Traveling with cats can be quite a challenge without the proper preparations like a quality cat carrier or small pet crate. Whether its driving to the vet, across the country, or traveling by plane, there are steps you can take to ensure your furry baby is as comfy and safe as possible.

At one point or another in your cat's life, you'll have to drive them to the vet. Though it might be tempting to just let your cat loose in the car, doing so can cause your cat to have vulnerable feelings and panic. This could lead to something as horrible as the cat causing an accident. So, the safest and most comfortable thing you can do for your cat is to get them a cat carrier or pet crate. The first thing to do is make the carrier or crate itself more comfy by placing a towel or blanket inside and making sure there's always fresh water for them to drink. Before taking them on any kind of travel, leave the crate or carrier open in your home to get your cat to sleep in it. Try occasionally feeding them and giving them treats inside it, too. Another good technique to use is to take your kitty on short drives before taking them to the vet or on long travel. This way, they won't associate the carrier or crate with a traumatic experience.

An important topic to cover is the use of medicine such as Dramamine to calm your cat for traveling in a cat carrier or small pet crate. Many vets agree that Dramamine can be effective to calm cats and prevent motion sickness. A proper dose is about 5 to 12 milligrams every 8 hours, or you can just break a tablet into 4 quarters. Give them the first quarter 30 minutes before the trip starts because once they get motion sick or panicky, it's too late for the medicine to work. Remember that this only applies to car travel. DO NOT give cats any sedative before air travel.

For those traveling by air, it's important to remember that airlines have specific rules concerning cat carriers and pet crates and what types are acceptable. One basic rule is that the cat is not allowed on your lap (in or out of the carrier or crate) at any time during the flight since it could escape and cause minor problems. For kitties who
get to travel in a carrier, a good choice is the small Sherpa Ultimate Pet Carrier. It has everything you need to make your cat comfy.

Consult with your vet before giving your cat and medications. The views represented in this article are not necessarily shared by Little Pampered Pets.