If you’ve ever tried to take your cat farther than the vet’s office, you already know—it’s not always a joy ride. Between the meowing, the hiding, and the occasional “accident,” it can be stressful for everyone involved. But with a little preparation, traveling with your cat doesn’t have to be a nightmare.
I recently spoke with certified feline behaviorist Stephen Quandt of CatBehaviorHelp.com, who shared some of his best advice for anyone planning to travel with their cat—whether it’s a short car trip or a cross-country flight.
Preparing Your Cat for the Carrier
If your cat bolts at the sight of a carrier, you’re not alone. Stephen reminds us that carrier training takes patience and gradual desensitization. Leave the carrier out as part of your cat’s environment with cozy bedding, treats, or toys inside so it becomes a familiar, safe space—not a trap.
For step-by-step help, see The Cat Bible, where I outline how to make your cat love their carrier instead of fear it. The goal: calm cat, calm car ride.
Car Travel With Cats
Most cats tolerate car travel better with a little practice. Start with short drives around the block, always rewarding your cat afterward. Over time, this helps them associate the car with positive experiences.
Before you hit the road, make sure to pack:
- Absorbent pee pads to line the carrier (for accidents)
- Plastic gloves & wipes for cleanup
- Paper towels and a small trash bag
- Feliway or Secure pheromone spray to help calm anxiety
- Water in a spill-proof dish or travel bottle
Avoid feeding a large meal right before travel—an anxious stomach can lead to a mess. A small snack or treat is fine if it helps comfort your cat.
💡 Safety tip: Never open the carrier in a moving vehicle. Even a sweet, calm cat can panic and hide under the pedals or wedge themselves into dangerous spaces.
If you’re staying overnight, check for cat-friendly hotels ahead of time. Stephen notes that Motel 6, La Quinta, and Red Roof Inn often welcome feline guests—and some even offer food bowls and litter boxes.
Flying With Cats
Airplane travel can be much more stressful for cats—and for you. Unless it’s absolutely necessary, Stephen and I agree that most cats are happier staying home with a trusted sitter.
If flying is unavoidable:
- Book early. Most airlines allow only two pets per cabin.
- Call twice. Confirm with a live agent that your cat is listed on your reservation—and call again a day or two before your flight to double-check.
- Use an airline-approved soft carrier. It should fit under the seat and have good airflow. (Brands like Sherpa make reliable ones.)
- Bring essentials: baby wipes, gloves, trash bags, pee pads, and a small towel or blanket for comfort.
- Get your cat used to a harness. You’ll need to take them out of the carrier at TSA security. A snug, escape-proof harness prevents a terrified cat from bolting.
- Carry vet records and make sure your cat’s microchip and ID tag are up to date.
Some cats experience nausea in cars or planes. Ask your vet about Cerenia, a safe anti-nausea medication for cats that travel poorly.
Should You Just Leave Your Cat at Home?
Sometimes the kindest option is not to take them at all. Cats are territorial creatures—they feel safest in familiar surroundings. A reliable cat sitter who visits twice a day is usually less stressful than uprooting your pet for a short trip.
But if you’re moving long-term or relocating abroad, bring them—with preparation, patience, and the right gear.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re crossing town or crossing the country, traveling with your cat requires planning—but it’s possible to make it comfortable for both of you.
- Acclimate early.
- Pack for accidents.
- Never skip ID and microchipping.
- Practice calm, positive handling.
And if you need professional guidance, Stephen Quandt at CatBehaviorHelp.com offers virtual consultations worldwide—including programs to help with carrier aversion.
Because as Stephen says, “Every cat is different—and no one knows your cat like you do.”
Safe travels to you and your feline co-pilot.