CAT BACKPACKS AND TRAVELING WITH YOUR FELINE

Interested in traveling with your cat directly by your side? Cat carriers can be scary. So, when most cats see their cat carrier come out, it’s no surprise they make a bee-line to their most reliable hiding spot! Instead, consider a cat backpack so your feline can be as on-the-go as you are! There are a few things you should know and be prepared for before pouncing on the backpack trend with your cat:

PURCHASING A GOOD CAT BACKPACK

There are a lot of things to consider when searching for the perfect cat backpack. Don’t rush your purchase — take time to do your research to make sure you find the puuuurfect backpack for your feline!

  • Transparency and Hiding — Don’t purchase a completely transparent backpack for your cat. Your cat should be able to have the opportunity to hide in the backpack if they want to and a completely transparent bag can be extremely overwhelming. Instead, consider a backpack lined with mesh, so your feline can decide if and when they want to be seen.
  • Ventilation and Size — It is very important to ensure there are lots of holes to circulate fresh air while your cat is in their backpack. Additionally, cat owners should also make sure the backpack is big enough for their cat to fit in comfortably and move around freely. Be sure the cat backpack is big enough for your cat to turn around and stand-up in while zipped up and closed.
  • Fabric and Durability — A good cat backpack should be sturdy and not flimsy! Your cat will thank you in advance if the backpack fabric is waterproof. The water resistant material should also be lightweight to keep your cat cool while they’re inside it.

INTRODUCING YOUR CAT TO THEIR BACKPACK

Just like any other new thing you introduce to your cat, it will take time for your cat to get used to the idea of their backpack. There are a few things you can do to help with the introduction. These tips can also be used for introducing your car to their cat carrier!

  • Don’t Force Your Cat to be with the Backpack — Never force anything new on your cat, especially a cat backpack or carrier. Instead, leave the backpack out and allow your cat to wander up to it and sniff it on their own time. Another tip is to wear the backpack a few times so your cat will smell your scent on it while they sniff it on their own time.
  • Make it Fun — Hide a few treats inside the backpack or in compartments on the inside or outside. If your cat doesn’t seem to mind being inside the backpack with their treats, try to close the backpack for a few minutes at a time. However, if your cat wants to get out, immediately let it out.
  • Start with Short Trips — Once your cat is comfortable being inside the backpack, put it on and take a walk around the house or the backyard to get them used to the change in movement. Follow up the short walk by rewarding your cat with their favorite treat! After a couple successful short trips, your cat should be ready to take a longer walk/hike, car ride, or bike ride with you in their new cat backpack.

CAT BACKPACK SAFETY

Cat backpacks can actually help your cat with any anxiety or stress they may have while traveling to places where there are many unfamiliar smells and sounds,  like the veterinarian’s office. However, there are some additional things we want you to keep in mind if you plan to purchase a cat backpack.

  • Don’t Confuse your Cat — If you have a child that is attending school or college make sure their backpack is put somewhere that is out of your cat’s reach. This will prevent your cat from mistaking your child’s backpack for their own and will keep them safe from any dangerous objects like scissors, pencils, or leftover snacks that are likely to be found in a school backpack.
  • Always Use a Cat Carrier for Long Trips — If your cat is traveling with you for an extensive period of time, do not use a cat backpack. It is impossible to include cat litter, water, and food in the backpack with your cat comfortably. Instead, invest in a large cat carrier that’s approved for extensive travel and one that can allow your cat to move around freely.

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