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Nathalie Sari - Tiertraining & Verhaltensberatung

This article was written by TOBALIE in cooperation with Nathalie Sari - Tiertraining & Verhaltensberatung

One of the most beautiful times of the year is undoubtedly the holiday season. As the owner of a cat, however, it is not always easy to plan a holiday, because you are automatically confronted with the question of who cares for your beloved friend during this time. Or think about a vacation with cat.

Well, how about you just take your cat with you on your travels? It is unusual but not impossible, but you should consider if you can expect your cat to do this, because not all cats can handle a change of place well. For most, it’s a lot of stress, especially when they’re not used to it. It is always better to find a cat sitter who comes into your home, but if you decide to take your kitten with you on holiday, TOBALIE will give you the most important information. How to prepare your holiday with cat and what you should pay attention to so that your cat also feels comfortable on holiday.

Preparations for your Vacation with cat

Whether by car, plane or public transport, there are a few important things to consider before travelling with a cat. Apart from the fact that your cat should be in best health (physically as well as mentally) condition and this should be confirmed beforehand by a veterinarian, the following points must be considered:

  • When travelling abroad, you should definitely check the respective entry requirements Information this should be obtained from the foreign offices. For example, your cat must have an identification number (microchip). A rabies vaccination or possible further treatments (e.g. deworming) may also be mandatory. Attention: A pure vaccination passport is not sufficient in most cases, get an EU passport (health certificate, identification number) issued by a veterinarian. You should do this 3, better 4 months in advance. Because some countries want a rabies titer determination, for which blood must be taken and if necessary re-vaccinated. This is valid for a lifetime, as long as you always vaccinate in time. Think of the return journey, too! If you are not travelling to EU countries, the re-entry regulations should also be checked. 
  • Inform yourself, in advance with your veterinarian, about typical national diseases and take possible prophylactic measures (e.g. vaccinations).  
  • Think about possible health problems and put together a travel pharmacy for your pet. The respective climate should also be taken into account.  
  • Your cat also has personal belongings she doesn’t want to miss on holiday, such as her favourite toys. 

These things should not be missing on journeys either

Checklist Vacation with cat

  • It is advisable to provide your cat with a holiday address- and telephone number, preferably with a collar. (Attention: danger of injury due to getting caught by free movers)
  • Think about a possible insurance cover for your cat.  
  • Is the cat allowed and registered in the holiday accommodation?  How does it look with freewheel?
  • Is the weather at the holiday resort reasonable for my cat? What arrangements do I have to make for her to come to an arrangement?  
  • In case of an emergency, find a vet nearby. 
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Road Trip

The motto for holiday trips with cats is: Safety first! Separation grids or a transport box are not only mandatory in most cases these precautionary measures also protect humans and animals. TÜV-tested transport boxes are the safest. If your kitten is not used to long car rides, then train her beforehand by combining the car ride for her always with positives and always plan the rides a bit longer. A good preparation is essential for the well-being of your beloved cat.  

The motto for holiday trips with cats is: Safety first! Separation grids or a transport box are not only mandatory in most cases these precautionary measures also protect humans and animals. TÜV-tested transport boxes are the safest. If your kitten is not used to long car rides, then train her beforehand by combining the car ride for her always with positives and always plan the rides a bit longer. A good preparation is essential for the well-being of your beloved cat.  

Also note the following: 

  • Avoid large meals before departure, preferably the last 4 hours before departure. 
  • Regular drinking breaks
  • Ensure a comfortable temperature in the car and avoid draughts.
  • The cat should always be kept safely in the back of the car. 
  • Put sun protection on windows and never leave your cat alone in the car for long, the danger of a heat stroke in summer is too great.

Air travel with cat

In general, it ist better not to take your cat on board, as it is an enormous burden for her. If you have the possibility of accommodation in your hometown, then use it. In some cases, it cannot be avoided but then you should pay attention to a few important things so as not to jeopardize the well-being of your pet.  

  • If your cat is not used to a transport box, confront it months before. Get her used to it slowly. Do not simply lock up, here the requirement of positive conditioning applies! 
  • Find out in advance whether the airline you fly with transports animals at all and under what conditions (fees, cabin vs. cargo space, dimensions and condition of the transport box, etc.). 
  • Even if you think you are doing something good for your cat, do not give her medication to calm her down. Veterinarians warn of possible dangers! If necessary, natural remedies (e.g. Bach flowers, Feliway) can also work well.   
  • Before the check-in your cat should in any case still be physically and mentally busy and she should get something to drink. In general, licking and chewing has a positive effect on the pressure balance and contributes to calming. 
  • On the day of the flight your cat should be left sober.  

Public transportation

  • Cats are allowed by train but may have to pay extra!
  • By bus it is necessary to inquire with the respective bus line.
  • Transport boxing is mandatory everywhere! 

Arrival at the holiday resort

Your cat has bravely mastered the journey! Now the following things are on the agenda: 

  • Cuddle and game time is now on the program.  
  • In the hotel room, clear away anything that could destroy your cat and give her her usual toy.
  • Make yourselvescomfortable and let them explore the surroundings.
  • Giver her Food and Water 
  • Resting, long journeys are enormously strenuous.
Urlaub mit Katze

Summary

A cat on a journey, unusual but sometimes unavoidable. Before starting your holiday, however, you should make some preparations and gather some information so that the holiday with a cat can also be a carefree fun for people and animals. First and foremost, the health and safety of your pet as well as your obligation to take care of it and keep it there is nothing to stop you from enjoying a relaxing and exciting holiday with your darling. TOBALIE wishes you lots of fun!