In Review: Cat Car Trip Tips, Lessons
As you know, we had a great time with the cats this past weekend at my brother’s place in Michigan.
Much went as expected; however, we also were reminded of and learned a few things along the way that I wanted to share with you:
Ellie under her carrier liner.
Make sure everyone uses the litter box before you leave: Usually the person who cleans the litter boxes has a general idea of when their kitties use it. Not to get too specific, but our kitties are rather regular — going in the morning after breakfast and in the evening.
However, on the day we left, I made the mistake of going about the morning as I would every morning — except feeding them their wet food breakfast. I thought it was a wise move — that way they would have less food in their bellies. Wrong.
This completely threw them off their schedule as they waited rather patiently until we left to be fed. Consequently, they didn’t go about their morning routine, i.e., using the litter box when they usually do.
We got to Michigan without an incident, but it was a concern throughout the trip — and as soon as we arrived I showed both of them the litter box. Neither one was interested. (Thank goodness!)
That said,
Be ready for an emergency litter box break: Now, I can’t tell you when this will be, but use your own judgement if your kitty is acting quite anxious and hasn’t used the box in a while. Come up with a bathroom-break plan if you think you’ll need it. We had our cat pan in the trunk, but I was ready to pull it out, put it on the back seat, shut all of the car doors (of course) and put Ellie in there, if needed. Thank goodness it didn’t come to that, but it was a very real concern. Read more…
A Successful Weekend
Well, I’m happy to report that we had a great weekend!
Ellie began the trip by climbing under her blankie.
For those new to the story, my husband and I decided to bring CG and Ellie to my brother’s house for his birthday this past weekend. The decision was based on the fact that CG has gone every previous year, and we thought Ellie needed some more car-travel experience.
Overall the trip to Michigan went well — CG was an old pro and handled it well. About 30 minutes into the trip he started meowing on and off, but he wasn’t too anxious and settled down eventually.
However, the trip was a bit more stressful for Ellie. She immediately hid under her carrier liner and blankie, and mewed a great deal. However, she responded positively to us looking at her, speaking to her, and petting her through the carrier door.
About halfway there we had a chorus of meows coming from the back seat, but it wasn’t anything to be concerned about. Both were relaxed and laying down — they just felt the need to constantly remind us that they were there! Read more…
Home Needed ASAP for CH Kitty + Siblings in Indianapolis
This morning I received an urgent note from CH Cat Adoption Specialist Deb Martin about a CH kitty, as well as her two siblings, in Indianapolis who need a home or rescue as soon as possible.
This is Wee, a 4-year-old CH kitty who needs a new home for several reasons. She’s currently living by herself in one room because the family’s dog continuously tries to attack her. That, combined with layoffs, and a pregnancy has forced the family to give up Wee. If an adopter or rescuer isn’t found, they’ll be forced to bring her to the local kill shelter. I don’t have much information, but Wee’s two siblings also need to be rescued.
Wee has been spayed and has an all-white, long coat. Her CH only impacts her hind legs, but she can get around well and eats on her own. She can use the litter box, but sometimes makes a mess.
Wee’s owners are willing to drive her to her adopter/rescuer, out of state if need be. Wee will come with her litter box, food and bowls.
If you’re interested in Wee and her siblings, please contact me and I’ll put you in touch with Suzanne.
Meet Moby
I absolutely love learning about other folks’ CH cats, because no matter how many stories I hear, they’re all different and so special in their own ways. So, to say Moby is no different makes his story sound common — but I assure you, it’s just as very special as any other CH cat’s.
Moby sounds like quite the special little one — and he’s holding true to his namesake. His pet parent, Sharon, was kind enough to share his story with us, and I hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I do!
What is your cat’s name?
Moby. My husband felt the kitten needed to be named after someone he could look to for inspiration. My husband chose Moby Dick, as never gave up and was indefatigable in overcoming adversity.
Age?
Born early September 2011. This is a guess, as Moby is a rescue from a feral colony. I volunteer for Cat Rescue Maritimes in New Brunswick, Canada, a TNR (trap-neuter-return) group. Moby was found by the caregiver on a site where our organization performed TNR for 44 adult cats and rescued (for fostering and adoption) over 25 kittens. The caregiver had noticed the other kittens in this one litter were out running around but this little fellow was still with his mom. The caregiver brought the situation to our organization’s attention. I was the first responder to the call and took the kitten to a vet who diagnosed him with severe CH. Understanding he had special needs, my husband and I agreed to foster him. Of course, we fell in love very quickly!
How severe is his CH?
Based on your video, I would rate him as moderately severe. He had virtually no balance as a younger kitten and had to be held up to eat and drink. He was a true ‘tumble kitten’! But he is a very brave little fellow and has gained a lot of strength. He can now manage several steps before falling over and can climb onto fabric chairs and chesterfields. He runs like the wind (using the same principle that kids use in learning to ride bicycles – as long as there is momentum, you won’t fall over)! He loves to leap into or onto things.
And We’re Off!
First of all, a very happy birthday to my brother!
CG and Ellie recuperating after a weekend at Grandma's
Secondly, we’re so excited that we’re all (cats included!) able to spend the day with him. I’m so eager to see how our trip goes — and I can’t wait to report back!
Last weekend, I took the cats to “Grandma’s” (my mom’s) for a trial run. CG, who is accustomed to going there regularly since he was a kitten, was immediately at home. Ellie, however, had a bit more trouble.
The last time Ellie and CG stayed at Grandma’s was when my husband and I went to Costa Rica. I think the shock of a new environment and new people were a good deal for her, and although she did well over time, she’s still not completely comfortable there.
This time, I think she was happy to see I was staying with her, and by the morning of the second day, she was tumbling around happily and trilling often. She was still nervous about a few things, but for the most part she did beautifully.
So we’ll see how this weekend goes! We’re packed, prepared and ready to party!
Do you frequently take your CH cats on trips? How do they do? Please share in the comments!
What to Pack for a Trip with the Cats
As we look forward to our weekend trip with Ellie and CG, I wanted to start making a CH kitty travel list. Here are the things we plan to bring, along with several other recommendations for others who plan on traveling with their CH kitties:
Cat Carrier: This is essential. As tempting as it may be to let your kitty out in the car, it’s a safety issue for the both of you. You certainly don’t want to distract the driver, and odds are there will be many new smells, sounds and sights that can frighten your cat.
We have hard-shell carriers for each of our cats; they are large enough so our cats can move around in them a bit. Speaking of, you’ll want to put some sort of towel, carrier pad, or, in our case, their beds, on the floor of the carrier so your kitty is comfortable.
Food & Water: For weekend trips, I simply fill up a plastic zip-lock bag with the right amount of food — plus a little extra.
You also may want to consider bringing bottled water for your kitties. Instead of bottled water, you can fill up an old, clean gallon milk container with water from your tap. Sometimes a change in water (city water vs. well water, etc.) can impact your cat’s stomach.
Also remember to pack their food and water bowls, along with any wet food plates, forks, wet cat food can covers, probiotics, etc.
Medications: There are another essential that can be easy to forget — especially if they need to be kept in the refrigerator. Put a note out with the rest of your packed items so you don’t forget them. If they need to be kept cool, pack them with a cold pack.
Towel/Tray: Depending on how messy your kitty is, you may want to bring a towel or tray to put under her food and water bowls. Ellie’s a pro at stepping in her water dish, but keeping it on her tray usually contains the spill.
Litter Box: Another obvious one. Don’t forget the scoop, litter bags and a towel or another type of mat to put in front of the litter box to catch excess litter.
Ellie’s a litter-kicker, so I always bring along a tiny dust broom and pan to clean up her messes. I usually try to borrow my brother’s vacuum before we leave, too, so I make sure that we leave the area as clean (if not cleaner!) than we found it.
You may also need to bring additional litter depending on the length of your trip.
Beds, Blankets & Toys: These should be your cat’s favorite things that will make her feel comfortable and at home. CG has a favorite blanket and cat bed, and I’ll be bringing Ellie’s bed and her favorite toys, too. (Just a few, and remember which you bring so you won’t forget them!)
The not-so-obvious list: Read more…
Happy Valentine’s Day!
We just wanted to say thank you for reading this blog, and we hope you have a wonderful day!
Even if you’re not a fan of this sometimes-called “Hallmark holiday,” I think it’s a great reminder to be thankful and appreciative of the loved ones that surround you — even if they’re furry!
So take a minute to give your CH kitties an extra-special squeeze, and give them an extra treat or two for being the best little Valentines all-year round!
If you know of someone in your life who may need a little extra love and can care for a CH cat, please share these 10 Reasons to Adopt a CH Cat with them — and if they’re looking for a CH cat, you can direct them to our page of adoptable CH cats!
13 Things to Think About When Planning a Car Trip with Your Cat
Photo courtesy of Eric Rice
Traveling with your cat can be quite rewarding — but it can also be quite stressful for all involved.
Fortunately, during most trips we can leave our cats comfortably at home with a good sitter. However, there are other times when we simply want to bring them along — or need to, when moving, for example.
No matter what kind of car trip you have in mind, there are a number of things you should think about and consider before packing up Fluffy. Here are some suggestions, tips and tricks, and if you have your own, please share them in the comments!
Before you leave
- If your cat’s health has been a concern lately, consult your veterinarian to find out if she thinks your cat can handle a car trip. Even if your cat is a good traveler, the stress of traveling and being away from home may complicate a health issue. Your vet may recommend a mild tranquilizer if your cat is particularly nervous about travelling.
- Check the condition of your cat carrier. Depending on the length of the trip, you may want to purchase a larger, hard plastic carrier so your cat can easily stand up and move around in it. Make sure it’s well-ventilated and clean; place a towel or cat bed in it so your cat is more comfortable.
- Once you have your carrier, keep it out in your home for a few days so your cat becomes comfortable with it. If your cat won’t even consider approaching it, try creating positive associations with the carrier by placing her toys or favorite treats in there.
- If you have time, try taking your cat out on a few trial rides around your neighborhood. Reward her with a few treats and snuggles when you get home, so she sees that traveling can be a positive experience.
- Check for emergency vet clinics along your route. You’ll never know when you’ll need one; and God forbid, if something should happen, you’ll be prepared. (Don’t forget your cat’s medical and vaccination records, along with other important items to pack — story goes live Thursday!) Read more…
Looking Forward to a Weekend Trip with Our Cats
For the past few years, my family has driven out to my brother’s place in Michigan for his birthday. Every year that we’ve gone, CG has come too. He’s a great little traveler (for the most part!) and absolutely LOVES being at my brother’s place.
CG living the life
This year my husband and I had a decision to make: Now that we have Ellie, should we bring both cats or leave them at home? We love our kitties, but would two be too many?
We ultimately decided to bring both, as Ellie is not the biggest fan of her carrier (thanks to one too many vet visits), and she consequently gets nervous in the car.
She’s also still learning about being brave around new people — although she generally warms up to them in moments. So, we thought that this would be a good opportunity for her — plus we couldn’t deny CG his favorite trip!
However, this clearly means that a weekend getaway will now be a bit more complicated. Traveling with your cat can be a joy, but sometimes it can be quite stressful for everyone.
And I know what you’re thinking — how complicated can it be? You’re used to traveling with one cat, does a second really make a difference? In our case, yes. Ellie’s CH is more severe than CG’s, which results in a few more concerns and items to be packed.
So for the next few days, I’ll be listing some travel tips, packing lists, etc. for a trip with your CH cat. Of course everything will vary depending on how you’re traveling, the length of your trip, your destination and more, but I hope they will at least provide some good reminders.
Do you travel with your CH cat? Where do you go and how does he do? Please share in the comments!
Meet Hippa & Nanako
Nanako & Hippa
Those familiar with Hippa and Nanako are also familiar with their pet parent, Elise, who has been a credit to the cerebellar hypoplasia community. Elise played a major role with helping Ellie’s sisters, and she has also authored these wonderful CH educational fliers. Now on to the kitties who inspire her:
How old are they?
Hippa is 11 years old; Nanako is 1 year 3 months old.
How severe are their CH?
Hippa has mild CH; Nanako has moderate CH.
Do they have certain limitations?
Hippa pretty much stays upright all the time, can eat and use the litterbox standing, and can jump a foot or two off the ground. She hunches her back/back legs when she walks, and loses her balance if she lifts any of her legs off the ground for more than a couple of seconds.
Nanako can sit up when she eats wet food with her legs splayed, but lays down to eat dry food. She’s a messy eater, but is getting much better with time. She lays down to use the litterbox and occasionally poops on rug next to the box. She’s pretty good about getting down from furniture and is an expert at climbing up on the furniture. Her favorite place to hang out is on the computer chair (she likes to make it spin around) and she recently climbed to the top of a tall cat tree all on her own! She can’t jump up; she jumps out or towards things to play though.
