats’ “car experience” is gained through visits to the vet.  So, it’s not surprising that they’re not happy car travelers.  Inevitably moving with your cat means a car ride – whether it’s long distance or short.  Planning and preparing your cat well before you move will help to ease his stress and who knows, he may even come to enjoy car rides!

Here are our top tips for helping your cat become more comfortable when riding in the car.

Acclimate Your Cat to Pet Travel Carrier
When traveling by car with your cat, it’s best to have him travel in a pet carrier.  Be sure to choose the proper sized carrier.  It should be large enough so your cat can comfortably stand up, turn around, and lie down. Allow your cat time to acclimate to his new carrier.  Start out by placing the carrier in your house with his favorite toys, bedding, and perhaps some treats or catnip.  Keep the carrier door open so your cat can meander in and out on his own terms.  Be patient and give him time to eventually become comfortable with his new carrier.  Make sure you are continuing this crate training while you simultaneously work on the rest of the tips.

Make the Car Their Territory
Cats are highly sensitive when it comes to their environment.  They are most comfortable in familiar surroundings and in their own territory.  Making the car part of their territory is key in your quest to making them happy travelers.  Grab a blanket that has your cat’s scent and place it on your car seat.  Get in your car with your cat, shut the door, and then let him explore.  Allow your cat to spread his scent around the car.  Start out doing this 2 – 3 times a day for just a couple of minutes.  Gradually increase the duration as your cat seems to feel more comfortable.

Car = Good Things!
After your cat starts feeling calmer in the car, it’s time for some positive reinforcement.  Begin feeding him in your parked car for a week or two.  For cats that are less food motivated, you might want to engage them in play or give them some catnip while in the car. The key is to get your cat to associate the car with good things.

Introduce Pet Carrier into CarWith time, your cat will start to think of the car as his domain.  Once that happens, he’ll be ready for the next step — and that’s to introduce his carrier into your vehicle.  Have your cat get into his carrier, then secure it in the backseat or cargo area of your vehicle.  Avoid placing the carrier near airbags.  The next step is to start your car but don’t drive anywhere.  Keep it in park just so your cat can get accustomed to the sound and vibration of your car.  Practice this “exercise” a few times daily until your cat feels more comfortable.

Start Off with Short Rides
When your cat is more at ease with your car and the engine noise, you can then take it out of  “park”.  Start out slow and short (very short).  Go back and forth, down to the end of your driveway and back again.  Repeat this a few times, then bring your cat into the house, let him out of his carrier and reward him (treats, playtime, etc..).  Gauge your cat’s comfort level.  When he’s ready, gradually increase the length and duration of your car rides.  Be sure to do this very slowly and reward your cat after each step.  

Stay Calm
Do your best to not let the stress of the move or the process of  “car training” your cat get the best of you.  Your cat senses your energy.  So if you’re anxious and out of sorts, your cat is likely to be as well.

Potty Time
In planning your road trip to your new home, you’ll want to think about bathroom breaks for your cat.  Believe it or not, some pet parents use harnesses and leashes for their cats.  This allows them to actually “walk” their cats at rest stops so they can relieve themselves. Since most pet parents use the more traditional litter box, it is recommended to limit your day’s drive time to no more than 8 hours.  This will allow your cat to potty in their litter box set-up at your night’s destination.  You know your cat best, so you can gauge how long he can comfortably “hold it”.

Ensuring that your cat is comfortable with car travel is a must when moving – particularly if it’s a long road trip.  Working with him so that he is acclimated to car travel will certainly take some time — so plan ahead, be patient and go slowly.  
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