Taking Cats Camping Safely And Happily

If you’re a camper, chances are you’ve seen a cat or two roaming around the campsite. But did you know that cats can actually enjoy camping just as much as we do?

In this blog post, I’ll share some tips on how to take your cat camping with you. So whether you’re looking for a new furry friend to join your next adventure, or simply want to learn more about camp-cat behavior, keep reading!

IS YOUR CAT READY TO CAMP?

Before going to the great outdoors with a cat make sure that she will feel comfortable on every step. There is a big difference if you have an outdoor or indoor one but it can be done in both cases.

An outdoor cat is familiar with outdoor life, animals, and risks. Indoor cats don’t know much about the outdoors and can be frightened of the sounds, scents, and animals they don’t know.

If you have an indoor cat you shouldn’t just bring them straight to a campground and expect them to feel like at home.

The transition from the shelter of your home to being outside can be overwhelming for your feline, so you should first take some time to prepare her for this new experience.

You should start taking her on short trips outside, first in a safe enclosed space, then gradually increasing the area they have access to.

This will get them used to be outside without having the added stress of new foreign smells, loud noises, and other campers.

TAKE IT TO THE DAILY TRIPS IN THE WILD

Before you see if your cat is ready to enjoy camping you must take it on daily trips.

Your mission will be to make a simulation of a real camping adventure. Is it used to be leashed? Is your feline used to have a car ride? Does your cat obey you?

No matter if you have an indoor or outdoor pet, take her on daily trips in the wild so it can get used to all of the ceremonies, accessories, and rules.

You will need to be patient while training the cat for camping but with the purr-sistence and the right techniques, you will accomplish success if all goes as planned.

When your purr will be happy to follow you and your commands and will be used to the leash and staying in a cage you can go camping with her.

WHICH CATS ARE NOT APPROPRIATE TO TAKE CAMPING?

These are the types of felines that aren’t appropriate to take outdoors.

STRAYS

Stray cats are the first to mention as you have a small chance to socialize and prepare them for the big adventure.

If you want to accomplish it you will need to spend extra time with one to socialize and get used to humans, curious creatures, and sounds.

ILL OR INJURED CATS

If your cat is injured or has some kind of disease I don’t recommend taking her with you. It needs security, medication, and care to recuperate first.

KITTENS

Kittens can be a problem too. They aren’t used to danger and human rules so taking a kitten camping can be dangerous.

The little ones can wander around and get lost fast. In the worst case, you are jeopardizing their safety as wild animals just wait for new prey to show in front of their eyes.

WILL YOUR CAT RUN AWAY IF YOU TAKE HIM CAMPING?

Cats can get away from their owners easily in the forest because there is a lot of open space to run around in.

They have a very good sense of direction and can find their way back home easily, sometimes without being noticed by their owners.

You can prevent this from happening. Before going on a camping trip with your cat, you should train her on how to behave in nature.

Cats are used to being house pets and they might not be prepared for the outdoor lifestyle. Make sure that she knows how to walk on a leash or cat’s harness before going out into unfamiliar territory.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO BEFORE GOING TENT CAMPING WITH CATS?

These are some useful tips that you should do before heading to the campsite with your feline.

VACCINATION

As you two will spend time in nature your fur friend should be vaccinated for ticks, flea, and heartworm. Make sure she gets it.

MICROCHIP IT

Microchipping your cat is a smart idea because if it gets lost it will be easier to know to whom this kitty belongs. Go to your vet and he will microchip her.

PUT A COLLAR TAG ON

Get a cat’s collar where you will be able to write basic cat information and your contact. In case someone finds the lost cat he will be able to return the animal safely to your hands.

CHOOSE A CAT-FRIENDLY CAMPGROUND

If you will go to a specific campground make sure that they welcome cats. Some national parks allow cats but don’t allow them in the backcountry.

If you will camp in one of the U.S. national forests, you will probably be able to bring a cat but it will have to be on a leash.

If you want to know about pet-friendly campgrounds in Europe then go to alanrogers.com/camping/pets.

Make sure you check if the preferred campsite allows animals and which rules will you have to obey.

GPS TRACKER

Get a GPS tracker that you can put on the collar or harness. If she wanders around without knowing you will be able to track her and safely bring her back to the camp.

CAT CAMPING GEAR TO CONSIDER

Your cat will need some gear and accessories to camp safe and happy. The camping gear is meant to protect the animal from other animals and situations.

GET A CAT CAMPING TENT

Some people laugh when they hear that cat tents for camping exist. However, if you buy your pet this kind of tent, she will have her own place to rest.

I am sure you figured out that cats like to sleep in a basket, box, or any other product with walls.

It is proven that felines love to rest in a place where they feel safe and secure from predators and unexpected events.

A cat tent is a good investment for your outdoor journey and cats also look sweet in it!

OLIZEE CAT TENT

I like the animal tent from OLizee that comes in two sizes and has plenty of color options. It is easy to fold and wash.

The product is made of quality Oxford material with mesh sections (windows) for optimum weather protection and breathability.

A LEASH AND A HARNESS

Getting a leash and a cat harness is an essential gear that you must have out there. Cats can wander around and get lost so it is better that you prepare the needed gear.

A leash and a harness will help you to have a safe hike with your cat, and to keep her on the spot where you can see her at the campsite.

PORTABLE LITTER BOX FOR TRAVEL

Your pet should have a camping cat litter box while you will be driving to your camping destination.

This way an animal will have its place to relieve itself and you won’t have any issues with cat poop and urine in your car or around the camp.

Check the litter box from Petleader which is one of the best travel litter boxes out there.

Hint: Get your Fluffy to know the litter box before you go outdoors so she will comfortably use it at camp.

CAT PLAYPEN FOR THE OUTDOORS

Provide a place where a cat plays and relaxes when you arrive at the campsite.

A cat enclosure for camping is a perfect way to provide your pet with a safe outdoor playing area. It also occupies an animal while you do activities around the campground.

I adore the playpen from DAPU Home Co., LTD which includes 3 mesh tents and a triangle tunnel to walk in the playpen.

TAKE HER FAVORITE TOYS

Cats love to play with small toys. Pack some of her toys so she will feel relaxed and enjoy the outdoor stay.

While a cat plays with a toy it enhances its predatory instincts and has a healthy activity at the same time. A kitty without action and playing can get bored easily.

As you want her to be active and happy, provide it with toys from feathers, mice and balls, scratchers, catnip toys, and interactive toys that stimulate the animal mentally.

You don’t know which of these types of toys is the best for you Fluffy? Petco has the answer about how to select the perfect cat toy.

CAT CARRIER FOR HIKING

Cat carriers are great for active cat camping. There is no limit if you want to go on long hiking trips with your fur friend. Getting a cat backpack carrier will help you two to hike unburdened and stress-free.

Your feline friend will be safer inside it and can watch nature from the height… and how they love the heights!

Keeping a kitty in a backpack is safe as it won’t be able to chew or eat something that is not healthy or is even poisonous.

Cat backpacks will make them safe from snake bites, other ground animals, and poisonous plants.

A backpack carrier must be spacious enough, have an extra pad for comfort and provide optimum airflow so a cat enjoys the walk.

CAT BED

A cat bed is basic cat equipment that will provide your pet comfort no matter where she is.

You can place it in your car’s trunk or in the back seat so it can enjoy the ride. A bed can be placed also in a playpen or in your camping tent if she will sleep close to you.

Felines love to sleep in cozy boxes and beds so opt for a cat bed that will be big enough, washable, and made of friendly materials.

Bring a first aid kit

When going outdoors you should bring an aid kit with you so if something happens to your cat you can take care of it right away.

Aid kits are indispensable on camping trips. A first aid kit should be packed with items that will help you deal with minor injuries and illnesses, as well as more serious emergencies.

Make sure to pack supplies for your cat’s specific needs, such as any medications they require.

WHERE CAN YOU TAKE A CAT FOR CAMPING?

You have some options on where to take your cat outdoors. You can opt for a cat-friendly campsite where these animals are welcome.

If you choose one of these campsites make sure that you follow their rules and responsibilities. In most pet camping grounds, you will have to have your pet restrained.

If you choose backcountry cat camping or camping with cats in a bear country then follow my ultimate guide and get the basic gear so your furry friend will be enjoying nature without danger.

Hint: I advise you that you take it to a more peaceful campground if she is more of an anxious type.

HOW DO YOU TENT CAMP WITH A CAT?

Taking cats on a camping trip should be interesting and enjoyable if you take care of some gear and necessities to provide them with a safe and comfortable environment.

Make sure that your cat will have a dry and warm sleeping space.

Don’t forget to provide enough cat food and water at the same schedule to keep the cat hydrated and satisfy her basic needs throughout the day.

If the cat will spend nights with you in a tent then you can give it soft bedding.

Maybe she will need to go out to the toilet so make sure you practice this at home first. She will meow or go to you so you will know what has to be done.

DO CATS LIKE TENTS?

If they will feel safe inside a tent then there is a high possibility they will like it. Many of them sleep with their owners in a tent without any issues.

If your cat is new to the camping world then set a tent in your backyard and let her get familiar with it.

To speed up the adjustment process invite her inside and play with her (use her favorite toys). You will know when you two are ready for the exciting camping trip.

CAN CATS SLEEP IN TENTS?

Yes, cats can sleep in a camping tent but they must have clear access to go out when they need.

Teach your furry friend so she will show you that she must go out. You can also put a cat litter inside a shelter in one of the corners if you want.

Put some soft material (towel, blanket, etc.) as a bed for her or set its sleeping bed for a cozy night’s sleep.

IS IT SAFE FOR A CAT TO CAMP IN A TENT?

If you are afraid that other wild animals can hurt your cat you must provide safety for her. Staying inside a tent is safer than if she is on the leash outside while you sleep in your camping tent.

HOW TO GO CAMPING WITH TWO CATS?

If they are used to one another, the trip shouldn’t be demanding.

You need to make some preparations ahead of your trip. Below are a few tips for taking two cats on a camping trip.

• Prepare a suitable carrier for each cat. It’s important that they have carriers large enough to allow them to turn around and stretch out comfortably. If possible, get the cats used to their carriers a few days before your trip.
• Pack a bag with a couple of towels, water and food bowls, toys, and a litter box for each cat if you plan on letting them out of their carriers while you are camping.
• Set up the carriers at night so the cats can get used to sleeping in them.
• Good ventilation is essential for cats. The carriers should have mesh windows that are covered with screens, or the door of each carrier should be left open so the cats can go in and out throughout the night.
• Keep an eye on things at all times, because you never know when one of the cats will want to explore.
• Don’t allow your feline friend(s) to wander off on their own.
• Be aware that cats are easily frightened by strange noises and unfamiliar objects. When you go camping, there will be bizarre sounds, people talking, activities going on outside your door, etc., so this might upset them a little bit.

If cats are friends then they can play in the same playpen.

WHAT DO YOU DO WITH YOUR CAT WHEN YOU GO CAMPING?

You can have an active camping trip with your kitty and do activities that both you and your kitty will enjoy. When you go camping with cats, you can go hiking, backpacking, and even rock climbing.

You can also just go camping and enjoy the outdoors. Your cat will love to be out in the wild feeling grass underneath their paws, smelling new scents, and seeing animals they may not see at home.

CAN A CAT CHANGE THE NATURE OF YOUR CAMPING TRIP?

If you’re like me, and you love spending time outdoors camping with your cat, then consider my guide for taking cats camping safely.

Remember to always bring plenty of cat food and water, a carrier or tent that will keep your cat safe and secure, and last but not least – patience!

A cat can bring you joy at camping as you will be able to watch it in action, play with her, enjoy each other’s company and snuggle with her every time you have a chance.

It can make your camping trips special as you will be able to explore surroundings and new places together. It is a high possibility that you will learn something from your pet that you weren’t able to learn at home.

Have you ever gone camping with your cat? Tell us about it in the comments below!