More and more, cat owners are embracing an adventurous life with their cats. Whether hiking, camping, jogging, or simply road tripping, take time to plan and prepare what you’ll need for a safe, comfortable experience in the outside world for both you and your cat. Cat ID — Cats are notorious escape artists! The first rule of traveling with cats is to have some means of identification attached to your pet. Harnesses are usually your better choice for ID tags, as cats have a knack for slipping collars. You might want to also consider having the vet microchip your cat. Cat Carrier — Even on a short drive to, say, your favorite hiking trail, it’s imperative to secure your cat in a travel carrier. A roaming cat can distract the driver, causing an accident that can harm both driver and pet. Accustoming your cat to the carrier a little at a time will vastly improve car trips for both of you. Road Tripping — Pets as well as humans can suffer from motion sickness. Acclimate your cat to travel by taking him on short trips before attempting that cross country adventure. Provide your cat with food and water before a long trip, but be sure to remove both three hours before you begin driving. If your cat has difficulty overcoming motion sickness, your vet can prescribe anti-motion sickness medication. Always bring a roll of paper towels just in case! When making a packing list for a longer trip, be sure to include a portable litter box and litter, disposable poop bags in case of mistakes, food, food and water bowls, cat harness, and TWO LEASHES. Definitely two leashes! If you misplace one, you may need a quick backup. Remember to plan ahead and make reservations at a pet-friendly hotel or motel. Not all establishments will be happy to welcome your furry friend! MOST IMPORTANTLY, never leave your cat alone in the car to avoid heat stroke. Heat builds up in parked cars unbelievably quickly. Cats, even more so than dogs, are sensitive to heat. Backpack and/or Pet Stroller — You’ve reached your destination, and are ready to adventure with your cat! Should you explore that nature trail, go for a quick jog, or stroll through that picturesque village? A BACKPACK can be a great choice for hiking steep terrain or for shorter walks, but they can also limit you in many ways. Some cats hate being confined in such a small space, large cats may not fit at all, and, no matter how comfortable the backpack is, you can tire quickly carrying that 12 lb. cat on your back! A PET STROLLER (www.petroverusa.com) gives you some great options for including your cat in a variety of activities. —Pushing a stroller means no strain on your body. This is especially important if you have shoulder, back, or arm injuries. —A pet stroller provides maximum space and comfort for your cat to safely enjoy the outdoors. —Three-wheel cat strollers are designed for rugged terrain. Very easy to maneuver, they’re ideal for walking and hiking trails as well as city sidewalks. —Take your cat for a jog in his pet stroller. —Four-wheel stroller are perfect for walking streets and sidewalks. —A stroller will leave your hands free for shopping or carrying other travel bags. —Take ‘em both! You can easily fit two cats in one stroller. Now that your plan is set and your equipment is organized, pack up your feline buddy and seize that adventure!
