moving to another state
Question:
i'll be moving from NYC to Tucson with my kitty. we'll have to stay in a hotel for a few days, while i check out some apartments. what's the best way to transport her and making her comfortable. should buy a litter box there, when arrive? there are some hotels that allow pets, so it's ok to keep her there. she had all her shots this winter. do i need to have them repeated for the airline? the flight is about 7 hrs, so she won't be able to eat, drink, or use a litter box for almost 10 hrs. is that something that's dangerous for her? all help will be greatly appreciated.
Answer:
Meep has traveled much longer than that on an airplane (14+ hours), an we've regularly traveled with her in a car all day. She's never shown a desire to use the box (we used to carry one that she could access during breaks) or eat, and only rarely would deign to drink - she prefers to wait until we get to a hotel. On a flight, usually they're too scared to want to eat or drink, and due to the prospect of airsickness it's probably best they don't, anyway. As for the litterbox issue, one suggestion I've heard is to line the bottom of the box, under the padding, with dog piddle pads - that way if they have to go, it's soaked up by that. Meep has a vetfleece pad, so I think that allows any wetness to sink down, and won't let it back up. Good luck with your travel. Incidentally, in case you were considering it, advice runs to NOT tranquilizing your cat for travel. We've never done that with Meep and she gets through it just fine. I would consult Vet regarding tranquilization, in the past - I have used ace and recommend this medication. It reduces motion sickness and helps cat cope with the stress of the journey - ask your Vet for help with this. If shots are up to date then your vet might be able to write you and inter-state travel health certificate (USDA certificate) - most states require valid rabies shot for this. This will be handy just in case. I have found most hotels accept pets - I like comfort inn.....often though - they stick you in the smoking room - which is NOT fun if you are not a smoker. If you are planning to leave your cat somewhere while you are seeking permanent living space in your new city - you should probably "board" cat upon arrival. Kitty will be safe and you will not have to fear hotel/motel folks accidentally letting cat out of room while you are not there. That would be horrible - so I recommend boarding. Many Vets board cats especially if it is up to date on shots. Find out what vets are in the area where you are going - and then check in kitty when you arrive - it will only be temporary and much safer - plus then - you will not have to stay in a pet room at hotel. Perhaps your veterinarian can recommend another veterinarian in the new place that would board your kitty. Lastly, please make sure that your cat is ID'd before your trip. I recommend microchip as well as id on the kitty such as a tag on the collar etc.... I don't understand that question. Why wouldn't you buy a litter box? :) Hotels that allow pets shouldn't have a problem with you having a litter box in the room. I would put an old, large bath towel under it to collect some of the litter. there are some hotels that allow pets, There are hotel chains that accept pets, and not all the rooms are smoking rooms. Make a reservation first, and let them know you have a cat. They often make a one-time charge for the pet in your room. Keeping the cat in the carrier while you are out is a good idea, and also put a label on the door that there is a pet, please do not disturb, so housekeeping doesn't mistakenly let your cat out. There are only certain carriers that are approved by the airlines. You can put a covered litter box in the carriers, with water a bowl that won't tip, or use one of those bottles that attach to the side of the carrier/door. You can get one at a pet supply store. Current thinking is to NOT tranquilize your cat during travel. It may complain and talk, but that's just fine. Be sure to let the airlines know you have a cat and be sure the carrier has your name, the cat's name and a destination contact name and phone number on it. Be sure to mark the carrier with "Live Animals" on the outside in clear block letters - there are labels available.
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