Traveling to Your Hometown with Your Cat! A Guide to What to Bring, Preparations, and Transportation

If you live with a cat, you may wonder what to do when you go back to your hometown.

Should you leave them at a pet hotel, or let them stay home alone? While it's difficult if you're traveling by plane, taking your cat with you by car or Shinkansen is also an option when returning home.

In this article, we will explain the pros and cons of traveling home with your cat, what to bring, modes of transport, and points to note.

Pros and Cons of Traveling Home with Your Cat

There are both advantages and disadvantages to traveling home with your cat.

Pros of Traveling Home with Your Cat

For affectionate cats or those requiring health management, the benefits of traveling home together are significant.

• You can spend more time with your cat.
• No pet hotel fees.
• No worries about being separated during a disaster.
• You can manage their food and medication.
• Your cat won't feel lonely.

Cons of Traveling Home with Your Cat

Cats are sensitive to environmental changes. Depending on your cat's personality and the mode of transportation, traveling together can cause stress. Let's understand these disadvantages as well.

• Limited travel options.
• The cat may experience stress from travel.
• They may get sick due to environmental changes.
• Risk of escape.
• Escape prevention measures will also be needed at your family home.

What to Bring When Traveling Home with Your Cat

When traveling home with your cat, you'll be in an unfamiliar place. It's important to prepare thoroughly for what you'll need during travel and at your family home or destination.

The necessary items are as follows:

Carrier Bag/Cage

Always put your cat in a carrier bag or cage during travel. If it's something they're used to, it can also become their safe space at your destination.

Harness and Leash

Even if your cat is in a carrier bag, there's still a risk of them suddenly jumping out and escaping. To prevent escapes during travel or at your destination, we recommend putting a harness and leash on them.

It's also useful in case of evacuation during a disaster, so it's a good idea to get your cat accustomed to a harness and leash beforehand.

Litter Box and Cat Litter

At your destination, you can use a portable litter box or a cardboard box as a substitute. However, to help your cat feel at ease, mix a little of their used litter with their usual cat litter.

Food and Dishes

Even when visiting, give them the food they are used to eating. Ideally, you should also bring their familiar food bowls.

Towels, Blankets, and Toys

Cats can feel stressed and anxious in unfamiliar environments because they lack their own scent.

Place towels or blankets with your cat's scent in their carrier bag to create a comforting space for them. Also, bring their favorite toys.

Portable Cage

If your cat needs a designated space at your destination, a portable cage can be very convenient. Consider options that are lightweight and compact, like pop-up tents.

Cat Health Record

If your cat falls ill and needs to see a vet while you're away, knowing their usual condition can help with diagnosis. It's recommended to prepare a health record that summarizes your cat's weight, eating and urination habits, past illnesses, and vaccination history.

Regular Medication

If your cat takes any regular medication, don't forget to bring it. Also, if your cat has a chronic illness or gets car sick easily, it's a good idea to consult your veterinarian about traveling with them.

What are the modes of transportation when traveling home with a cat?

When traveling home with a cat, the points to note differ depending on whether you travel by car or by train. Let's check the specific points for each.

When Traveling by Car

Traveling home in your own car has the advantage of being able to transport your cat door-to-door. You can avoid crowds and are less likely to be exposed to extreme heat or cold.

However, a carrier bag or cage is still essential when traveling by car. Make sure it is securely fastened with a seatbelt. Do not hold your cat in your arms while driving.

It is surprisingly common for cats to jump out of windows or doors and escape when you stop for a break at a service area or similar. Also, if your cat gets into the driver's seat, it can lead to driving errors.

Keep your cat in their cage or carrier during travel and monitor them for car sickness. When giving them water or letting them use the litter box during travel, it's safer to use a harness and leash.

When Traveling by Train

You can take your cat on a train or Shinkansen by purchasing a luggage ticket (290 yen for JR). The advantage of traveling by train or Shinkansen is that you can move smoothly without getting caught in traffic jams. Car sickness is also less likely.

However, stations can be very crowded during peak holiday seasons like Obon and New Year's. In an environment with unfamiliar people and loud noises, cats can become stressed.

To help them feel less exposed, cover their carrier bag with a towel or blanket so they can't see outside. As with car travel, it's safest to use a harness and leash as a precaution against escape.

Also, the cost of a luggage ticket and the permissible size and weight of carrier bags vary by railway company. Be sure to check in advance.

Reference: JR Central "To Customers Bringing Pets"

Summary

Cats are highly sensitive to changes in their environment.

Their familiar home is their territory. Leaving their territory can cause them stress. Thinking of your cat, you might hesitate about whether to travel home together.

It is said that a healthy cat can be left alone for 1-2 nights without issues.

However, for longer periods, "traveling home together" is one option. As explained in this article, confirm the necessary items and precautions in advance and prepare thoroughly.

Depending on your cat's personality and age, it might be less stressful to leave them at a pet hotel or arrange for a pet sitter. Choose the best method to ensure your cat's comfort.

Author Profile