Tips for Travelling With a Cat | Hill's Pet
Most cats are not particularly happy travelers - they are usually bonded strongly to their own territory and feel very vulnerable off home ground. The rewards of staying with the family 'pack' or the potential of exploring or walking somewhere new at the end of the journey do not excite the average feline in the same way as its canine cousins.
It can be very dangerous to have a cat loose in the car - not only could it cause an accident by becoming entangled with the driver, but if a window or door was opened or an accident occurred, the cat could escape and become lost.
You will need to invest in a carrier that is strong and easy to clean should the cat urinate, defecate or become sick during the journey. Also consider the weather you will be traveling in - both your present situation and the likely temperature of your destination. If it is likely to be very hot then use a carrier which allows good air flow - if it is going to be cold then one which can provide draft-free warmth while still allowing a good air flow would be useful. Place the carrier where it will be secure if you have to brake suddenly but where it has a good air flow - i.e. not underneath lots of other luggage in the back of the car. Do not put the cat in the trunk and take care with the rear of hatchbacks - ventilation may be poor and the cat may overheat. You can secure the carrier behind one of the front seats or use the seat belt to make sure it is held securely on the seat.
What's all that noise about?
The cat may meow initially or even throughout the whole journey - speak calmly and reassuringly to it but resist letting it out of its carrier. The noise will probably drive you mad but the cat is unlikely to be suffering; just voicing its dislike of the situation! Eventually the constant motion and noise of the car will probably induce it to sleep or at least to settle down. Check the cat regularly, especially if the weather is hot - don't underestimate how rapidly the temperature inside a car can rise - bear this in mind if you stop for a refreshment break and leave the cat in the car. Put the car in the shade and leave windows open - if it is very hot take a picnic and eat it nearby with the cat secure in its carrier outside the car or with all the doors open. Heat-stroke can be a killer.
Make it a pleasant place to be - feed the cat treats inside it and make a cozy bed of familiar smelling bedding which can be used on the journey. Leave the door open and encourage the cat to go in and out and to sleep in it. Then, when it comes to the actual journey, the cat is at least familiar with its immediate environment.