How to Transport a Cat Safely: The Role of a Cat Carrier

The cat is an animal of undoubted charm, around which legends and popular beliefs revolve, such as the one that states that our feline friends have seven lives.

There are about four million Italian families who have chosen the cat as a pet. Strong and very independent, it can certainly be a tender, affectionate and playful friend.

It may happen that one day you will need to transport your four-legged friend with you. In this article you will find everything you need to know to choose the most suitable and safe carrier for your cat .

• Transporting your cat safely: why is it important to use a carrier?
• How to choose a cat carrier
• What is the right size carrier for your cat?
• How to Put Your Cat in a Carrier Without Stressing Him
• What is the best cat carrier?
• Practical tips for travelling safely with your cat

Transporting your cat safely: why is it important to use a carrier?

The use of a carrier is necessary for the safety of your cat during travel.

Holding a pet in your arms in the car , in addition to being prohibited by law , which establishes well-defined rules for the transport of pets, can be extremely dangerous .

The cat could in fact get scared and react in an unexpected way, thus putting the safety of both at risk , in addition to the possibility of getting hurt in the event of a sudden and abrupt braking.

It is therefore essential to have a cat carrier during car journeys, whether short or long.

How to choose a cat carrier

The choice of carrier must meet the safety and comfort needs of your cat.

Here's how you can help you make your choice.

• Size is the most important feature you will need to consider. The right carrier should be large enough for your cat to turn around easily , sit up and lie down comfortably. However, there should not be too much space either, as excessive movement could cause the cat to swing and bang around, causing injury during the journey.
  
• The closure must be easy, but at the same time secure to ensure that it does not open inadvertently.
  
• Since you will be the one holding it, check its handling.
  
• It is essential that the carrier is also well ventilated (and therefore sufficiently open) and that it guarantees good visibility.
  
• An eye also to hygiene, it is necessary that it is easily removable to be able to wash it .

It is highly recommended to opt for products that guarantee non-toxic and quality materials since the furry friend will have to spend time inside it.

What is the right size carrier for your cat?

We have already said that the carrier must first of all be the right size. If you want to be sure not to make a mistake, all you have to do is take the measurements of your cat , from the base of the neck to that of the tail .

To the length of the back thus determined, add 50% and you will obtain, approximately, the right length of the carrier. Also take into account the weight of your animal to be sure that it can hold it.

How to Put Your Cat in a Carrier Without Stressing Him

It might seem like a trivial question if you are new to having a cat, but in reality, it is not.

Your four-legged friend may in fact be wary and reluctant to enter the carrier.

Here are some actions that you will have to implement to get him used to it from an early age , in order to avoid problems later on: adult cats are in fact less inclined to new things:

• Place one of your items of clothing in the carrier and leave it open . This will allow your cat to approach calmly and become familiar with the “mysterious” object.
  
• Place some biscuits or toys near the entrance to the carrier and, initially, do not close it. When the feline begins to enter it with ease, you can slowly close the door.
  
• If the cat is not convinced, use a pheromone spray or keep the carrier in a room with a pheromone diffuser , which is an odorous substance that is not detectable by humans and can calm cats.
• Start with short trips so your friend can get used to the noises and swaying of the car.

Now all you have to do is choose a comfortable and good quality cat carrier.

What is the best cat carrier?

There are different types of cat carriers on the market, from the softest ones to the most rigid ones, which are undoubtedly the most used. However, it depends on the use you need to make of it.

Rigid pet carriers are comfortable and durable , easy to clean and perfect for taking your pet to the vet, but also recommended for longer journeys.

They have a handle and can be attached to the seat belt . The ventilation slots allow for good ventilation. They also often have an opening to cuddle the cat.

If you decide to take your cat with you on the plane, remember to contact the airline to get information on the permitted weight and dimensions, so as not to run into any last-minute hitches.

Soft fabric carriers with shoulder straps are only suitable for small, very docile cats and for quick travel. The mesh inserts generally present guarantee the right ventilation.

This type of carrier has the advantage of allowing the animal, if particularly anxious, to stay close to its owner.

If your cat weighs no more than 6 kg and you want to take it for a walk with you, you can opt for an elegant zipped carrier bag , convenient pockets to store your furry friend's essentials, a side and top opening, an internal safety leash, a soft-bottomed pad, a safety lock buckle and a trolley attachment handle to take your friend on holiday with you.

Regardless of the type of carrier you choose, based on the characteristics of your pet and your needs, a useful tip is to always place a pad at the base for your cat's needs. Especially in the case of fabric carriers that are more difficult to clean than plastic ones.

Practical tips for travelling safely with your cat

If you decide to take your furry friend on vacation with you and you have to face a long car journey, in addition to equipping yourself with the right carrier, know that there are some precautions to take to protect the animal and its tranquility.

Spending so many hours in the car could in fact be a source of stress for him, here are some of our tips to make the journey more pleasant:

• Have your vet do a check-up before you leave to make sure there are no contraindications regarding your pet's health. They may also prescribe a treatment to alleviate any discomfort related to the trip.
  
• Pack your friend's suitcase with everything he needs for his stay , such as food, any medicines he usually takes, toys, a litter box and anything you might need for his care and hygiene .
  
• Do not give food at least two hours before departure to avoid car sickness.
  
• Always keep fresh water on hand to keep your cat hydrated.
• Make regular stops.
• Bring a leash with you so you can stretch your friend during stops.
• Pay attention to temperature changes .

If you are a beginner and need some useful advice on cat carriers and everything you need for your new friend, in theMillstore pet shop dedicated to cats you will find all the products of the best brands to satisfy the needs of your pet.

Food, flea and tick products, bowls, collars and leashes, kennels, scratching posts, supplements and everything you can think of to raise a healthy and happy cat.

Also, if you need information or advice on choosing products, contact us! Our team is at your complete disposal.