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Whether you heading out for a long journey, going out on vacation, or maybe you are just curious. For whatever reason, it’s important to make sure you understand your cat’s carrier limits in order to keep them comfortable and at ease.
A healthy adult cat can stay within a carrier for about 6 hours and will be completely fine, however, if the cat has enough food, water, and a litter box your cat will be able to go for a few more hours. However, experts recommend interval breaks in order to keep the cat’s blood flowing and some time for a quick breather.
When traveling long distances, some cats may be fine staying in the carrier while some cats will not. For example, cats that are more adventurous and playful will get bored and may start to become vocal and agitated. While the quiet and docile cats will be okay in the carrier because they enjoy the serene and lonely time.
Depending on your cat and its character, it’s important to prepare accordingly. The use of familiar smells and toys can keep them occupied for longer. Also make sure the cat is used to the carrier since a new carrier will be a strange object to the cats eye and the smell will be unfamiliar.
The time a cat can stay in a carrier is also directly linked to the size of carrier the general health of the cat and if the cat is used to the carrier.
Size of the carrier
Many pet owners are confused or misguided when purchasing a carrier. Sometimes the carrier might be too small and the only time you realise it is when you heading out long distance. A carrier should be big enough for the cat to stand up without crouching and can comfortably turn around.
If your cat cannot do this, they will become very uncomfortable and might get aggressive since they will feel entrapped. This will greatly reduce the time your cat can stay inside the carrier.
Cats health
Your felines health plays a vital role in how long they can stay in a carrier. A sick cat will not be able to tolerate being locked up in a carrier as they will be moody and agitated. They might also become aggressive and very vocal.
Sick cats also lose their ability to hold their poop and pee to an extent, reducing the time they can spend inside a carrier. An unwell cat is also prone to vomiting, which will make traveling in a carrier abit more uncomfortable since they will be restless and irritable.
How used the cat is to the carrier.
Some cats simply hate the carrier as it acts like a reminder of going to the vet or maybe they simply don’t like to be restricted. For whatever the reason this can be very problematic especially if you have to travel or maybe moving out.
In such cases the use of natural sedatives and calming herbs can help to reduce anxiety and panic to keep the cat within the carrier for longer.
A well trained cat will have no issue in staying in the carrier as they are used to the carriers environment and the feeling isnt strange or unfamiliar.
Can sedation help to keep cats in a carrier for longer ?
Yes, if your cat is troublesome and simply hate the carrier or maybe your cat is sick, the use of natural sedatives and over the counter pills can help to keep them calm and relaxed for longer. When traveling long distances with troublesome cats it can be very difficult to control them.
Their aggressiveness, vocalizations and scratching can be very distracting especially when driving. In this case a good sedative can work pleasantly well. I suggest melatonin as it will promote sleep to help the cat rest in this stressful situation. Herbs like catnip, chamomile and valerian can also work well.
Can a cat stay in a carrier overnight?
Cat carriers were designed and made for traveling purposes only. By no means should a carrier supplement a cats home, therefore I would say you should not leave a cat in a carrier overnight. Leaving a cat in a carrier overnight is a little cruel if you ask me, as you are restricting the cat from its freedom and personal space.
No matter how good the carrier may be or what features it have It doesnt provide the space and freedom that cats like. Your cat will feel restricted and may attempt to get itself out of the carrier. Even if you provide enough water, food and litterbox it shouldn’t be a choice.
A carrier can also tend to be stuffy at times since most of the carriers are made from material and dust settles on fabric more easily. More of a reason to not put a cat in it overnight. A good alternative could be a cage or a crate as it is alot more spacious, however this shouldn’t supplement a kitty home and must only be used when you have no other option.
Alternatives to Cat Carriers when Traveling?
So for some reason if your cat doesnt like the carrier when traveling there are a few alternatives that can be used. When taking car rides, flights or even rv travels these alternatives can help but make sure you check with authorities when catching flights since some airlines may not allow some of the alternatives I’m about to mention.
Pet Travel sling bag – This is a bag that sets around your should. Its strong, comfortable and durable. The cat sits inside the bag with an opening for the head.
This sling bag provides bonding time for the cat and its owner as they are together. It’s also good for traveling even for cats that are not used to traveling. Since you will be present with your cat they will feel more at ease and less stressed.
Cat window perch – Is an awesome way to keep cats entertained and relaxed while on car or rv rides.
It’s safe for windows provided the window is closed. This perch provides a comfortable hammock on the window. Allowing for the cat to be captivated by the visual scenery while you travel. When using the perch i suggest you have the cat harnessed and secure in case the cat jumps around the car and distract the driver.
Cat Car Seats – Pet car seats are great way to travel without the hassle of a carrier and troublesome cats.
This cozy seat is fully adjustable to help your cat see out the window while out for a ride. It’s made with soft padded microsuede and features a quilted pad liner for the ultimate in car ride comfort. Your cats harness can attach to the included safety tether to prevent him/her from roaming around while the car is in motion. It also features straps for the headrest and seat belt loops for stability—a great way to help prevent car sickness and anxiety.
These examples are great alternatives for cats that hate carriers, as it provides safety yet it doesnt enclose them. Your cat will be delighted to travel without the need of a carrier.
