PUBLICATION MAGAZINE VOLUME ONE magz onl | Page 30

28 HEALTH & TIPS

TIPS TO TRAVEL WITH YOUR PALS

1. START WITH SHORT TRIP

This will get your cat used to all the new sensations of riding in the car. You’ ll also find out how he / she handles travel and whether car sickness will be an issue. Some cats even get hyperactive( they’ ll be all over the place), which can make it difficult and dangerous for you

2. PLAN PIT STOPS

Give your cat a break every 2-3 hours. It’ s also a good time to let them use the litter without the car moving around.

3. REWARD THEM

Have treats handy so you can let them know they are doing a good job. Just like any behavior, giving them treats helps reinforce positive behavior. You may not think it’ s possible to train a cat, but ours can sit, shake, and we’ re in the process of leash training them.

4. TALK TO YOUR VET

Depending on how your cat handles being on the road, your vet may be able to help. Some may suggest you sedate them or give them medication for motion sickness. There are also pheromone sprays to help calm your cat in stressful situations.

5. FEED YOU PALS EARLY

Give your cat 3-4 hours to let their food settle before hitting the road. Otherwise, you may get a present during your drive.

6. START WITH A CRATE

Cats typically feel more comfortable in a space they are familiar with. There are people who believe that the cats should always be in a crate in a car for their safety. Ours tend to act more like dogs and like to roam a little with wind on their faces. For our very first car ride, though, I let them sit on my lap.

7. PET FRIENDLY HOTEL

If you or your pets need a break from the road, look for pet friendly hotels. There are more of them out there than you think! Make sure you call and ask if they allow both dogs and cats

8. PUPPY PADS

These are great for any accidents they might have in the car. If it’ s been a while, we sometimes forget certain minute behaviors they exhibit when they need something. We’ ve had a few times where they got sick and got diarrhea or threw up all over the car. Now we always keep some puppy pads handy. We’ ll place them under their sitting areas and also stash several of them near the front so we can grab them when they get sick.

9. KEEEP THEM HYDRATED

Make sure you have water for your cat along the way. We like to use this collapsible camping cup for their water, both in the car and in the trailer since it packs away nicely.

10. PACK EXTRA SUPPLIES

You never know where you’ ll be and you don’ t want to be stuck somewhere without supplies you need for your cat. Also, pack extra portions for any special food or medicines your cat will need.