Storing Successfully For Years

If you are preparing to move to a home in another state, you may have concerns about how to make the trip safer and more comfortable for your cat. If so, use the following three tips for transporting your feline friend during a long-distance move.

Select the Right Sized Carrier

The first thing you should do is select a carrier for your cat. The carrier should have plenty of room inside so that your kitty can easily turn and move around inside.

You may also want to have one that is a few inches wider or longer so you can put a few items inside to make your cat feel more at home. These items could include a favorite blanket, toy, or a small dish of water that attaches securely to the side of the carrier.

If you already have a carrier, take it out and look at it a few days before moving day to make sure it is the right size for your cat. If you bought it while they were still a kitten, it may be too small for your grown-up pet and will need to be replaced before you move.

Feed Your Cat a Few Hours Before Traveling 

On the day that you move, feed your cat a few hours before you load them into the car and head out. Especially if your cat is not used to traveling in a vehicle, they become carsick. Feeding them too close to moving time could result in a large mess if they were to throw up along the way.

While on the road to your new house, offer your cat water during the day while you are driving. However, do not be concerned if your furry friend refuses. Their stomach may be upset and cannot handle anything on it.

Secure the Carrier in the Back Seat of Your Vehicle

When you load the carrier into the back seat of your vehicle, make sure you tightly secure it. Doing this not only ensures that the carrier does not shift and move while you are driving, but it also keeps your cat safe in case you have to slam on your brakes or are in a minor accident.

You can secure the carrier in one of two ways. You can either wrap and secure the seat belt around it, or wedge the carrier on the floor between the front and back seats.

Using the above tips while transporting your cat to your new home can help them stay safe and more comfortable during the journey. If you have any questions or concerns about how to prepare your cat for travel and help them acclimate to the new house, ask your moving company for additional tips and advice.