As military spouses, we are aware of our inevitable new orders for a duty station across the country! This can be terrifying for pet owners because transporting them across the country is an entirely different ballgame.
While I’m no veternarian (always consult with a professional if you have concerns), I have now traveled almost 8,000 miles across the country in the car with my cats (three to be exact).
Here are some tips and tricks for fellow cat owners:
Make sure they have collars on
If you are anything like me, when I am home my cats do not wear collars. BUT! When we are traveling all cats have collars with their name, my name, and phone number. This is very important because when traveling long distances with animals (or just in general) car accidents can happen. The last thing you want is to get into an accident and your pet does not have a way to be identified if they slip out. Or even stopping for gas and one slips out the door! Make sure to carry their latest vet and vaccine records.
Let them free roam
My general rule of thumb when traveling with our cats is we let them free-roam the car. One of them will come curled up in the passenger’s lap, one will look out the back window, and the other will usually stay in the crate anyway. We have noticed that they are a lot calmer when they have the ability to be where they feel most comfortable.
Save space for a litter box
When PCSing your car is usually packed to the brim so it is important to save space for a litter box. Yes, it will be stinky when they use it but it is better to give them the ability to use the bathroom when they need it, especially on long trips. They have to pee and poop just like us! Our rule is we clean it after every use in order for the car to remain smell-free.
Be sure to book a cat-friendly hotel
Several hotels advertise themselves as “pet friendly” but in the fine print, they specify only dogs. We tend to book with hotels owned by Wyndham or Hampton. Also be aware most hotels charge pet fees, anywhere from $25-$75.
Offer food and water often
Every time we stop for gas we push water and food in front of our cats. They do not like eating or drinking while the car is running so at every gas station stop, we pull it out for them.
PCSing can be tough especially when throwing animals into the mix! Just remember the end goal is to get to your new duty station in one piece. You got this! For more tips and resources on PCSing, click here.