You often see vanlifers bringing their dogs along for the adventure, but what about those of us who love cats and want to bring our feline friends along for the ride? While it may seem daunting to bring a cat on a road trip, it is definitely possible with the right planning and preparation.
Start by leash training your cat
Even though cats are generally independent creatures, it’s important to keep them safe while on the road. A harness and leash will allow you to take them out of the van for fresh air and exercise without worrying about them running off. First, have your cat get comfortable wearing a harness. Because cats are extremely flexible, make sure the harness is snug so they are unable to slip out. Next, try walking your cat with a leash by guiding them without tension. This may be a challenging task since cats are known to call the shots. With patience and practice, your cat will be walking on a leash in no time.
harness your feline
rabbitgoo Cat Harness and Leash
$18.98
Keep your furry friend comfortable and cool with this breathable, lightweight harness. The soft air mesh material will fit snugly to your cat’s body, making it perfect for daily walks, hikes, and almost any outdoor adventures.
leash your feline
Fida Retractable Leash, 16 ft length for Small Pets up to 26lbs
$14.99
Retractable Pet Leash is a tangle-free, 16ft high-strength nylon tape leash that’s perfect for small dogs or cats up to 26lbs. It’s durable, reflective, and easy to use, making it a great option for outdoor activities such as walking, running, camping, and hiking.
Take your cat on car rides
Cats are highly attuned to their environment and any new sensations can trigger stress. Have your cat accompany you on car rides by having them in a cat carrier or cat seat. This way your cat can get used to vehicle and road noise.
Escape proof Carrier
Escape-Proof Cat or small Dog Carrier Bag
$30.59
This carrier is “escape proof” with a leash hook inside, and has multiple entry points for easy loading of your pet. It comes with car seat belt straps and is easily portable with carrying handles and an adjustable shoulder strap. It can also be easily stored when not in use by collapsing it down into a flat package.
Try a test run
Before hitting the road for an extended trip, it’s a good idea to take your cat on a shorter test run. This will help them get used to the van and the experience of traveling, and it will also give you a chance to see how they react to the new environment.
Create a comfortable living space for your cat
Make sure your cat has a comfortable space to call their own, with a bed, scratching post and a view. You can also bring familiar items like their favorite toys and blanket to help them feel more at home.
Make sure to include a litter box and a cozy spot for them to sleep. Try sprinkling some catnip around the van to create a positive association with the new surroundings.
out of sight litter box
Stylish Top Entry Cat Litter Box with Scoop
$39.99
This top entry litter tray offers a functional and aesthetically pleasing solution to your cat’s bathroom needs. With the top entry design, your cat’s business stays inside and out of sight in your van, and the enclosed design lessens the prevalence of unpleasant odors. It also prevents litter spillage, making for a stress-free environment for everyone. The included scoop has a hook for easy storage and makes clean-up a breeze.
COMFY BED
Washable Cat Bed for your Adventure Kitty – 20in
$16.99
The perfect comforting and supportive bed for adventurous cats, made with pet-safe materials, and with a cozy and minimalist design, it’s great for van life with your furry friend.
STRESS RELIEF SCRATCHER
Durable, Reversible Cat Scratch Pad – Perfect for Resting, Grinding Claws, and Playing – 5 Pack
$20.99
Made with 100% recycled corrugated cardboard, this cat scratch pad is safe for your pet and the environment. The reversible design with high density cardboard offers a longer lifespan and double the use. The scratcher pad is perfect for cats to rest, grind claws and play, providing a great stress relief while traveling in a van.
cat crack
Cat Crack: Premium blend catnip guarantees maximum potency
$11.99
Premium Catnip: 100% natural, fresh and potent blend for maximum cat enjoyment. Infused in your kitty’s toys, beds, and scratch posts for hours of play and exercise. Proprietary blend for long-lasting freshness.
Plan your stops
Plan your stops in advance to make sure they include places where your cat can stretch their legs, get some fresh air, and explore. Make sure to research the pet rules and regulations of the places you plan to visit. This is also a good time for your cat to eat, hydrate or use the litter box.
Collapsible bowls
Collapsible Food & Water Bowls for Travel & Camping
$10.99
These collapsible bowls are lightweight, easy to use, and made with safe, eco-friendly silicone. They are also durable and reusable, perfect for traveling and outdoor activities. They come in a set of 2 bowls, blue and green color, and include carabiners for easy storage and transportation.
Keep your cat’s routine
Stick to your cat’s routine as much as possible, including feeding times, play times and litter box cleaning times. This will help keep them calm and happy during the trip. Allow them to go out and explore the wilderness with you. Their curiosity will lead you both to unexpected places. A cat backpack can come in handy for those longer hikes with your feline friend. You can even try a night walk. Because cats are predatory animals, your cat may feel more in their element when exploring in the dark.
adventure backpack
Ventilated Carrier Backpack
$27.99
Designed for travel, hiking and outdoor use. Holds pets up to 18 pounds, with a ventilated design, safety straps, and chest buckles for added comfort and support. Removable cozy mat and collapsible for easy storage. This carrier is perfect for pet owners who want to bring their furry friends on outdoor adventures, while keeping them safe and comfortable.
Have a plan for emergencies
Make sure you have a plan in case of emergencies, such as a pet-friendly hotel or veterinarian in the area. It’s also a good idea to have your cat’s medical records and contact information for your regular vet on hand.
Be prepared for the unexpected
Van Life with cats can be unpredictable, so be prepared for the unexpected. Bring extra food and litter, and have a plan in case of bad weather or other unexpected events. Recently, there has been a trend of using Apple Air Tags for track pets. You may want to consider using an Air Tag for your cat as a precaution in case they wander off.
track your cat
AirTag Compatible Cat Collar with Bell and Safe Buckle
$13.99
This Air Tag cat collar is designed to securely hold an Air Tag device, allowing pet owners to easily track the location of their cat when out on an outdoor adventure. The collar is adjustable and made of comfortable, safe materials that won’t irritate the cat’s skin. Additionally, the collar features a sturdy buckle for easy release and attachment, and comes with a detachable bell.
Final Thoughts
We hope this inspires you to bring your cat along on your van life journey. With the right preparation, it’s feasible and worthwhile for both you and your feline friend. Always keep your cat’s safety and well-being in mind, and have fun exploring the open road together.
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-Roam Offgrid
