Thanks to my female staffers and their friends for assembling their top tips for women. — Rick
eed your cat about three to four hours before you leave. The food needs time to settle so your cat doesn't leave you a regurgitated gift on the road. Feed and provide water for your cat along the way at times it would normally eat. Allow a little playtime while you stop for your own break. Transition timing of routines slowly a few weeks before you leave to accommodate any time-zone changes.
Select a carrier that is well-ventilated and big enough for your cat to get up, move around in and stretch. Avoid letting the cat out of the cage, unless leashed, until you reach where you are going. Ensure any crate is USDA-approved for shipping if you fly.
Set the carrier out in your house a few days before you travel so your cat can get used to it. Let it explore the cage as it pleases. Take a few short car rides with your cat in the days before you leave if traveling by car.