Worried cat owners are among Pet Van Lines’s most typical clients. When they’re moving cross-country with their cats, they are understandably concerned about their feline family members’ stress levels. Moving thousands of miles away from everything familiar can exhaust humans. The cats would experience even heavier anxiety levels as they won’t understand why this is happening. 

Here are nine things you can do to make your cat’s cross-country move go more smoothly.:

• Prepare in advance
• Decide which is better: driving or flying?
• Look for pet-friendly hotels
• Consult with your vet and look for a new one
• Microchip your cat
• Get a comfortable carrier
• Go on test drives
• Have your cat’s essentials on hand
• Remain calm

The Goal: Reduce Stress as Much as Possible

As pet owners, your goal is to reduce the stress on your cat during this move. In doing so, you’re also reducing your stress as you won’t have to worry about your cat’s well-being during the process. 

Your cat will also acclimate better to the new location if the journey doesn’t take a toll on them. If you handle the move with plenty of preparation, they won’t be as worried about what’s going on.

Tips for a Stress-Free Cross-Country Move

Driving or flying?

Determine ahead of time whether you will reach your destination over land or air. If you’ve already had experience traveling with your cat, consider how they behaved during a plane ride instead of traveling by car.

A car ride may take longer, but it’s an enclosed space that doesn’t have to be shared with unfamiliar people. It’s also quieter. Plane rides make moving much quicker, but that means getting stuck in a tube with loud noises and strange turbulence, surrounded by strangers. That may be worse for your cat.

Look for pet-friendly hotels

If you’re expecting several days of travel over land  to reach your destination, you have to look for and book pet-friendly hotels ahead of time. You need to avoid stopping at a hotel only to find out that they don’t admit animals. The bustle and confusion can create more stress for everybody, especially your cat.

Consult with your current vet and look for a new one

Make an appointment with your vet before moving cross-country with your pet. Your vet can provide your cat’s exam results, vaccination records, and other essential paperwork. Keep your pet’s latest records on-hand when you make your move and it’ll make the transition easier for your pet’s new veterinarian.

Long before you make the big move, look for the nearest reputable veterinarian in your new area. It’s for your pet’s benefit because you won’t be scrambling to look for one in case of emergencies later on. Make a first appointment as soon as you can when you reach your new home. This ensures that the vet and your cat start acclimating to one another as well.

Microchip your cat

Microchipping your pet is a great practice, but when preparing for travel, it’s one of the most crucial steps. Traveling across the country means moving to new environments and moving veterinary practices. With a microchip, your contact number, new address, and the pet’s medical documents can be matched back to your cat. In the event your cat gets lost, there is a way to link them back to you with a single scan.

Get a suitable, comfortable carrier

Your cat’s comfort is an essential aspect of the preparation. Find a suitable cat carrier months ahead of your travel date. Ensure that your cat acclimates to it. Use it for your cat for the next few months, so they get used to being in it. They will be at ease when the travel date arrives.

Go on test drives

If you’ll be traveling by land and in a car, go on long practice drives with your cat in the carrier. It gets them more accustomed to long journeys in a vehicle. They won’t be as spooked or worried during moving day if they’re used to making long journeys with you.

Have a cat-ready bag

In the same way that parents always have a baby bag with them, you need to prepare a cat-ready bag for your travel date. Put in toys, snacks, travel dishes for food and water, extra pet diapers or pet wraps, and whatever else your cat may need during the journey. You’ll also want your pet’s paperwork and other permits in the bag’s pockets so you can readily present them should you need to.

Remain calm

Remember that your pet will take cues from you. An owner’s stress can directly affect their pet. Cats are frequently attuned to their owner’s emotions. If you remain calm during the moving process, they will feel more reassured that what’s going on is not something to worry about.

Be understanding and prioritize your cat’s comfort

Remember that this is a new chapter for both of you. Just like you, your cat will also have to acclimate to a new home, and a new environment. It’s strange and disorienting, and they will rely on you to ease the process.

Make sure that their journey to their new home is a comfortable one. Pet Van Lines provides comfortable and safe pet transportation from coast to coast. We have years of experience in relocating your beloved pets to their new homes. 

Contact us today for a free quote, and let us handle your pet’s travel arrangements so they can come home in style. Or you can browse our pet transportation services to learn more about how we care for your pet during the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does moving traumatize cats?

Moves may be more stressful to cats than humans because they are susceptible to the sudden environment and routine changes. A cat can get traumatized due to moving, but this is precisely what these reminders and careful preparations are designed to avoid. It’s entirely possible to go on a comfortable, easy cross-country move with minimal stress to your cat. 

2. Can you ship cats across the country?

Yes, we can. Pet Van Lines can transport your cat through climate-controlled vehicles with plenty of space, limited noise, and regular attention to your cat’s comfort and behavior.

Furthermore, we implement numerous safety measures to ensure that your cat is transported safely across the country at minimal stress and discomfort to your pet. Learn the details of our cat transportation service here.

3. How long does it take a cat to adjust to a new home?

Happy, healthy cats who have had comfortable journeys should take roughly one to two weeks to adjust to their new environment. Sensitive cats who may be overcoming trauma may take longer. 

Regardless, owners must pay close attention to their cat and its needs during this transition period. It would be best to allow them to get accustomed to the new environments, routines, and activities they should expect in this new home.

4. How can I calm my stressed cat after moving?

Introduce your cat to one room first. If your cat has favorite toys and bedding, keep it all in one place at a time. The smell of these items will help the cat acclimate more easily. Make sure the litterbox, food, and water are easily accessible to them. Once the world around them has calmed down after the move, you can start letting your cat explore their new world.

To help soothe your cat, feline pheromones or things like catnip can help make things easier for them. Consult with a veterinarian about the use of these items so you can administer them safely to your cat after the move.

The post Moving Cross-Country With Your Cats the Stress-Free Way appeared first on Pet Van Lines.

Road tripping can be a great bonding experience for you and your cat. So, before you go on a road trip, think about your cat’s behavior. It is preferable to keep them as relaxed as possible when traveling.

Pet Van Lines has put up a list of suggestions to help you and your cat have the greatest, safest, and most enjoyable long-distance transport possible.

How to Get Ready for a Road Trip with Your Cat

1. Get the right carrier
2. Prepare your cat for the drive
3. Bring cat toys
4. Plan pit stops
5. Things to pack

Getting the right carrier

Your cat should not be allowed to roam freely in your car when you’re on the road. They could get under your feet and affect your driving. If you don’t keep your cat in a carrier, your cat could be seriously injured in case of an accident.

Get your cat a good carrier that will create a safe, peaceful environment for them and will help relieve at least some of their anxiety.

The cat carrier should be wrapped or covered with a disposable liner or old towels that can be tossed away or washed. This will make a bathroom problem much more manageable and quicker to clean up while you’re on the road.

Spend some time training your cat to enjoy their carrier before the travel day approaches to make restraint stress-free for both you and your cat.

Preparing them for a car drive

Start by bringing your cat out to the car before you leave. Sit in the back seat with your cat and offer them a few goodies before petting and brushing them.

Allow your cat to explore and roam the entire car until they’re comfortable. Then, place them in their carrier and allow them to get used to it.

Turn on some relaxing music. Take a couple of short drives around the block, slow and steady, so your cat gets used to the movement and you can observe how they’ll react to being in the car.

Bring cat toys

When traveling, it’s a good idea to bring their old toys or, if possible, some new and exciting toys for your cat to play with. This will keep them occupied and delighted.

You can swap them out so that they have something new to play with all the time. The more entertained your cat is during the car ride, the more they’ll appreciate the road trip.

Plan pit stops

Make pit stops along the way to give your cat food, water, and a chance to use the litter box every two to three hours or so.

Your cat can even stretch their legs outside if you have a kitty harness and leash. If you’ve never used a cat collar or leash before, make sure you test it out at home to ensure your cat can’t escape.

Pre-Book Cat-Friendly Accommodations

When traveling with cats in a car over long distances, overnight stops will be necessary for you both to get some rest. Planning these accommodations ahead of time is essential for a successful road trip.

Car, tent, or trailer camping can offer lower costs and more flexibility with where you can stay. Most campgrounds or parks allow pets, although be aware of potential pet fees. 

You can also look for pet-friendly hotels or vacation properties along your route. Inquire about pet fees and policies, as some locations may not allow you to leave your cat in the room alone.

Before you book, consider if you want to do any activities that your cat cannot do, such as grocery shopping or going out for dinner. If you need to leave your cat, a trailer or hotel room would be your best option. 

Avoid Leaving Your Cat in The Car

While leaving any pet or person in a car is not advisable, cats are especially vulnerable to overheating and stress. 

Cats do not have sweat glands like us, so you should not leave them in a car if it is 70 degrees or more outside, even with the windows down. 

In cooler temperatures, like a summer evening, you could leave your cat in its carrier with the windows cracked for a short time. However, it is still a risk, and it would be best to find a pet sitter or kitty daycare in advance if you know you will need to leave your cat unattended.

Things to Pack

Make sure to bring a litter box with litter your cat is already used to, a scoop, small garbage bags, and gloves for cleaning. You can also prepare for accidents by packing wet wipes, rags, cleaning supplies, pee pads, and odor-neutralizing solutions.

Your cat’s regular food and water bowls can help them be more comfortable. You should also have harnesses, leashes, nail clippers, medications, vaccination records, and identification tags.

To ease your cat’s stress, remember to pack their favorite toys, blankets, treats, and some catnip. If you have a more anxious cat, consider swaddling products or pheromone wipes and collars to help them.

Moving Long Distance With a Cat

When driving with a cat for longer periods, avoid feeding them right before you head out to prevent nausea and vomiting. You can stop to feed them small amounts of food or treats throughout the trip.

Some cats feel motion sickness on bumpy or winding roads. Elevating their carrier or bed to window height can help. 

If you notice beforehand that your cat feels especially nervous or unwell in the car, speak with your veterinarian about sedatives or tips specific to your feline friend. 

Moving with multiple pets that do not get along can be very stressful, so try to keep as much distance between them as possible. Additionally, make sure your cat is secured before opening any doors.

Having a carrier your cat is comfortable in is vitally important, especially when moving a long distance. Packing and preparing for accidents is also essential due to cats’ habit of marking their territory if they feel nervous.

How to Help Your Cat Adjust to a New Home?

By the time you arrive at your new home, your cat should see their carrier as a safe space. Use this to your advantage while they adjust by leaving it out for them to retreat. Feel free to feed them or let them sleep in their carrier in the beginning.

Expose your cat to the new space slowly, starting with a small, closed room. Do not force them to leave their carrier before they’re ready. Once they feel comfortable, they will explore the space and slowly build their confidence.

When you notice your cat wanders the room freely, you can begin to introduce them to the rest of the home in stages. Make sure to leave the doors of their first room and carrier open, allowing them to retreat if they wish

Cat Transport FAQs

1. Is it OK to travel long distances with your cat?

With proper planning and preparation, cats can be excellent travel companions. Getting them accustomed to traveling requires patience, but it will be a positive experience for them in the right conditions.

2.  How do cats go to the bathroom on road trips?

Cats will use their litter box even in a car! Bringing the same litter you use at home will help them feel comfortable doing their business on the road.

3. Is it stressful to travel with a cat?

Preparing your cat for the journey ahead of time can alleviate stress for you and your feline friend. It also helps to pack anything you may need for accidents and emergencies.

Trustworthy Long-Distance Pet Transport Company

Taking the advice above will guarantee that you and your cat have a safe and enjoyable trip.

If you’re looking for ways to transport your cat safely, Pet Van Lines is happy to assist you. Let our team transport your beloved cat in a stress-free ride, with the assistance of a caring professional and a spacious SUV or minivan.

Fill out our online form or call us at (832) 729-7192 to schedule a transfer or learn more about the places we service.

The post Traveling With Cats: Helpful Tips For A Safe and Smooth Trip appeared first on Pet Van Lines.

1. Consider Reasons for Cat Transport

Most cats don’t travel well. A change in routine and an adventurous long-distance road trip can stress out your cat. And it might take a while for it to befriend you again.

Although air transportation might be an option, restrictions vary with airlines. And if you’re not traveling with your cat, an air cargo experience can traumatize your furry friend. Cat transportation offers a solution for a variety of life’s changes:

• Relocation – If you’re relocating several states away, or if you want to get organized before you welcome your cat to your new home, cat transport will accommodate you.
• Extended vacation – Are you flying to your vacation spot, but your cat hates takeoffs, landings, and being stuck in a carrier under the seat in front of you? You both can relax. Enjoy your flight to your vacation home and arrange ground transportation for your cat.
• Long-term assignment – A long-term work assignment that’s hundreds of miles away can add adventure to your summer. After you’re comfortable with your accommodations and know it’s safe for your pet, door-to-door cat transportation will make the transition smooth.
• Pet purchase or adoption – You’ve found the perfect cat, but you’re on the east coast, and your newfound pet is in the Midwest. No problem. Cat transport will pick up your precious cargo from the breeder and deliver it to you. And if you’re adopting a rescue pet—or inheriting a cat from a family member—long-distance transportation for pets saves you the drive and the travel time. Visit the American Veterinary Medical Association website for more tips on how to plan for successful pet adoption.

2. Prepare for Cat Shipping

How do you prepare your cat for shipping? Keep it comfortable in these ways:

• Thorough checkup – Take your cat to the vet to ensure it’s healthy enough to travel. Ask for a health certificate and ensure your cat has the vaccinations or medications it needs before the trip.
• Accurate identification – Get a customized tag and collar for your cat and include a leash. Some pet owners also get a microchip for the animal. Ensure your contact information on the ID tags is current.
• Comfortable crate – Choose a comfy crate or carrier for cat shipping. Label the crate, pad it, and add a few favorite toys or distractions that your cat loves. Buy the carrier in advance and put the comfort items in it. Give your cat time to get used to the environment.
• Quality food and water – Give your cat the quality food and water it deserves on a long-distance trip. And give it what it eats and drinks at home. Altering your cat’s diet while it’s in transit can make it irritable.
• As-needed sedation – You know your cat’s temperament. Although pet transportation drivers love animals, if you’ve owned your cat for a while, you can probably predict its reaction to being shipped on a long-distance ride with a stranger. Consult with your veterinarian to help you decide if sedation is appropriate for your pet.

3. Select a Cat Transportation Service

It’s easy to find a service that transports cats. But you’ll have to do some homework to find the right service to ship your pet. Before scheduling a date and signing a contract, ask questions:

• What paperwork is required for cat transport?
• How long will travel take?
• How do you handle travel during adverse weather?
• How frequently will you give me a status on your travel and my cat’s well-being?
• Do you have crate or kennel requirements for shipping a cat?
• What’s your schedule for feeding, exercise, and potty breaks?
• Are your cat shipping vehicles climate controlled?
• Where will my cat be located during the ride?
• What are your rates? Are there additional fees?
• What forms of payment do you accept? And when is payment due?

Transport Your Cat with Peace of Mind

How to ship a cat? You can safely ship your cat in style with Pet Van Lines ground transportation services. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that your cat’s transport experience includes:

• Drivers who care about animals
• A climate-controlled van
• Access to a fresh, clean litter box

Contact us for more information about our services or request a quote today.

The post How to Ship a Cat – 3 Steps to the Purrfect Kitty Ride appeared first on Pet Van Lines.

Moving your cat long-distance can be a tricky prospect, but it’s one that can be done with your feline family member kept safe, happy and healthy the whole way. Take a look at the planning and precautions to take when traveling long distance with cats, and learn how to keep your pet happy and secure on the journey.

Traveling Long Distance with Cats

There are a lot of decisions to make when traveling long distance with cats. The most basic of these is how you’re going to move. Are you going to drive or do you plan to fly? There are different considerations to make with each one, and different concerns to address.

Driving with Your Cat

If you plan to drive on your journey, make sure that your cat doesn’t eat or drink for several hours before the trip. This will help to keep them from getting sick, vomiting, or wetting themselves. Try to maintain their normal daily routine as much as you can, stopping for breaks at the right times. Keep the noise and music low to avoid stress, and don’t leave them alone. Let them know you’re there and be sure they can see you the whole time.

Flying Your Cat

If you plan to fly, you will probably have to store your cat in the baggage compartment. You’ll want to make sure you check the policies of the airline and complete any necessary paperwork. Make sure that the carrier is clearly designated as a live animal and has your full contact information securely attached, along with a description, photos and information about the cat.

Line the carrier to absorb accidents, attach dry food for the airline employees to feed your pet during layovers, and keep the crate securely closed, but not locked. If at all possible, fly direct.

Hire a Pet Moving Service

Of course, your best bet to get your beloved four-legged furry friend to their new forever home safely is to hire a professional, dedicated pet moving service. A service that knows and deeply cares about pets, and is dedicated to treating every pet like their own can be an outstanding solution to getting your cat from one home to another, allowing you to set up the home so they have a level of familiarity to help them adjust.

If you’re making a long distance move and you’d like information or help regarding moving your cat from your old house to your new one, Pet Van Lines can help. Our licensed and bonded professionals will take care of your cat like a member of our own family and deliver them safe, happy and healthy right to your new door. Give us a call to schedule a pickup or for more information today.

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