Are you planning to go away this summer with your cat? What a great idea! Relaxing time in the countryside is good for kitty too, but you should make sure he or she gets a thorough health check and tests before you set out. Here is a complete list of those tests and the travel medicine you should always have with you!
When you travel with your cat, he might come into contact with a variety of parasites and illnesses due to the change of environment. So, it is important that you pay close attention and have safeguards in place to keep him healthy and happy. For example, it’s a good idea to get vaccinations and medicines that prevent infections from occurring, and make sure to keep those hygiene standards high too!
Tests and documents for safe travels with your cat
The most important travel document to have with you is the cat’s health care record booklet, the one in which your vet records all its treatments and shots, and which includes both the cat’s and owner’s data.
One month before departure abroad, make sure your cat gets his anti-rabies vaccination and that its pet passport, which is issued only if he has an identifying microchip, is up to date. This travel document contains its and your identifying data, the microchip number (or tattoo) and a list of all the shots your pet has been given, his visits to the vet and its anti-tick and echinococcus treatments. Be forewarned that without this document, as required by the Ministry of Health, you may not take your cat out of Italy.
Vaccinations recommended based on geographical location
In humid and flat-lying areas you need to protect your dog and cat from cardiopulmonary filariasis, a widespread and dangerous disease transmitted by mosquitoes. In the Mediterranean area, furry pets may contract leishmaniasis from pesky sand flies. Filariasis can be prevented by giving your dog the appropriate pills, or a shot, prescribed by your vet before departure. Leishmaniasis prevention also requires the administration of specific anti-parasitic drugs by your vet.
Another important vaccine your cat needs to be given is the one that prevents Feline Leukaemia (FeLV), as your cat could come into contact with an infected local feline and risk getting the illness.
General meds your cat might need
Not all cats are used to travelling in cars or planes, so make sure your kitty medicine kit includes mild natural sedatives like Bach flower remedies or calming pheromones. Your cat might react to the change of environment by vomiting or having bouts of diarrhoea. So, it’s a good idea to bring something with you that can help it recover quickly, and don’t forget to include some anti-parasitic medicine in its kit too.
Remember that you can calm your cat down in other ways as well, like bringing along its favourite bedding or a beloved toy that makes it feel safe and reminds it of home.
Are you ready to travel with your cat?