Cats are territorial animals, who would preferably resist change. Your cat may be in love with you, however, the idea of traveling to new places by your side might elicit stress and behavioral problems.
Hence, you’ve got a duty to keep your pet happy, while giving it a chance to explore a new world; a new territory. We’ve compiled a list of seven actionable steps you can take to reach that destination; a happy cat by your side while you conquer the world!
While traveling, use familiar products
You’d be exposing your cat to the world; a new world. It’s important you take along items from its ‘past’ world. A soft blanket and a familiar toy might help your cat keep calm, while it reminds your feline friend of home.
Give your cat as much attention
One of the highlights of vacations is how easy it is to get caught up in activities that we forget about our pets. During this period, you should understand that your cat needs your attention to keep up with the unexpected changes.
But, how do you do so while still having fun?
- Feed your cat well. If possible, use the same brand of food as you’ve always used. Doing so will give your pet a feeling of home.
- Show efforts to keep your cat clean.
- Pet your cat. Cats do love to interact with their owners. While on the holiday, ensure you cuddle your cat at least twice daily.
Reading Suggestion: Pet Carrier All You Need to Know
Give your cat freedom
As much as you’d love your four-footed feline friend to get used to the new environment as fast as possible, don’t force it. Give your pet time to get used to the new smells and sights.
Also, cats love to have private spaces. Such private spaces need not be elaborate. In fact, a backpack with a bubble could do the trick.
Also, placing their private space close to the window would be a great step, as cats love observing their environment. Again, you’d create an avenue for your cat to get used to the new environment without intruding into its personal space.
Provide entertainment for your cat
You know cats love toys, right? Of course, they do!
During your escapade, you might need some alone time with friends and family. At this moment, the need for a toy becomes evident.
You can make your own cat toys. For instance, attaching a piece of string to the door handle might be a source of entertainment for your cat.
Let her out
Although this would be a new environment, letting your cat out is one of the ways to make her happy. Similar to their feline counterparts, cats are wired to hunt and kill. Being in a new environment might be the best place to carry out this act.
Keep in mind that cats hunt for fun!
Create a surface for your cat to scratch on
Another feline behavior that cats love to elicit is scratching. As a way of caring for their claws, scratching could be included as an activity that keeps your cats happy. Upon getting to your holiday site, if possible provide a place where your cats can scratch.
Reading Suggestion: Boy Cat Names – Find the Perfect Male Kitten Name
Visit the vet
This should probably be one of the first things you should do while preparing to travel with your cat. However, it goes without saying that a healthy cat is a happy cat.
While going on a trip might make your cat a bit anxious, a visit to the veterinarian eliminates the possibility of your pet falling sick while on the trip.
In conclusion,
While you make efforts to make your cat explore the outside world with you, don’t barge into its private time. Also, learn to watch out for signs when petting it so as to avoid scratches.