Maine Coons are adaptable cats, but car travel can still be stressful without proper preparation. Whether you're heading to the vet or picking up your new kitten from Dashing Coons, these tips will make the journey smoother for everyone.

Start with Carrier Training

The carrier should never be a "surprise" that only appears on vet day. Leave it out in your home as a permanent piece of furniture. Put a soft blanket inside, place treats near and inside it, and let your cat explore it on their own terms. Over time, they'll associate it with comfort rather than dread.

Short Practice Trips

Before any long journey, take several short practice drives. Start with just sitting in the parked car with the carrier, then progress to a 5-minute drive, then 15 minutes, and so on. This desensitizes your cat to the sounds, motion, and smells of the car gradually.

Carrier Placement

Secure the carrier with a seatbelt on the back seat. Never place it in the front seat where airbags could deploy. Covering the carrier with a light blanket can reduce visual stimulation and help some cats feel more secure. Others prefer to see out — observe what works for your cat.

Temperature & Ventilation

Never leave a cat in a parked car, even briefly. Cars heat up dangerously fast. Keep the car climate-controlled throughout the journey. Avoid direct air conditioning vents blowing into the carrier.

Feeding Before Travel

Withhold food for 2–3 hours before travel to reduce the risk of motion sickness. Water is fine. If your cat has a history of severe travel anxiety, speak with your vet about anti-nausea medication or mild sedatives for longer trips.

Calming Aids

Feliway spray (a synthetic feline pheromone) applied to the carrier 30 minutes before travel can reduce anxiety. Calming treats with L-theanine or valerian are another option. For very anxious cats, your vet may prescribe gabapentin or other medications for travel days.

Long Road Trips

For trips over 4 hours, plan rest stops every 2–3 hours. Offer water in a small bowl inside the carrier. Keep a portable litter box available for stops. Never open the carrier in the car or outside without a secure harness — a frightened cat can bolt and be lost.

We deliver kittens throughout the Midwest and nationwide. Questions about travel? Text us at (618) 973-6926.