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Moving across the country is a laborious task that involves a lot of coordination and planning. When you need to move a long distance with your family and pets, the need for organization is even greater. Small kids and pets naturally need more attention and travel gear to make the trip successful. If you need to move across the country with your cat, then it's important to follow some key tips to make the trip go smoothly.

How can you move across the country with a cat and arrive at your destination with as little stress as possible? This guide will show you how to keep your cat comfortable, make the car ride as calm as possible, and what items you need to bring to make your trip a success.

Make Sure All Vet Records Are up-to-Date

Different states have different vaccination requirements and laws concerning pets, so before you move, check your destination’s rules. Also, it's important to acquire your cat’s veterinarian records so that you can easily transition your pet to a new vet as soon as you move. This documentation will verify that your cat is up-to-date in its shots and abiding by your new state's rules, making it easier to settle in.

For extra protection, you may want to get your cat microchipped in order to register your pet online. This will help you just in case your cat gets lost during the move. Though the chances of this are rare as long as you keep a close eye on your pet, moving is an unpredictable experience in which anything can happen. It's best to be prepared so that you can relocate with confidence.

Invest in a Comfortable Cat Carrier

Though different states have different laws about loose cats in cars, it's more convenient to travel with your cat in a secure carrier. This ensures that you are abiding by the laws whether you're driving through a state with cat carry laws or not. Containing your cat will also keep your pet in a predictable place and prevent any distractions while behind the wheel.

Thankfully, there are many lightweight mesh carriers on the market that attach to seats and keep your cat in place about shifting around the car. They also are made of 360-degree mesh that provides excellent visibility to reduce your cat’s stress levels. Currently, you can find affordable cat carriers for less than $30 in many online pet stores.

Give Your Cat Frequent Breaks

Both humans and cats need to have regular breaks from driving to reduce the risk of developing cramps or feeling too anxious. Cats have a natural instinct to play and hunt daily, so it’s important to play with your cat and give them some fresh air during your road trip. It’s advised to give yourself and your cat a break every two hours or whenever you see a rest area.

If you invest in a cat harness, you can also give your pet a much-needed walk outdoors. Bring all your cat’s favorite toys like stuffed mice and feather wands for an exhilarating play session during your pit stops. Not only is this good for your cat, but it’s also good for you to bond with your pet and take your mind off the stress of moving.

Book Pet-Friendly Hotels in Advance

A long-distance car ride means that you're inevitably going to stay in a hotel overnight. Both people and pets need rest to feel refreshed. While all hotels can accommodate humans, there are some places that might not allow pets or have a fair amount of restrictions. This is why it's important to plan your trip in advance and book hotels along your itinerary that allow cats. While most hotels allow dogs, it’s harder to find a hotel that allows cats due to the risk of cat urine damages.

To make sure that the hotel allows cats, you should do your research and then personally call the hotel to confirm before booking. Even hotels within the same chain may have different policies, so it’s always good to check before locking in on your accommodations. Be aware that there will most likely be an additional pet fee or deposit that will go into the cost of travel. Also, hotels have varying policies about owners and if they are allowed to leave the cat unattended or if the cat must be kept in the carrier during your stay.

In the United States, these hotel chains allow cats. If you’re in a pinch and need to stop somewhere unexpectedly, then these are your best bets for finding cat-friendly accommodations.

• Kimpton
• Hotel Indigo
• Staybridge Suites
• Loews
• Motel 6
• Quality Inn
• Red Roof Inn
• Westin

Although these hotels are known to be cat-friendly, it’s still good to double-check at the counter before you book a room. This gives you absolute confidence that you and your pet will have a comfortable stay.

Use Storage Rentals to Keep Large Cat Accessories Safe

Even the best-timed move-ins can have some delays. If you need to store some large items like furniture and your cat’s beloved tree gym and scratching posts, then a storage unit can help you stay organized. This can also save you money on expensive day-to-day storage from the movers. You may also choose to keep the storage unit all year to house all your seasonal items for added convenience! We're getting new locations regularly, so contact us to find a storage rental unit near you.

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Storage Rentals of America is your convenient self-storage solution. So come into our office or give our storage experts a call at 1-800-457-5678. Our call center is available 7 days a week and can help determine which storage unit size best fits your storage needs.