Moving over a long distance can be stressful not only for you, but also your feline friends. Long distance moving with your cat can be a challenge, but the following advice will help you to know how to move cats long distance.
Test Drive Before the Big Move
If you have ever driven your cat to the vet, you probably know how they react to a car ride. Make sure you familiarize yourself with your cat’s car ride behavior before the long trip. They will probably react the same to a long car ride as they do to a short one.
Use a Pet Carrier or Crate
It may be tempting to let your cat roam free during the trip, but its best to use a pet carrier or collapsible crate. Just like humans needs seatbelts to keep them safe and secure in a car, your pet needs to be secured inside a carrier. (There are no laws regarding this, but it is just a safer choice). Larger crates can accommodate more than one cat. Throw in a comfy blanket to encourage them to take a nap. It’s also more comforting if your cat can see you, so keep the crate close by.
Prevent Kitty Carsickness
Nobody wants to deal with a carsick cat, especially during a long ride. To prevent a sick kitty, it’s best to let your cat travel on an empty stomach. Feed your cat less than normal if food is necessary. Otherwise, carsickness may be imminent.
To Sedate or Not to Sedate?
You may want to sedate your cat before the long car ride. This decision depends on how your cat reacts to car rides. If your cat is easily stressed by travel, you may want to use sedation. If your cat tends to curl up and fall asleep during car rides, sedation may not be necessary. Consult your veterinarian for suggestions.
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