Most cats hate going for a ride in the car, which can make it hard for you to bring your furry friend to the vet or cat hotel. While it might seem there’s no way around the fear and anxiousness your pet feels, there are ways to make the trip more comfortable. Try the following suggestions when you’re next planning to transport your cat.

How to Keep Your Cat Calm During Transport

1. Use the Correct-Size Travel Carrier

Whenever traveling with your cat, they should be safely secured inside a carrier. It needs to be big enough for them to stand up, stretch, and turn around. It should also offer plenty of ventilation. Place a comfortable blanket or padding inside to prevent them from sliding around. 

2. Make Their Carrier Familiar

House cats are very consistent. They like to eat, drink, and sleep in the same familiar spots. Introducing new locations or objects can cause some confusion and take a little time to adjust. Placing them inside a carrier once every few months can cause anguish because they are trapped inside a place they don’t recognize. 

Avoid this stress by leaving their carrier in a spot they like to frequent, such as that favorite sunny place on the floor or near a window. They’ll inspect it and, eventually, with the help of their favorite blankets and treats, they won’t see it as a foreign object and will enter it willingly.

3. Stay in Sight

If you’ve ever had to travel with your cat out of a carrier, they probably spent the trip climbing on top of you. It is safer to take your fluffy friend to the cat sitter or vet in their crate but try to place it where they can see you through the gate or holes in the siding. This way, they’ll be less likely to feel like they’re being abandoned. Also, try to talk to them, especially if they are meowing, as the sound of your voice will offer some comfort. 

Help calm your kitty’s nerves by taking them to a place they’ll enjoy like Pounce Hawaii. Since 2019, this luxurious cat hotel has provided daycare and boarding services for felines throughout Honolulu, HI. You don’t have to worry about your cat getting lonely or being caged while you’re at work or on vacation. Here they’ll spend their time in comfortable private suites filled with toys, bedding, and climbing fixtures. Call (808) 594-3168 today to schedule a private tour, and visit their website to learn more about these cat sitters and the pet care they provide.