Travelling with Pets: Tips for Safe Cat and Dog Adventures

Heading out with your pet? Whether it’s by car, train or further afield, a smooth journey starts with a little preparation. With thoughtful planning and a few familiar comforts, you can help your cat or dog feel secure and settled from the moment you set off.

Travelling with Cats

Cats love their familiar safe spaces and routines, so travel can feel like a big change. Here’s how to help them feel secure and supported throughout the journey.

Before You Go

• Get cats used to the carrier: Place it in your home a week or two in advance with a soft blanket and familiar scents. Try short car trips first to reduce stress.
• Stick to their regular meals: Keep their diet consistent with trusted favourites like Applaws Adult Wet Cat Food Pouches, which are easy to pack, store, and serve.
• Pack their essentials: Bring their usual food and treats, water, a familiar blanket or toy, portable litter tray, and cleaning supplies.
• Consider calming aids: Pheromone sprays or collars can help reduce stress.
• Talk to your vet about whether a gentle sedative may be worthwhile for one-off journeys.

On the Journey

• Secure the carrier: Place it on the back seat and fasten with a seatbelt to keep it stable.
• Avoid opening doors: Keep the carrier closed until you’re in a secure, enclosed space.
• Keep calm and quiet: Your tone and movement matter. Keep calm, avoid loud music, and drive gently.

At Your Destination

• Set up a quiet base: Choose a peaceful room for their food, water, litter tray, and resting area.
• Reinforce calm behaviour: Reward them with a familiar Applaws Creamy Lickable Treat to help them associate travel with positive experiences.
• Keep routines consistent: Feed and interact at the usual times.

Travelling with Dogs

Dogs are often more adaptable but still benefit from thoughtful preparation:

Before You Go

• Prepare a travel kit: Include their Applaws Dry Food plus Applaws Taste Toppers, favourite treats, leads, bowls, and doggy bags.
• Feed in advance: Feed your dog at least two hours before travel to avoid motion sickness.
• Plan rest stops: Schedule breaks every 2–3 hours for bathroom trips and a stretch.

On the Journey

• Use a harness or crate: Secure your dog safely in the back seat using a travel harness or crate.
• Hydration matters: Offer water regularly using a spill-proof travel bowl.
• Never leave them in a parked car: Even for a few minutes.

At Your Destination

• Create a familiar zone: Bring their bed, toys and food bowl to set up a calming space.
• Stick to your routine: Walk and feed them at familiar times.
• Monitor behaviour: Look out for signs of stress like pacing or excessive panting, and offer comfort.

With the right steps, travel can be enjoyable for everyone – tails included! A little planning goes a long way to keeping your pet comfortable and safe.