When we think about camping with pet animals, pet dogs usually pop up in our minds. However, many people like to have a feline camping partner because cats love to have adventures and love going outdoors.
If you are planning the next trip with your feline champ and are confused about how to take her, then keep reading because this article is for you! We have covered some tips to help you have fun while camping with your cat!
Tips for Camping with Your Cat
Make Your Campsite Pet-Friendly
The first and foremost thing you need to ensure is that the campsite you visit is pet-friendly. It would be best to contact the campsite in your area and inquire about the policies for cats.
Finding a pet-friendly camping area is imperative. However, some come up with a potential downside that sometimes is unavoidable. If your chosen campsite is pet-friendly, there are more likely some other pet dogs and cats present there.
Help Your Cat to Get Used to Camping
If you have an indoor cat that spends most of her time indoors, don’t suddenly force her to go camping, as it can lead to your cat becoming traumatized by the camping experience. Moreover, you are more likely to end up ruining your adventure!
Weeks before going camping, help your indoor cat adjust slowly to the outdoors. Take your cat for a walk, as this will help her adapt to the outdoor environment. Gradually, introduce her camping tent to make her familiar and transition into camping.
Be Aware of Weather Conditions
Before taking your cat to camp, you need to check the weather forecast of the campsite. Do not ever camp with your cat in extreme temperatures, whether it is excessively cold or hot, as they both are extremely dangerous for your feline friend.
You should think about the type of cat you have. If your cat has a long and thick coat, then she is more likely to handle the cold. But these cats may suffer more during a heatwave. Only camp on the ideal weather to avoid any temperature-related complications.
Set a Space for Your Cat
While going camping with your cat, make sure to create the best space for her. That specific space will make your cat feel at home, and more importantly, she will feel safe and secure.
Your cat might feel well in your tent; however, she might also not feel comfortable inside the tent. If this is the case with you, it will be better to allow her to enjoy herself in her own space.
Take Plenty of Water and Food
Your cat will not feel less hungry while camping with you, and she will want her food and water at the exact time of her home routine. Therefore, it is essential to bring plenty of items for your cat during the trip.
If the campsite weather is hot, keep your cat hydrated and provide her plenty of water and food. Find a way and space to allow your cat to access food and water whenever she needs it.
Choose a Litter Spot
A litter spot is also essential for your cats, like food and water. Set up your tent in a way that should offer your cat a designated litter box spot. You will be surprised to find your cat happy and comfortable going to her bathroom or behind the trees because cats like their privacy.
Get a Leash
A leash is an excellent option to carry with you on a camping trip. Many think that leashes are only associated with dogs, but this also works well with cats despite this perception.
Camping with a cat includes the danger of wandering off while you are not aware. Once your cat is out of your sight, then she could get into danger. It would be best to restrict that specific area with the leash to avoid that. Hook up the leash and tie it to a tree or a picnic table.
A leash will help you keep your cat in one space while busy carrying the other objects. Taking your cat on a short walk or hikes is also beneficial.
Buy a Cat Backpack
Even if you use a leash, your selected hike can become too strenuous for your cat. Exposure to elements, rocky terrain, or long distance is detrimental when camping or hiking with your cat. Therefore, try getting a cat backpack as it is ideal to use it as a typical bag. You will not have to use both hands to support your cat; your cat will enjoy it at your back. If you can’t find any cat backpack, consider a cat carrier, as it can also work well.
Keep an Eye on Your Cat
If you have a responsible cat, then you can provide her with a chance to get invisible from your eyesight. However, if she is irresponsible, make sure you always keep an eye on her while camping!
Sometimes camping brings some unexpected dangers to you and your cat. And while you all do your best to overcome those dangers, some may remain unforeseen. Therefore, always keep your cat with you and keep an eye on her. If you leave your tent for any reason, don’t forget to take her with you wherever you go.
Be Prepared to Find Your Cat If She Gets Lost
If your cat still gets lost after keeping an eye on her, then be prepared to search for your companion. Finding a cat in the forest can be a daunting task, and there are countless places where your little cat could hide. If it is nighttime, then the task will become even more challenging.
Start searching for her in obvious areas like holes in rock or trees. If your cat gets lost during nighttime, then use the torch or cell phone flashlight to illuminate your cat’s eyes.
Wrapping Up
Now, as you are aware of all the basics of going camping with your cat, let’s have fun with your meow partner and head out for camping! Happy camping!
