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Transporting Your Cat Safely in the Car

Transporting Your Cat Safely in the Car

Written by Mara | July 16, 2026

Whether you're taking your cat to the vet, heading off on holiday or simply going out for the day, a safe car journey is important for both you and your cat. Many cats find travelling by car stressful. With the right carrier and good preparation, you can make the journey as comfortable as possible. In this blog, you'll learn what to consider when transporting your cat in the car and how to reduce stress during the journey.

Why a good cat carrier is important

A cat should never travel loose in the car. In the event of sudden braking or a collision, this can create dangerous situations for both your cat and everyone else in the vehicle.

A sturdy cat carrier or travel bag keeps your cat safely in place while also providing a reassuring sense of security.

Cat Carriers

Carrier or travel bag?

There are different ways to transport your cat. The best option depends on the purpose of your journey and your cat’s personality.

A hard plastic carrier offers the greatest protection and stability. For this reason, it is usually the best choice for car journeys and visits to the vet. Many models are easy to clean and have a durable construction.
A soft travel bag is often lighter and easier to carry. It is particularly suitable for short journeys or when you need to walk longer distances, for example at a railway station or airport. Make sure the bag is sturdy enough and provides adequate ventilation.

Secure the carrier properly

Place the carrier on the back seat whenever possible, or in the boot of an estate car if it cannot slide around. Secure the carrier using the seat belt or a dedicated fixing system if one is available. A properly secured carrier prevents your cat from sliding through the car during sudden braking and improves safety throughout the journey.

Reducing stress during the journey

Many cats find car travel stressful. By allowing your cat to become familiar with the carrier in a calm way, travelling often becomes much less stressful. Leave the carrier out at home regularly so your cat starts to see it as a safe place.

For cats that experience a lot of stress, Feliway Spray or Zenifel Spray can provide additional support. These sprays contain a synthetic version of the cat’s facial pheromone, which may help reduce stress during travel. Spray the carrier approximately 15 minutes before departure and allow the alcohol to evaporate before placing your cat inside.

You may also wish to partially cover the carrier with a thin cloth during the journey. Many cats find this calming, provided the ventilation openings remain unobstructed.

Travelling with your cat

On longer journeys, stop regularly to check that your cat is calm and that the temperature inside the car remains comfortable. Never open the carrier outside the car, as a frightened cat can easily escape.

Take a look at our range of products for travelling and journeys with your cat.

Frequently asked questions

Is a carrier or a travel bag better for cats?

For car journeys, a sturdy plastic carrier is usually the best choice. It offers greater protection, is more stable and is easy to clean. A travel bag is often lighter and easier to carry but generally provides less protection. The best option depends on the type of journey and your cat’s individual needs.

How do you secure a cat carrier in the car?

Ideally, secure the carrier on the back seat using the seat belt so it cannot move while driving. If you have an estate car or SUV, you can also place the carrier in the boot, provided it is stable and cannot slide around. A properly secured carrier improves the safety of both your cat and the vehicle’s occupants.

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Feliway – Stressed Cat Behaviour

Feliway is an synthetic copy of the cat pheromone: the so-called feline facial pheromone. This cat pheromone is released by special glands and are produced from glands around your cat's mouth, mouth and chin. By rubbing its head along objects - the typical behaviour that everyone with a cat will recognise - the cat gives off the pheromones to its surroundings. This way, the cat marks its territory, within which it feels safe and at ease. The natural marking behaviour with pheromones is essential for the well-being of your cat. The pheromones that a cat releases into its environment by rubbing give it peace of mind, security and confidence.

More tips

About the author

Mara van Brussel-Broere, Veterinarian at Vetsend

Graduated as a companion animal veterinarian from Utrecht University, she uses her practical experience to advise customers and share knowledge at Vetsend. She finds it important to provide pet owners with clear information about health and wellbeing.