As a professional pet transporter, I understand that moving with your cat can feel overwhelming. You may not have any idea where to start the process of getting your cats from one state to another during your move. Cats are sensitive creatures who thrive on routine, and any disruption—like a car journey or a flight—might be stressful for them. You are really tempted to drive them yourself so you don’t have to be separated for several days. But you have never driven that far across the country and would much rather fly. You know you could take the cats with you on the plane but you are already a nervous flyer and having your anxious kitty with you probably won’t be comfortable for either of you.
That’s where I come in! My role is to minimize that stress, ensuring your feline companion travels comfortably and safely, whether by car or airplane, and that none of the tension rests on your shoulders alone. Here’s an insider look at what I can do to make this happen.
Preparing For Your Cat Transportation Service
Preparation is key to a successful trip. In collaboration with you, we start well before the travel date to ensure your cat is ready for the journey.
1. Getting Accustomed to the Cat Carrier: We know that the carrier can be a source of anxiety for many cats, which is why introducing the cat carrier in advance can be a huge help. In the weeks leading up to the move, you can place the carrier in your home, where your cat can explore it at their own pace. It is helpful to line the carrier with a familiar blanket or place favorite toys inside to make it more inviting. Reward them for their time inside the carrier with their favorite treats. This step is crucial in helping your cat feel more at ease on the day of travel. Don’t have a pet carrier at home? We can help you purchase one that meets the requirements for ground transport or for in-cabin air travel. This can be sent to your home in advance so you have time to practice.
2. Litter Box Training: This is one of the most common questions we get! Where does my cat go to the bathroom while traveling? For car trips, we can put a small disposable litter box inside of the carrier so they always have access. Is your cat picky about his litter? You can supply a small bag with the litter he likes and we can make sure he has access to this during the trip. For flights we can offer use of popup travel litter box during our layover or directly before our flight. We simply hop into a private family restroom so he can take a break from his carrier to do his business. Some cats are trained to use potty pads or to even pee on command! You can help us tremendously by getting him litter box trained at home and then we can find a way to carry out his routine on the road. Even special needs or elderly cats have options.
3. Leash Training: For added security, especially during stops or airport security screening, training your cat to wear a harness and leash gives us greater control. While this step is not necessary it can certainly allow us to manage your cat more safely while giving them a sense of freedom.
Cat Transport by Ground: Keeping Your Cat Comfortable on the Road
When it comes to car travel, we take every precaution to ensure your cat’s journey is as smooth as possible.
1. Selecting the Right Pet Carrier: The carrier is one of the most important aspects of car transport with cats. We choose carriers that are hard-sided, spacious enough for your cat to stand, turn around, and lie down AND enough space for a litter box. Food and water dishes can be attached to the front door so they have constant access to nourishment.
2. Securing the Carrier to the Vehicle: Safety is our top priority. The crates are anchored down to the vehicle so they don’t shift or tip over while on the road. We position them so we can easily see them and assess their needs. Some cats prefer privacy and will relax better if we put a small blanket over the door. This stability helps your cat feel more secure and prevents any unnecessary jolts that could happen while on the drive. Cats are sneaky! For their safety, they generally are not removed from their carriers until they arrive home.
3. Attending to Basic Needs: We find most cats don’t eat while the car is moving so we make sure to schedule generous breaks throughout the day to give them a chance to eat and drink and use the litter box. However, we are careful not to overfeed your cat before the journey to avoid motion sickness. We also carry familiar items, like your cat’s favorite blanket or toy, to provide comfort during the trip.
Airplane Travel: Flight Nanny for Cats
Flying with a cat involves additional considerations, but with our expertise and experience we ensure a safe and comfortable journey from check-in to landing.
1. Choosing the Right Airline and Carrier: Not all airlines have the same policies regarding pet travel. We take care of researching and selecting an airline that allows cats in the cabin and meets all the necessary requirements. Some families have multiple critters, so finding an airlines that will allow us to take all of the furry family on board takes some expert knowledge. We opt for TSA approved soft-sided pet carriers that fit under the seat and provide a comfortable space for your cat during the flight. We have flown with eight week old kittens as well as large 23lb maine coon cats. No matter the age or size we can find them a safe flight option home to you.
2. Managing Airport Security: Airport security can be a stressful time for both pets and their owners. We handle this process by requesting a private screening room whenever possible and use a secure harness and leash to manage your cat outside the carrier. This minimizes stress and ensures your cat remains safe throughout the process. No chance for escapees while in our care!
3. Onboard Pet Care: During the flight, we monitor your cat closely for any signs of discomfort or anxiety. We provide small amounts of water as needed and ensure the carrier remains well-ventilated and securely positioned under the seat. Cats do need remain inside of their carrier but we have easy access if any issues come up. Most cats will settle down and fall asleep once the flight has taken off.
Additional Considerations for Cat Transport
Beyond the basics of car and flight nanny travel, there are several other factors we consider to ensure your cat’s journey is as stress-free as possible.
-Health Certificate: We recommend a visit with your veterinarian before travel. This ensures your cat is healthy and fit to travel and that they are up to date on any state required vaccinations. If necessary, we can administer any prescribed medications or supplements to manage anxiety during the trip. Should I medicate my cat before travel? Many cats we travel with are given a small dose of gabapentin for anxiety. We are happy to administer this with vet prescription and approval. Work with your vet to see what is the best option for you specific pets.
- Packing Essentials: We pack several essentials for your cat’s journey, including familiar items like their favorite blanket, toys, and food. We also bring cleaning supplies like potty pads and wet wipes in case of any accidents during the trip. For cats, I love to have churros on hand to reward them with a tasty treat or to give them a snack on our layover. I also include Feliway pheromone spray in my bag so I can spray the pet carrier for an anti-anxiety boost. We can bring along any of his favorite comfort items or even check a bag of his specialty food to your destination.
- Post-Travel Care: Upon arrival at your destination, we recommend setting up a quiet space for them to explore at their own pace and provide comfort as they adjust to their new surroundings. It is completely normal for them to hide for a few hours until they feel safe with their new home.
Why Choose Professional Cat Transport Services?
As professionals in the pet transportation industry, we bring years of experience and a deep understanding of feline behavior to every journey. Our goal is to minimize the stress of moving with cats, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your new adventure. Whether it’s a cross-country move or an international flight, we’re here to ensure your cat travels safely and comfortably every step of the way. We listen to your specific preferences and the needs of your pets and create a customized solution designed exclusively for you.
With our services, you can rest assured that your cat is in good hands, receiving the care and attention they need to arrive at your new home healthy, happy, and ready to settle in. If you’re planning a move or need to travel with your cat, let us handle the details—so you can focus on what matters most. Reach out to PurplePup today about your cat transportation needs.
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