Traveling With Your Dog or Cat: The Essentials for Calm, Safe Journeys

A trip with your pet can be a joy or a headache, and the difference usually comes down to preparation. Dogs and cats experience travel very differently. Many dogs enjoy the adventure, while most cats would prefer to stay exactly where they are.

Here's a practical, species-specific guide to getting ready, whether you're heading to the vet, visiting family or going on a longer trip.

At Aurelius Vicente, our Pet Essentials collection covers the everyday basics that make journeys easier. Let's get you packed.

Before Anything Else: Plan Ahead

Check whether your pet should travel. Some pets, such as very young, elderly, ill or highly anxious animals, may be better off staying with a trusted sitter. Ask your vet if you're unsure.

Visit your vet. Check that vaccinations and parasite prevention are up to date, and ask about travel health advice for your destination.

Check identification. Make sure your pet's microchip details are current, and that they wear an ID tag with your phone number. Consider adding a temporary tag with your destination contact details.

Check the rules. Airlines, trains, hotels and some countries have specific requirements for pets, including paperwork, carriers and breed restrictions. Confirm them well in advance.

Check accommodation. Make sure it welcomes pets and understand its rules.

Traveling With a Dog

Car Travel

Secure your dog. An unrestrained dog can be hurt in a sudden stop and can distract the driver. Use a crash-tested harness attached to a seat belt, a secured travel crate or a suitable barrier. Never let a dog ride with its head out of the window or on your lap while driving.

Plan for comfort. Provide a familiar blanket or bed and make sure the car is well ventilated.

Take regular breaks. Stop every couple of hours for a toilet break, a short walk and a drink of water.

Never leave your dog in a parked car. Temperatures can become dangerous within minutes, even on mild days.

Prevent motion sickness. If your dog gets car sick, ask your vet for advice. Short practice trips can help build positive associations.

Feed sensibly. Avoid a big meal right before travel. Your vet can advise on timing.

Dog Travel Kit

• Food for the whole trip, plus a little extra
• Water and a portable bowl
• Lead and a spare, plus a well-fitted collar or harness
• ID tag and microchip details
• Waste bags
• A familiar bed or blanket
• A few favorite toys or chews
• Any medication, with instructions
• Vet records and your vet's phone number
• A towel
• A first aid kit suitable for pets, if your vet recommends one

Traveling With a Cat

Getting Ready

Use a proper carrier. A sturdy, well-ventilated carrier that your cat can stand up and turn around in. Leave it out at home for days or weeks beforehand, with a blanket and occasional treats, so it becomes a familiar, safe place.

Line it well. A soft, absorbent layer with a piece of familiar bedding helps your cat feel secure.

Secure the carrier in the car. Place it on the back seat with a seat belt, or wedge it firmly so it can't slide. Never leave a cat loose in a moving vehicle.

Cover the carrier. A light cover or towel can help reduce stress by limiting visual stimulation, while keeping ventilation.

Keep the car calm. Quiet, comfortable temperatures and no sudden loud noises.

Never leave your cat in a parked car.

Staying Somewhere New

Set up a safe room. Give your cat a small, quiet space with a litter tray, water, food and a hiding spot. Let them explore the rest slowly.

Keep windows and doors secure. An unfamiliar environment can lead to escapes.

Stick to routine. Feed at regular times and keep litter habits consistent.

Cat Travel Kit

• A secure, well-ventilated carrier
• Food for the whole trip, plus extra
• Water and a shallow bowl
• A portable litter tray and familiar litter, plus bags
• Familiar bedding or a blanket
• A breakaway collar with ID, and microchip details
• A few toys
• Any medication, with instructions
• Vet records and your vet's number
• A harness and lead, if your cat is trained to use one

Talk to your vet. If your cat becomes very distressed while traveling, your vet can discuss options.

Flying and Longer Trips

Check the airline's pet policy early. Some allow small pets in the cabin in approved carriers, while others require cargo transport. Policies vary, and some breeds, especially flat-faced dogs and cats, may face restrictions or additional risks.

Consider alternatives. Driving, or a trusted pet sitter, may be safer and calmer for some pets.

Don't sedate without veterinary advice. Sedation can be risky for pets, especially during air travel.

Acclimatize beforehand. Practice with the carrier or crate in advance.

On Arrival

Let your pet settle. Give them time and space to adjust.

Check the surroundings. Look for hazards such as open windows, toxic plants, cleaning products and gaps they could escape through.

Keep dogs on a lead in unfamiliar areas until they're comfortable.

Keep a routine. Familiar feeding and exercise times help.

Signs of Travel Stress

Dogs: panting, drooling, pacing, whining, trembling, vomiting, refusing food.

Cats: hiding, crying, panting, drooling, vomiting, urinating or defecating in the carrier, dilated pupils.

If your pet shows severe distress, difficulty breathing or collapse, seek veterinary help immediately.

Safe Travels

A bit of planning transforms a stressful trip into a manageable one. Choose the right gear, take your pet's individual temperament into account and keep safety first.

Ready to prepare? Explore the Pet Essentials collection at Aurelius Vicente.