Should You Take Your Cats on International Travel? Weighing the Pros and Cons

The idea of traveling the world with your beloved cat can be alluring. However, before you pack your pet cat into a carrier and set off on an international adventure, you need to carefully consider the potential risks and challenges. This article will explore the pros and cons of taking your cat on an international trip, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

Prep for a Safe and Comfortable Journey

There are many options available to ensure your cat travels comfortably and safely. For instance, pet-friendly backpacks and carriers can provide your feline friend with the necessary support and protection during transit. When faced with an urgent business trip that necessitated taking my cat, I found that a well-designed cat carrier made the journey bearable for both of us. Despite my initial fears, the three-day trip to Boston turned out surprisingly well. However, this experience led me to reconsider the broader implications of taking your cat on a journey.

Financial Considerations and Potential Challenges

Before embarking on an international trip, you must consider several key factors. Would you be able to afford the necessary expenses? How would your cat feel about the journey? Which countries would you be traveling to, and what are the quarantine restrictions there? Are your cat's vaccinations up to date? How old is your cat, and how will you manage the travel arrangements, such as feeding and housing?

Intended travel routes and locations are also important to consider. Different parts of the world have different attitudes towards pets. For example, a cat like mine would have faced a 3-day hoarse ordeal flying from Labrador to Ontario. During sea travel, your cat could suffer from seasickness, making it difficult to keep food down. Other challenges include paperwork, cargo fees, and potential quarantine periods, which can extend for months and may result in your cat being confiscated or euthanized.

A Personal Experience and Expert Opinion

From my limited experience, flying a cat can be extremely stressful. In the 1980s, I had to move my cat, Barraclaugh, from Labrador to Ontario, and the experience was not pleasant. The cold temperatures and isolation in the cargo hold left Barraclaugh distressed. Even well-known personalities, such as Meghan Markle, have faced challenges when traveling with their pets, as her dogs were placed in quarantine for three months. These examples highlight how difficult it can be to travel internationally with a cat.

Stan Giles and Herman Peters offered a resounding "NO" to the idea of taking cats on world tours. They emphasized that it would be impractical and unkind to your cat. Proper care during the journey, including unforeseen veterinary visits and adequate food and housing, requires significant planning. Cats are typically territorial and enjoy roaming freely in their homes, so being confined in carriers or cages would not be a positive experience for them.

Alternative Options

Given all the challenges, it's often best to leave your cat at home or find a trustworthy person to care for them. You could arrange for someone to look after your cat while you are away, perhaps by paying in advance for food, litter, and any other necessities. Alternatively, if you must break your bond with your feline companion, consider placing your cat in a no-kill shelter where it can find a new home. This way, you can still explore the world without the added burden of worrying about your cat's well-being.

While writing articles about cats is my primary passion, I try to respond to questions when I can. I hope this article has provided you with valuable insights to help you decide whether taking your cat on an international trip is feasible and ethical. Safe travels!