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 .