Author: Shop My Cats Finds

Cat Travel Checklist: 5 Things You Should Always Bring 🐱✈️

Travelling with a cat can feel like a challenge. Unlike dogs, cats are creatures of habit. They love their routines, their favourite spots at home, and familiar smells. Taking them out of their comfort zone—into a car, train, or plane—can be stressful. But with the right preparation and the right items, you can make the journey much smoother, both for you and for your furry friend.

The first and most important thing to bring is a sturdy cat carrier. This isn’t just a way to transport your cat, it’s their safe zone when everything else feels unfamiliar. Look for a carrier that has plenty of ventilation, secure zippers, and soft padding inside. If you plan to fly, make sure it’s airline-approved. For example, the Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier is lightweight, cosy, and easy to carry. One tip is to keep the carrier open at home before your trip with a blanket or toy inside so your cat sees it as a safe place instead of something scary.

Another must-have is a portable litter box. Even if your trip is only a few hours, some cats may need it, and having one on hand reduces stress for both of you. A collapsible litter box is perfect because it’s lightweight, foldable, and easy to set up in a hotel room or at a friend’s house. The Collapsable Travel Litter Box is a simple solution, and if you bring a small bag of your cat’s usual litter, the familiar smell will make them more comfortable using it.

Hydration is another key part of travelling with your cat. Stress and new environments often make cats reluctant to eat or drink. Bringing a spill-proof water bottle or a small portable fountain helps keep them hydrated on the go. The Cat Water Dispenser for Travel is a convenient option because it combines the bottle and bowl in one, making it easy to offer water during breaks without worrying about spills.

To help your cat relax, pack a comfort item from home, like a favourite blanket or a small bed. The smell of home is very calming for cats, and having a familiar texture to curl up on during the journey makes a huge difference. A travel-sized option like the Plush Travel Cat Bed is easy to carry and doubles as a resting spot when you arrive at your destination. A good trick is to rub the blanket on your cat a day or two before you travel so it carries their scent.

Finally, don’t forget a few toys. Cats get bored quickly, and boredom often means stress. Pack small, lightweight toys they already love, or something simple to keep them entertained. The Interactive Feather Wand Toy is a great option because it’s fun, easy to carry, and helps burn off a little energy during stops. Avoid noisy or electronic toys that could scare them — keep it quiet and familiar.

Traveling with a cat will never be quite as simple as putting on a leash and heading out the door, but it also doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation, you can turn what might feel like a stressful journey into something safe and comfortable for your pet — and less stressful for you as well. A sturdy carrier provides security, a portable litter box ensures peace of mind, and access to fresh water keeps your cat healthy on the go. Adding a soft blanket or bed brings the comfort of home with you, while a few familiar toys help reduce anxiety and boredom.

The key is planning ahead and packing these essentials so your cat has everything they need in a new environment. Whether you’re traveling across town or heading on a longer trip, these simple items can make all the difference in your cat’s experience. When your cat feels calm and secure, you’ll enjoy the journey more too — turning travel from a challenge into an opportunity to share new experiences together.