Posted on 09/10/2018 8:23:41 PM PDT by CatOwner
We're a couple months away (fingers crossed) from selling our house and moving from California to Texas. What we're trying to determine is the best way to move our three indoor-only cats. It should be noted that a 10 minute drive to the vet is a challenge. Not sure how we're going to handle a 1,700+ mile move.
I like your solution, especially for what I hope is a move we’re going to do once.
I think you got some good replies form people that seem familiar with cats. I never had a cat, but my approach would involve bubble wrap, several rolls of duct tape and three large boxes full of styrofoam peanuts.
I sure hope it was mine too!
Congratulations on your move out of that place.
Your problem does not seem too bad. We have four large dogs. With just one in the car I have to try to drive with a German Shepherd Dog sitting in my lap.
On the three hour or so flight escaping from Calif, I suspect they will need to go cargo. Your vet can advise on the timing of tranqs.
Second flight with two cats, had them in the cabin with us. Very mild tranqs and lots of petting kept them somewhat calm. Less than an hour in the carriers helped, of course.
When we moved from North Dakota to DC we had two indoor cats. We had the Vet give us kitty tranquilizers but one cat still howled a good part of the way.
It was a bit of a pain be we, and the cats, endured.
They need adequate ventilation and cool air.
Never leave them in the car. Even a ten minute gas stop, take them out in their carriers for air.
If you stay at a hotel etc, leash them, even if they don't like it.
Feline version of the Vulcan Neck Pinch ?
My vet recommended Comfort Zone pheromone spray: https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/cat/cat-health-and-wellness/cat-calming-sprays/comfort-zone-spray-and-scratch-control-spray-for-cat
It works quite well for short trips but I’d talk to your vet about such a long drive. Sometimes cats surprise you by settling in. We had a Persian years ago who actually enjoyed riding in the car, much to the surprise of passing motorists.
ROTFLMAO!
If you are towing a vehicle, consider putting them in the towed vehicle. That’s how I did it. In my case, the cat was in the camper shell of a towed pickup. Obviously, you have to provide airflow. It has the benefit of keeping them away from you while you are driving and need to concentrate on the road.
If yours are upset by travel you might want to get something from the vet to calm them down. You are going to be stressed and that will make them uneasy as well.
When you get there be prepared to have them find a quiet place to hide for a couple of days. Leave them alone with food, water and a couple of litter boxes.
Mail them, then you have a nice trip. Hope that helps.
Wife and I looking as well. Heading next month to look at lakes we might want to retire at. Some in Texas and one in Southern Missouri
Either some form of low dose sedative that is safe to use each travel day, maybe injecting them with subcutaneous water at the end of each day (it really is easy) if you fear they are dehydrated, which can kill them. OR ponying up $ to have them sent by air? If they are mowling for 3 days you will go insane or crash the car.
The camper idea is excellent.
Youre right to ask, because it is true that cats can vote in CA. Its perfectly legal. Even plants have that right. As well as felons, illegals, dead people, and minerals.
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