How to maintain your cat's feeding routine while travelling

We get it: travelling with your cat is a rollercoaster. The luggage, the “do I really need that?” panic and the usual last-minute scramble to get them into a carrier without being shredded. But keeping your cat’s feeding routine intact while you’re on the go is surprisingly doable, and will save you from the horrors of a hangry feline meltdown.

Let’s dive into how to keep your cat well-fed and happy during your travels. (Spoiler alert: a little preparation goes a long way.)

BEFORE YOU GO

Call the vet

First things first, channel your inner responsible cat parent and have a chat with the vet. Just to get the green light on your cat's specific needs. 

Pack their usual food

Sudden changes in diet can lead to tummy issues. If you can, pack enough of their usual grub to last the whole trip. If that’s not possible, find something similar at your destination (after a lot of research, obviously). Think of it like packing your own snacks for a trip — no one wants to be stuck eating airplane peanuts.

Travel-friendly bowls

Invest in a lightweight, collapsible silicone bowl that’s easy to clean and transport. 

Trust your instincts

You know your cat’s usual routine. Try to stick to it as much as possible. Maybe there’ll be a stop where you can offer a meal — or maybe not. Go with the flow, but keep the food on time as much as possible. 

ON THE GO

Meal schedule: stick to it

Your cat doesn’t care if you’re stuck in traffic or the plane is delayed. If they usually eat at 8 a.m., they’ll be expecting breakfast at 8 a.m. So, keep feeding them at their usual times as much as you can.

Pit stops = time for snacks (for both of you)

Road trips are all fun and games until you forget to stop every 2–3 hours to let your cat eat. Whether it’s food or water, plan for pit stops where your cat can safely eat and drink. 

Water in the carrier

Long journey? Your cat can’t just hold out for a water fountain at the airport. In this study, one vet suggests attaching a water bowl to the inside of the carrier before you even start the trip and fill it with ice cubes. As the ice melts, your cat gets fresh water — and you don’t have to clean up a puddle every 10 minutes. 

IF YOU'RE FLYING 

Know your airline's pet rules

Airlines have rules. Lots and lots of rules. And they differ between airlines, domestic flights and international travel. So, before you book the flight that’s definitely cheaper, check their pet policies. And make sure you pack your cat’s food in your carry-on, because no one wants to explain that you can’t feed your cat because the airline “lost” their food in the hold.

Feed them before takeoff

You wouldn’t go 24 hours without food, and neither should your cat. The minute you get to the gate, give them a little snack and water. Once you land, repeat the process. 

Manage stress

Flying is stressful for anyone, especially your cat. If you know they get anxiety, ask your vet about travel-friendly solutions like a calming collar or pheromone spray.

AT YOUR DESTINATION 

Create a feeding nook

As soon as you arrive at your destination, claim a corner, set up their bowls and make it the place to eat. Cats are creatures of habit and can be surprisingly territorial, so creating a little oasis of familiarity will make them feel safe. It’s the least you can do after dragging them across the globe, right?

Watch their intake (stress eating is real) 

Not every cat will eat like usual while travelling. Some might get stressed and refuse food (looking at you, picky eaters), while others might eat too much to comfort themselves. If their water and food intake is off, don’t panic, but do keep an eye on them and reach out to your vet if it continues.