How long are cats OK in their car carriers?

Question

I have to go to my family reunion this coming weekend and it's a 6 hour car ride. The hotel I am staying at is fine with pets, so I know it's OK to bring her. The alternative is to board her (and they put her in one of those tiny cat cages) or leave her home alone with someone stopping by to feed her (but she's very social and I don't think she'd do well by herself). So the only drawback, I think, is the long car ride. I have had her in the car for 2 hours at a time before, and she has done fine, but I don't know if 6 hours is too much. Has anyone taken their cat on a long trip like this? Any advice? Thanks!

Answer 1

You might find DryFur pet carrier pads for her carrier helpful just in case she does end up having an accident, it will dry instantly and she will not get wet at all, and you will not need worry. If not and she has a wetting accident she will never forgive you locking her in a cage wet and stinky until you find a rest stop,.

Answer 2

I've taken trips with my cat many times. If your going to be in the car for six hours,she'll be fine.But make sure when you stop to pee,you let her go too.That's the only advice I have to offer. Oh, and since she's so social, let her ride close to you so you can talk to her.

Answer 3

Your cat will be much much more happy in her own home.  If she's like any other cat she hates her carriesr.  The long trip in the car, and the strange hotel will really upset a cat. Have you thought about what will happen if the cat gets scared in the hotel and bolts for the door?  Does your cat howl and cry in its carrier? Do you want to listen to that for six hours?  

Leave her home.

Answer 4

Depends on your cat

Answer 5

I've never taken a cat on a trip for longer than around 3 hours. But I've read that cats can take longer trips; however, as someone said previously, it depends on your cat and the conditions of the trip. I've read that cats can go on trips for up to 7-8 hours and that they can wait to go to the litter box for that time. Make sure that the carrier is comfortable.  

Here's an informative article that gives you several tips on traveling with your cat, including planning rest stops and preventing car sickness: http://www.thecatsite.com/Care/13/Travel...