Expert: Norman Auspitz - 9/2/2009

Question
In a month we will be moving our 4 cats across the country.  We will have a vehicle that is large enough for them to move around and to have water and a litter box out at all times.  We will spend 2 nights in hotels so it will be very stressful for them as it is a long trip.  I don't like tranquilizing my animals as I have found that they become somewhat agitated while under the influence.  I plan to use rescue remedy but is there anything else that I can use to help them stay calm and as relaxed as possible?  One of my boys is susceptible to bladder infections when he is overly stressed and I want to try and prevent that happening.  Any suggestions or practical advice that you can offer for a long road trip would be appreciated.

Another question that I have is regarding the certificate of vet inspection that I have heard that they need.  In your opinion is that really needed for a road trip? I know the airlines may require it but we are not flying.  Can my animals be removed by authorities if we travel across state lines without the necessary certificates?  My reluctance to get this is to avoid unnecessary expense and to avoid stressing my cats with vet visits so close to the stress of the move.

Answer
Debbie,

We have traveled long distances with our cats and they do fine.  Your idea of having litter pans and water in your vehicle is a good one.  To make life easy for hotels, you may want to get a baby cabana from Babies R Us.  Use these to tent your cats with litter pan and water dishes, wither singly (two tens) or together (one tent), depending on how ell they get along. This should be done so that they cannot get themselves into trouble in the hotel room.  It sure won't hurt to have the rescue remedy, but the biggest stressor when you arrive is that you are no longer in your home territory.  For cats susceptible to urinary tract problems, distilled water for their water bowl is much better to use than tap water or any other kind of bottled water.

A health certificate with the date of a rabies shot would be all you would need.  Most states require rabies vaccinations, especially for cats coming in from out of state.  I would suggest getting an adjuvant free rabies vaccine and having the vet give it in the thigh muscle of one of the hind legs. It is doubtful any state other than California or Arizona would have inspection stations set up.  Your vet can tell you the regulations for whatever state you are traveling to as a final destination.  You could always check the USDA web site, although it is not always easy to find stuff on that web site.

Bon voyage and best regards... Norm.