Road travel
Travelling With a Cat by Car
Carrier training, safe restraint and comfort tips for car journeys, from vet trips to moving house.
Start with the carrier
Leave the carrier out as a bed, with treats and bedding inside, so it stops predicting vet visits. Top-opening carriers make handling easier.
Secure it in the car
Wedge the carrier in a footwell or seat-belt it on the back seat. Never let a cat roam loose in a moving car.
Comfort
- Cover part of the carrier with a towel
- Keep the car cool and quiet
- Offer a small meal several hours before, not just before
- Ask your vet about anti-nausea or anti-anxiety medication for long trips
Further reading
Organisations whose published guidance covers this topic.
- IATA live animals — airline rules for transporting animals
- AVMA — American Veterinary Medical Association owner resources
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species