For anyone traveling with a cat in an RV, a vital piece of equipment should always be a well-secured cat cage – cats like to have their own private cavern. Because the RV pet now associates its cage with security, the traveler may also find that his cats learn to self-crate, i.e. the moment the engine starts is the moment when the cat will retreat to its crate.
Some cats, however, may make their own preferences about a travel hiding place known. So long as there are no moving parts that will trap paws and tails, many RVers prefer to simply let their cats stay where they are most comfortable.
Always Check Where the Cat is Prior to Departure
The traveler should always check his cat's location before operating the slides or setting out. If there is an emergency, it is useful to know where to look.
Over time, the traveling cat may establish a variety of favorite hidey-holes; one favorite hiding place for cats is behind the RV toilet. This may or may not be a good idea, but is usually amusing. Be sure to keep closets closed as they tend to lead deep into the vehicle's innards.
If the travelers find that rare creature, the cat who loves to travel, by all means have the pet in the RV cab. Cats have been known to sit contentedly on the passenger's lap or may even balance on the dashboard, peeking as the world goes by. Such RV cats are rare, but delightful.
Experienced Travel Cats Can Tell the Difference Between Generators and an Engine
When the traveler stops for a break, she should always open the cat cage so that her RV pets can come out, stretch their legs and visit the food bowl and litter box (which should be very well secured, covered and free from obstruction). Cats quickly learn the difference between an RV engine and a generator and come out to do what they must; they should be given time to self-stow before departure.
Keep water available at all times, especially since RVs can quickly become hot and uncomfortable. While the cat may hate such an indignity, dousing its neck with cold water on a hot day can help keep it cool. When stopped, where possible keep a fan running with windows cracked open. A cool cat is unlikely to become sick and will recover quickly from the drama of motion.
The reader may be interested in additional information about keeping an RV-traveling cat happy and healthy.
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