How to Handle Holiday Travel with Your Cats

If you’re planning to make any holiday excursions this winter season, whether it’s to visit family or to get out of town for a scenic long weekend, you’re likely wondering what kind of accommodations you should make for your cat while you’re away.

Cat owners face a difficult decision while traveling. Some prefer to take their cats on holiday with them, while others would rather leave the cats at home, perhaps with a sitter. Still other cat owners may choose to leave their cats in a boarding kennel.

Determining the best solution for you and your cat can be a true challenge. It often is determined by the nature of your trip, how you’ll be traveling and for how long you’ll be away. Additionally, your budget will play a factor in how you choose to travel with your cat.

Regardless of what you decide to do, it’s important to make sure that your cat is in excellent health prior to your departure. Visiting a cat vet in Alexandria, VA is the best way to ensure that your furry friend is ready for the road ahead—whether they’re joining you or hunkering down back at home.

Traveling with your cat

While it can be hard to leave your pet for even a few days, traveling with your cat may not always be the best option. There are several things that you should consider before deciding whether or not you want to bring your cat with you.

If you have to fly to your destination, it’s advisable to avoid bringing your pet along. Air travel is dangerous and stressful for most pets, but it can be particularly traumatic for cats. Additionally, some types of cats may have trouble breathing, even in a pressurized cabin.

Driving or taking a train with your cat can be a much more pleasant experience. While traveling with your cat, make sure that they always have access to plenty of food and water, and that they’re in a secured, comfortable container throughout the duration of the trip.

The type of trip that you’re taking will also affect whether or not you should bring your pet. If you’re planning to spend the majority of your time indoors at a relative’s house, bringing your cat may be worthwhile. If you’re going to spend the majority of your time out and about, leaving your cat alone in a strange hotel room may traumatize them.

Leaving your cat

Cats are inherently territorial creatures. Because of this, they’ll always prefer to stay in their own abode. Hiring a pet-sitter to stay at your home is likely the best way to ensure that your cat is comfortable while you’re away.

If you choose to leave your pet at a boarding kennel, however, there are some benefits. Most crucially, there are qualified veterinary technicians who will be able to treat your cat effectively if anything goes wrong.

Kingstowne Cat Clinic is a trusted cat vet in Alexandria, VA. Regardless of your holiday plans, be sure to bring your furry friend in for a checkup before leaving town!

Categorised in: Cat Veterinarian

This post was written by Writer