Copyright © 2023 by Carmen Klassen

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without permission in writing from the publisher, except by a reviewer who may quote brief passages in a review.

The information in this book is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only based on our own experiences traveling with our own cats. If you have any concerns or questions about traveling with your cat, you should talk to your vet or another qualified professional who is familiar with your cat specifically and its limitations or special requirements.

Published by Jewelspride Publishing

Cover design photo credit: Yvette Simpson; Cat is Jewelspride HeyZeus

ISBN 978-1-7387616-9-2

This book is protected under the copyright laws of Canada. Any reproduction or other unauthorized use of the material or photographs contained herein is prohibited without the express written permission of the author.

Secure Travel Carrier

A travel carrier for your cat is the top item on our list of necessities for cat travel. A travel carrier can not only keep your cat safe, secure, and comfortable during the driving portions of an RV road trip, but it can also keep the driver safe as well.

When a cat is loose in an RV, they can become a distraction to the driver by jumping on their lap or getting underfoot. This can cause the driver to lose focus and make mistakes on the road, which can be dangerous for everyone. A travel carrier keeps your cat in a designated space, reducing the chances of them becoming a distraction to the driver.

Additionally, in the event of an accident, a travel carrier can help protect your cat from injury and keep them secure. Cats can become easily frightened during a stressful situation and may try to escape or hide, which can be dangerous during an accident. A travel carrier can provide a safe and secure space for your cat to stay while you deal with the situation.

Lastly, some states and provinces have laws that prohibit animals loose in the car, and a travel carrier can be seen as compliance with such laws, keeping the driver safe from legal issues.

Choosing a Travel Carrier: Hard Carrier or Soft Carrier?

When it comes to traveling with your cat, one important aspect to consider is the type of travel carrier you will use. There are two main types of travel carriers: hard carriers and soft carriers. Each type has its own set of benefits and drawbacks when it comes to your cat's safety and enjoyment. The most important thing is to make sure your cat is familiar with the one you’ll be taking on the road well before you leave on your trip. You want it to feel cozy and familiar to them while you travel.

Hard carriers are typically made of plastic or metal and offer a high level of protection for your cat. They are strong and durable, and provide a secure and stable environment for your cat, which can be especially helpful for cats that are anxious or stressed during travel. However, hard carriers can be less comfortable for your cat, especially during longer trips, and they may not provide as much ventilation as soft carriers.

Soft carriers, on the other hand, are typically made of fabric or mesh and can sometimes offer a higher level of comfort for your cat. They are lighter and easier to move, so they are good for road trips. They also provide more ventilation, which can help keep your cat cool and comfortable during travel. However, soft carriers do not offer as much protection as hard carriers.

There are also brands and options that can be expanded to give your cat more room to move around and stretch, making the trip more comfortable for them. An added bonus is that this type of carrier can be used as a temporary indoor home for your cat while you're parked at a campground or other destination. There are some great travel carriers that expand to two or three times their size, allowing you to convert a confined carrier into a more spacious enclosure for your cat to stretch out and move around in. There are so many options for expandable travel carriers on the market now that it’s easy to find one to meet any cat’s needs or any owner’s budget.

When choosing between a hard carrier and a soft carrier, it's important to consider the nature of your trip and your cat's individual needs. For long trips or air travel, a hard carrier may be the best option for safety and security. But for shorter trips or cats who like to be more comfortable, a soft carrier that can be expanded may be a better option.

Both hard carriers and soft carriers have their own set of benefits and drawbacks when it comes to the safety and enjoyment of your cat. It's important to consider the nature of your trip and your cat's individual needs when choosing between the two.

Pet Identification

The next thing on our road trip checklist, and also related to your cat’s safety, is proper identification. Be sure to pack a recent photo of your cat (even if your phone has 1000 photos of your cat on it, phones can die or become lost while traveling), veterinary records, and any other identification documents. In case your cat gets lost or stolen, a recent photo will help others you meet along your journey identify and locate it. Also, having a copy of your cat's veterinary records, including the microchip number, will help you prove ownership and make sure that your cat gets the right medical care if it gets lost.

Collar With ID Tag

Collars are a simple and effective way to allow others to identify your cat if he is lost or stolen while you’re traveling. Your phone number and address should be clearly visible on your cat's collar or ID tag. This will allow anyone who finds your cat to quickly contact you and have a better chance of being able to return him to you. There are many kinds of cat ID collars available, which can be a vital first step to helping ensure your cat is returned to you safely if it escapes or wanders off unexpectedly.

Microchip Registration

Before you go on your trip, you should also register your cat's microchip with a national database if you haven’t already done so and make sure your contact information is up-to-date in case it changes. This way, even if your cat gets lost far from home, anyone who finds them will be able to contact you. We’ve seen cats lost or stolen over the years, and sometimes the owners are impossible to find despite our best efforts because of outdated records or non-registered microchips. Each kitten that leaves us is automatically registered to our cattery, but if the owner has not taken the time to also register themselves to the microchip, it makes it very difficult for breeders, veterinarians, or rescue agencies to help reunite an owner with their cat.

Enjoying the Outdoors With Your Cat

Whether you’re traveling by motorhome, trailer, or tent trailer, one of the most exciting things to do with your cat on a road trip is to get out and enjoy the terrain and amazing scenery with them. If the weather is nice and you’re spending most of your time outside of the RV, then it's essential to have an outdoor enclosure on board for your cat. This will allow your cat to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine with you while you're parked at a campground without the risk of them wandering off or getting lost. Look for an enclosure that is sturdy and secure, with a roof to protect your cat from the sun and rain. When choosing an outdoor enclosure, it's important to consider the size, security, and durability of the enclosure.

Larger Enclosures

A larger, outdoor cat enclosure is a really great option for extended RV travel with an active cat, as it provides a large, safe and secure space for your cat to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine on a regular basis. These types of enclosures are typically made of durable metal materials such as aluminum or steel and are designed to be set up outside of the RV while you are stationary.

When choosing an outdoor cat enclosure, look for one that is large enough for your cat to move around in comfortably and that has a secure and sturdy door or gate to prevent your cat from escaping. Also, make sure that the enclosure is made of durable metal materials that can withstand the elements and that it is easy to set up and take down.

It's a good idea to put a roof over the enclosure to protect your cat from the sun - this can be as simple as a small tarp, or piece of wood that can be secured to the top.

Consider adding a small foldable cat tree inside the outdoor enclosure.  I can also be brought into the RV for use during travel. It provides a comfortable and secure space for your cat to rest and scratch - both indoors and out - which can help to keep their claws healthy and prevent destructive scratching inside your RV.  It's also simple to fold up and store when not in use.

Small foldable cat trees are typically made of durable materials such as wood or fabric and sometimes feature multiple levels, platforms, and scratching posts. They are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them easy to transport and store. They also come in a variety of sizes and designs, so you can choose one that is appropriate for your cat's size and needs, as well as the available space onboard your rig.

When using a large outdoor cat enclosure, it's important to place it in a well-ventilated area, away from vehicle emissions and any sources of heat or direct sunlight. Also, make sure to supervise your cat while they are in the enclosure to ensure their safety. Set it up in an area where you’ll be spending most of your outdoor time. It’s also a good idea to make sure that the metal is coated or treated to prevent rust and corrosion in case it’s left outdoors for an extended period of time, to ensure that the enclosure will last for a long time.

A larger, sturdy outdoor cat enclosure is a must-have for RV travel with a cat if you plan to spend a lot of time enjoying the outdoors and don’t want to leave your travel companion locked up indoors without you.

Smaller Enclosure Options

Large enclosures are not always convenient to transport, and may not even be necessary if you’re not spending a ton of time stationary and will just be driving most of the time rather than camping.  There are smaller and less expensive options available for these types of road trips:

Portable pen or playpen: this can be set up on a campsite or even inside your RV. These are usually made of mesh or nylon, are super lightweight, and can be folded for easy storage. They come in a variety of sizes and provide a secure space for your cat to play and explore for a short period of time, but your cat should not be left alone in them if you choose to go for a hike, or other outing and leave them behind.  It would be easy for a larger animal to tear or break into the pen and your cat could be lost or injured.

These outdoor enclosure options are campsite-friendly and can be set up on a variety of surfaces, including grass, gravel, or pavement. They are also easy to clean and maintain and provide a secure and comfortable space for your cat to enjoy indoors and out while on the road.

Harnesses and Leashes

You may have a cat who is used to hitting the trails with you or going on daily strolls around the neighborhood when at home. With a cat like this, you’ll want to keep to a regular walking routine while on the road as well.  Your regular harness and leash may need an upgrade for the added safety risk of walking outdoors in locations far away from home.

A strong harness and leash are extra important while on an RV road trip. A well made harness provides a secure and comfortable way to control your cat while on a walk, and a strong retractable leash allows you to let them safely explore while ensuring they can be reeled back in close to you if an uncertain situation arises or they get spooked.

When choosing a harness for your cat, look for one that is made of durable materials and that is adjustable to fit your cat comfortably. A harness with a padded chest and belly strap will provide added comfort for your cat. Additionally, look for a harness that has a secure front D-ring attachment point, which will give you more control and prevent your cat from escaping.

This also applies to choosing a leash; look for one made of nylon or leather rather than a cheap rope or fabric construction. A good retractable leash with an easy-to-operate one-hand button brake and lock function can be a good option, as it allows your cat more freedom to explore while still giving you the control you need in any situation.

It's important to remember that not all cats will take kindly to wearing a harness and leash, so it's important to introduce the harness and leash gradually to your cat and make it a positive experience with treats and praise. It's also important to supervise your cat while they are on a walk and not leave them unattended. For more help with harness training your cat, check out our article, “Harness and Leash Training Your Cat." 

Pet Stroller

Depending on how you feel about it and whether or not your ego will allow you to sport one (!), a pet strollercan be a great addition to an RV road trip with a cat. Pet strollers are a safe and easy way to move your cat around when you're camping or going to a new place. They’re also an excellent alternative to walking your cat on a harness and leash if your cat has not adapted to that and you don’t feel 100% safe doing it with them in a strange place.

One of the benefits of a pet stroller is that it allows your cat to safely explore new environments. If your cat is nervous or not used to being outside, a stroller can provide a secure and comfortable space for them to experience the great outdoors. It also allows your cat to get some fresh air and sunshine while you're camping without having to worry about him wandering off or breaking free from his leash.

Another benefit of a pet stroller is that it can also be used as a temporary indoor home for your cat while you're parked at a campground or other destination. You can have your cat sit alongside you at the campfire and enjoy all the socialization and fun in the campground, while being safe and secure.

When choosing a pet stroller, it's important to consider the size, security, and durability of the stroller. Look for a stroller that is large enough for your cat to move around in comfortably and that has a secure and sturdy door or gate to prevent your cat from escaping. Also, make sure that the stroller is made of durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of travel. There are many great styles and colors of pet strollers available on the market, and depending on what types of locations you’ll be visiting on your travels, you might want to check out some all-terrain options that might be more compatible with longer walks and hikes.

Cat Wheel

If space in your RV allows and if your cat enjoys using one, bringing a cat exercise wheel along can be a great option for RV travel with an active cat. A cat wheel provides a fun and stimulating way for your cat to exercise and burn off pent-up energy while on the go. It also helps keep your cat healthy and active when they live in a small space, like an RV, and can keep them from getting bored or anxious.  

When choosing a cat wheel for your RV, look for one that is made of durable materials, is large enough for your cat, and is also lightweight. Consider the space available in your RV, as some cat wheels can take up a significant amount of space.  There are some wheels on the market that are made from lighter materials, making them slightly smaller and less noisy than others.

It’s also important to consider the noise level of the wheel, as some cat wheels can be quite loud, especially when operated at high speeds. A rubber mat, or piece of carpeting placed below the base of the wheel can often reduce the vibration and noise created by the wheel when in use.

Food

When traveling with your cat, it's important to choose a type of cat food that is easy to store and transport and also suitable for your cat's dietary needs and regular routine.

Dry food is often considered the best type of cat food for traveling because it is lightweight, easy to store, and has a long shelf life. It also doesn't need to be kept cold and is easy to divide up for the length of your trip.

Another (healthier) option is freeze-dried raw food, which is lightweight, easy to store, and has a long shelf life. It is also easy to rehydrate and can be used as a complete meal or as a supplement to your cat's diet.

If your cat eats canned or raw food, you’ll need to bring that along, but it can be heavy, take up more space, and also require refrigeration. If you feed canned or raw food, it's important to bring a portable cooler or insulated bag to keep the food fresh while on the road. There are some excellent options to choose from, both hard-sided and soft-sided, depending on your preferences and budget.

Regardless of the type of food you choose to bring along on the trip, it's important to make sure that it is what your cat is used to eating at home and that you bring enough of it to last the entire trip, or plan ahead to pass by locations that sell the food you use. Also, make sure to bring a few days' worth of extra food in case of delays or unexpected changes in plans.

Litter Box

A litter box is an obvious necessity to have on board with a traveling cat, but these can be large, messy, and not convenient to bring on a trip. Choose one that’s lightweight, collapsible, and easy to clean, making it more convenient for RV travel. You can also level up in this department by opting for a collapsible one with a lid to keep litter and odors enclosed. These litter boxes can be used both indoors and outdoors during the trip and can be a great solution for cats that are super messy with their litter. Whichever type you opt for, a portable litter box is a must-have when traveling with a cat in an RV.

When picking a portable litter box for your cat, you should think about how big it is and what kind of litter it can hold. Look for a box that is large enough for your cat to move around in comfortably. It's also a good idea to choose a box that is made of a durable, easy-to-clean material, or bring disposable litter liners to avoid having to wash or wipe down the litter box itself at all.

When using a portable litter box in an RV, it's important to make sure that it's placed in a well-ventilated area to help to keep the litter fresh and prevent odors from building up inside your RV.

Pellet litter is another great option; it is fresh smelling, easy to store, and can be used with a sifting litter pan. This type of litter is made from compressed sawdust and forms small pellets, making it easy to scoop and dispose of.

Litter Storage

Regardless of the type of litter you choose, it's important to bring enough of it to last the entire trip and a few days extra, in case of delays or unexpected changes in plans.

When it comes to carrying and storing the litter, consider using a litter container with a tight-fitting lid to keep the litter dry and prevent spills. If you're traveling in a motorhome or a camper, you can store the litter in a cabinet or a storage compartment. If you're traveling in a smaller RV or van, you can use a plastic container or a litter storage bag to keep the litter dry and prevent spills. We've found that when traveling with cats, it's better to use a large resealable storage bag instead of a hard plastic container. This is because as the litter gets used up, the bag gets smaller, taking up less space, and becoming easier to store.

Don’t forget to bring a small litter scoop and a small container of litter freshener to keep the litter smelling fresh and clean during your trip!

Toys

Last - but definitely not least - we can’t forget toys!  Space-saving toys are another must-have when RVing with a cat. These types of toys are designed to be compact and easy to store, making them perfect for use in small spaces like an RV. A wand toy, puzzle toys, and a cat tunnel that can be folded up are all great ways to keep your cat busy and entertained while also preventing boredom and stress. A collapsible cat tree can provide your cat with a place to scratch, climb, and nap while also being easy to stow away when not in use. Here are a few examples of some of our favorite compact or space-saving toys that are great for RV travel with a cat:

Laser pointer: Laser pointer toys can be a great option for entertaining your cat while traveling in an RV. These small, handheld toys project a red dot that cats can chase, providing them with a fun and interactive way to exercise and play while on the road.

Small balls: These toys are lightweight and easy to carry, and can be used for a variety of games such as chasing, batting or fetching. They are a great way to keep your cat entertained and engaged during the trip.

Mouse toys: These toys shaped like small mice, can be used for a variety of games such as chasing, batting or fetching and are great for satisfying your cat's hunting instincts and keeping them entertained during the trip. Our cats especially like the ones with catnip inside!

These are just a few examples of compact or space-saving toys that are great for RV travel with a cat. With the right selection of toys, you can ensure that your cat stays entertained and engaged while on the road.

Conclusion

And there you have it — all the information you need to make your RV travels with your cat a success! From outdoor enclosures to space-saving toys — and even portable cat exercise wheels. We've covered everything you need to know to make your road trip with your feline friend as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Remember, the right preparation and equipment can make all the difference when it comes to your cat's safety and comfort. Most important of all, don't forget to have fun and make memories with your cat on the road. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. Happy travels!

Special thanks to Yvette and Dan for allowing me to use some of their photos as examples of setting up an RV to accommodate a cat and cat gear needed for traveling. You can follow their adventures with HeyZeus and Hosehey @Beach_Bound_Bengals

Photo credits: Yvette Simpson, who has HeyZeus and HoseHey from our cattery, Jewelspride Bengals, and so kindly allowed us to share her wonderful photos. Follow their cat RV adventures on Instagram @Beach_Bound_Bengals.