Cats are pretty independent and don't relish being told what to do. So, to be forced into a cat basket and travelled around in a metal box is not generally something they look forward to. To make matters worse, they usually wind up at a place with unpleasant smells and an aura of fear, the VET. Their only reward being a sharp needle and having their mouth prised open.

Cats are pretty independent and don't relish being told what to do. So, to be forced into a cat basket and travelled around in a metal box is not generally something they look forward to. To make matters worse, they usually wind up at a place with unpleasant smells and an aura of fear, the VET. Their only reward being a sharp needle and having their mouth prised open.

So we need to try and help the experience pass as easily as we can for our cats.

Firstly, unlike dogs, cats can be transported in a basket. However, to bring this out just before you want to go and try and get your pet inside might, over time, mean your cat will associate the basket with the vet. I find that the process of getting your cat into the basket is made a lot easier if you bring the basket out at few days before and place it where your cat will see it every day, I find that the cats get used to the basket and no longer see it as a form of torture. Moreover, my cats actually see it as a sanctuary, and it can be more of a problem to get them out of it at the other end! This being the case it's useful to have a basket where you can take the complete top off, for easy access.

Cats can have different ways of handling stress. There are cats that will go quite quiet and withdrawn, however, others will start howling as soon as the car starts rolling. On the whole, it's the sensation of movement that's beyond their control that upsets them most.

For this reason it's important to secure the basket in the car with a seat belt, to avoid undue jolting, and keep movement to a minimum. Drive more considerately as well, be aware of junctions and roundabouts, so that you can anticipate them and negotiate them as smoothly as possible and avoid those sudden changes in direction. Fresh air is important too, so keep the car well ventilated.

Some cats will suffer motion sickness, if this is the case get the correct medication from your vet. Whatever you do don't use human medicines, as these will harm your pet. If your cat does get quite stressed when travelling, you can use a spray called Feliway in the basket and car to help calm your cat. It's can also be used anywhere where your cat may be stressed, cats living in homes with other cats, building works or going away on holiday, all can be major causes of stress in a cat. Cats are happiest with a routine, anything that disrupts this can cause stress.