What to do with your Cat when you go on Holiday

If you have a cat, you know and understand the stress when it comes to your holiday plans. One common question you find yourself asking – What do you do with your cat? Well, we have listed three of our best advice tips when it comes to planning your holiday to make sure your decision is the best for your kitty, and that they are safe, calm and happy!

Should I take my cat with us on holiday?

Taking your cat with you:

If you are holidaying in the United Kingdom or Ireland, pets can now travel freely within Europe, as long as they are microchipped, vaccinated against rabies and in possession of an up-to-date pet passport. The wisdom of this choice really depends on the type of cat you have. Some calm, people-loving, relaxed cats can make ideal travelling companions. Others may get stressed, excitable, or nervous when travelling.  These cats are happier to be left in their own space, whether in a cattery or at home, rather than being exposed to life on the move.

The journey and how best to prepare for it:

The travelling itself can be extremely stressful for a cat, so if you do decide that the best option is for your cat to join you, you should try to take every step to ensure you alleviate as much stress as possible.

The best way to start this process is to ensure the carrier you have is one that your cat loves and knows well.  So we would advise you leaving the carrier open at home for the cat to wander around (and even sleep in) in the comfort of their own home.

We would recommend too that you spray the carrier, the bedding and your cat with calming spray at home for weeks leading up to travel, and then again 5 minutes before you leave. This will ensure that your cat senses “familiarity” and will be calmer when on the move. Once at your destination, again, leave the carrier open in the “holiday home” so that your cat can retreat into the carrier until they feel safe to wander.

You need to consider the duration of your holiday too and whether it really is worth the stress for your cat if you are only planning a couple of days away. If, however, the trip is a long one, make sure you have scheduled stops so that your cat can stretch their legs. If you are going to let your cat out of the bag (excuse the pun), be sure to have a harness and lead securely in place as a scared cat may bolt!

Leaving your cat at home:

Cats tend to be habitual creatures who love their own space, so you may find that a very easy option is to find a kind neighbour or a pet-sitter to pop into your home every day for 30 minutes to check up on your cat, as well as to top up water and food.

Checking your cat into a cattery:

Catteries are great if you have no other options, or your cat is very familiar with the cattery you have chosen.  Your cat will be in a foreign territory, with less person-to-person contact than usual, and in all honesty, this may not suit every cat’s needs.

Make sure you do your homework when choosing a cattery.  Find one that is reputable and that have staff that will spend time with your cat every day.

How will PetproBio help?

PetproBio is a natural prebiotic supplement for your pet’s overall health and wellbeing. It is safe to use on a day to day basis as a way of preventing health-related problems and can be used as needed, particularly when animals are likely to be stressed. This makes it the perfect remedy for your cat during times of travel, whether you leave your cat behind, take them with you or book them into a cattery.

Before travelling, make sure you see the vet

It is important, if you decide to travel with your cat or leave them with a cattery, that you check-in with the vet before and after your trip.

Your cat’s vaccinations and anti-flea treatments must be up to date, along with your contact details so that if there are any problems you or your vet can be contacted immediately.

To find out more about PetproBio, Pet Remedy or any of our products, visit us here.

Happy Holidays!