The summer holidays are approaching and consequently a question is nagging at cat owners: can you go on holiday with your cat or should you leave it at home?
We'll see that there's no universal answer to this question. It all depends on your cat, you, and the type of vacation you're planning.
Going on holiday with my cat: a good idea?
A cat isn't a dog, and for many of them, a change of environment can be very unsettling. However, in some cases, going on vacation with your cat can be a good idea. Indeed, some cats are very attached to their owners and need to be near them. In this case, it's best to take them with you if possible. If you plan to take your cat everywhere with you, it's best to get them used to it from a young age.
Make sure your holiday accommodation is suitable and that pets are allowed.
Also consider the length of the journey when making your choice. Cats generally don't enjoy car rides, and some will meow throughout the entire trip. This can be very annoying, especially for the driver. So, it's something to keep in mind.
When you arrive at your holiday destination, lay out all your cat's belongings: bed, litter box, food and water bowls, etc. Then, place its carrier in the smallest room possible, with the door closed. Avoid leaving it in the bathroom, which is generally not its favorite room!
You will only allow him access to this room for 2/3 days, then you can let him move around the whole apartment or house.
Tips for going on holiday with your cat
To go on vacation with your cat, you'll need a carrier. And of course, he won't go into his carrier on his own; you'll have to get him used to it gradually. To do this, leave the carrier in the house with the door open. Your cat, being naturally curious, will be interested. It's very likely he'll settle in on his own when he wants some peace and quiet.
For the journey, improve the comfort of the cage by placing a mat, a blanket and some toys inside.
During the journey, if you're traveling by car, remember to take regular breaks. Make sure the car doesn't get too hot inside. To soothe your cat, you can cover the carrier with a cloth to create a dim atmosphere. Keep in mind that this doesn't calm all cats; you'll need to see what your feline friend prefers.
Is your cat stressed?
Holidays are a stressful time for a cat, whether it stays home or not. To help your cat manage its stress, you'll find various natural solutions on bfpetfood.shop:
Biofood-BF Petfood Relax tablets are formulated with natural ingredients and contain valerian and passionflower, two plants known in herbal medicine for their anti-stress and soothing properties.
In addition, Relax Biofood-BF Petfood tablets are very tasty, you will have no trouble getting your cat to swallow them!
Matatabi Bella Bestia is a plant with relaxing and euphoric properties. It is more potent than catnip, and its effects are felt by almost all felines. Treat your cat to a moment of relaxation!
If you leave without your cat
Let's be honest, in most cases, cats stay home while their owners go on vacation. Taking your cat everywhere is simply complicated. Furthermore, a change of environment is a source of stress for many felines.
If this is the option you've chosen, be aware that your cat cannot be left alone for more than two days, even if it has everything it needs at home. Therefore, you'll need to arrange for a trusted person to check on it at least every two days, preferably at set times. The person visiting your cat shouldn't just ensure it has enough food and water. They should also play with it and give it cuddles (if the cat is okay with it, of course!).
If you can't find anyone in your circle who could visit your cat while you're away, you can turn to a professional, that is, a
"catsitter".
You can also find cat boarding facilities or hotels. In a boarding facility, cats live in groups, which can be difficult for a cat that isn't used to this. It can be helpful to offer your cat an anti-stress medication before and/or during their stay.
In hotels, cats have their own individual "rooms," so it's a kind of luxury boarding service, and the rates will obviously be higher. Your cat will be less stressed, but it still represents a disruption to its routine, and we know that cats don't particularly like that.
The best solution, when possible, is for your cat to stay home to avoid stressing it.
Now you can decide whether you will take your cat with you on vacation or not.
Whatever your choice, follow our advice to ensure your cat also has a great holiday!
