The suitcases are packed, you're officially in vacation mode... but then it hits you: what about your cat? For many pet parents, traveling with a cat is a big no-go.  They’d rather book a cat sitter or a stay at a cattery (see also: Cat Sitter Options for When You’re Away). But what if you are considering taking your furry friend along? 

Whether you’re going away for a weekend, planning a road trip, or exploring Europe in a camper van, here’s everything you need to know (and pack!) to take your little companion on holiday.

Why bringing your cat might be better than leaving them behind

Not every cat feels safe in a cattery or with a stranger watching them. Some cats are so attached to their human and daily routine that staying elsewhere actually causes more stress than tagging along.

Situations where taking your cat might actually be a great idea:

  • Your cat is very attached to you and becomes unsettled when you’re away
  • Your cat is highly sensitive to changes in scent or environment
  • You’re planning to travel more often by car or camper
  • You can’t find a trusted sitter or don’t fully trust catteries

Some cats have been traveling with their owners for years. With the right preparation, maybe your cat is an adventurer too?

 When not to bring your cat

Not all cats are cut out for traveling. Sometimes staying home is just safer and better.

You might want to leave your cat at home if:

  • They panic in the car or during travel
  • They easily get sick or require frequent medication
  • They’re not used to new environments and react very strongly
  • You're going to busy, chaotic places with changing locations or unsafe surroundings

💡If you're unsure, talk to your vet first: they can help assess whether traveling is a good idea for your cat.

 Is my cat a good fit for traveling?

A travel-ready cat typically:

  1. Is curious and not overly afraid of new smells or sounds
  2. Is used to the travel carrier
  3. Can be left alone for short periods (but still prefers you nearby)
  4. Doesn't panic during car rides

 How to prepare your cat (and yourself)

Cats are creatures of habit. The more predictable you make the travel experience, the less scary or overwhelming it will feel.

Training checklist:

  • Leave the travel carrier out weeks in advance, filled with snacks or a blanket
  • Take short practice drives to get your cat used to motion and noise
  • Consider using a calming pheromone spray like Feliway
  • Make sure the carrier is spacious and well-ventilated
  • Bring familiar items: blanket, favorite toy, even a worn T-shirt with your scent
  • Check if your stay is truly pet-friendly and safe (watch for open windows, toxic plants, etc.)
Travel Essentials

Still looking for the perfect compact & sturdy carrier?

Travel basket with steel door for Cat & Dog (Cappuccino) 50 x 50 x 35 cm
Travel basket with steel door for Cat & Dog (Cappuccino) 50 x 50 x 35 cm

£24.95
£24.95
£24.95
Travel basket with steel door for cats and dogs (Black) 50 x 50 x 35 cm
Travel basket with steel door for cats and dogs (Black) 50 x 50 x 35 cm

£24.95
£24.95
£24.95
RHR Pets Travel Carrier with Steel Door for Cats & Dogs (White) 50 x 50 x 35 cm
RHR Pets Travel Carrier with Steel Door for Cats & Dogs (White) 50 x 50 x 35 cm

£24.95
£24.95
£24.95
Travel basket with steel door for cats and dogs (blue) 50 x 50 x 35 cm
Travel basket with steel door for cats and dogs (blue) 50 x 50 x 35 cm

£24.95
£24.95
£24.95

The Complete Travel Checklist

Proper preparation makes all the difference between a stressful or smooth trip. Print this list or save it so you won’t forget a thing!

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 Travel Gear & Comfort

  •  Safe, spacious carrier (ideally one your cat already knows)
  •  Cozy blanket or cushion with familiar scent
  •  Comfort toys for reassurance and distraction
  •  Foldable litter box + cat litter
  •  Collapsible food & water bowls
  • Travel towel or wipes for accidents
  •  Travel safety net or seatbelt clip for car rides

 Food & Hydration

  • Enough dry food for the full trip + extra
  •  Wet food for extra hydration
  •  Clean drinking water in a sealed bottle
  • Snacks for reward or distraction

Health & Documents

  • Vaccination booklet /European Pet Passport (required for travel abroad!)
  •  Microchip checked & registered
  •  Flea/tick prevention + deworming tablets (administer before trip)
  •  First-aid kit for cats (with disinfectant, gauze, tweezers, etc.)
  •  Calming spray or pheromone diffuser
  •  Emergency vet contact + local vet in destination area
  •  Proof your accommodation is pet-friendly
  •  Rabies vaccination certificate (required for many countries outside the Netherlands)

 On the Road (Car, Camper, or Train)

  •  Extra litter + poop bags
  •  Optional: harness + leash (for exploring safely)
  •  Long trip? Plan stops for snacks/water and check your cat
  •  Use sunshades if the sun hits the carrier
  •  Never leave your cat in a hot car — not even for a minute!
  • Watch for stress signals (panting, hiding, aggression) and adjust accordingly

You don’t just discover new places, you discover how resilient your cat really is. And how much patience you actually have ;)

 Not a beach holiday, but definitely an adventure

Not every cat is made for adventure. Traveling with a cat means adapting and staying alert. It can be tiring, and definitely won’t be the most relaxing trip of your life. But it can be a memorable one.

With the right mindset, training, and preparation, it might go surprisingly well. Who knows… maybe this trip becomes the start of a whole new tradition for you and your cat.

Volg ons ook op Pinterest voor katten- én interieurinspiratie!

Thinking of traveling with your cat?

 Tell us in the comments below!

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