Camping with Cats Really Is That Easy!

by Mary Simpson

Published: April 9th, 2025

(photo credit: Dee Browning/ shutterstock.com)

From camping to glamping to a simple road trip to explore the great outdoors, ensuring your feline is comfy, cozy, and totally chill with the experience is a big part of enjoying the adventure. That said, we’ve all heard the expression “like herding cats” when describing a situation that’s almost impossible to get back under control. And that has to be the biggest fear when planning any type of trip that will include the family cat. Because we know her determination to go where she pleases, when she pleases… and to return at her leisure. You’re nodding your head yes..!

But it’s particularly concerning when you’re not on the familiar turf of your own backyard. Her wandering off can be not only inconvenient but downright dangerous. So, what to do? Of course, we still want to find a way to have our feline fur kid travel with us and enjoy the mental stimulation that comes with new experiences. That’s why we’re lucky the pet industry has covered off our need for pussy-cat portability, on a number of levels.

Let’s start with those lengthy road trips. Whether ensconced in a luxury RV or squeezed into the backseat of today’s ultra-compact vehicles, when kitty has to go, she has to go. And having a fully-enclosed travel litter box solves the dilemma. Unlike dogs, cats aren’t keen to simply squat in a field after you’ve pulled over to the side of the road. You see, our felines are highly instinctive and the loose, granular texture of litter is similar to the softer soil where once upon a time, they would have chosen to relieve themselves. The ability to dig, and then cover waste is part of their survival instinct and old habits die hard. So, introducing them to a grassy embankment or the side of a tree isn’t going to be productive. The solution? Pack the litter box but opt for a style that’s compact, spill- and leak-proof, and that after use can be zipped up tight - making it odor-proof. Line the box with the included litter bags, use your cat’s favorite fill, and get on with your travels.

When camping with kitty for the first time, presenting her to the great outdoors may take a little time. Simply slipping her into a harness and assuming she’ll be cool with all the new sights and sounds of a campsite may be a little optimistic. That’s where an expandable cat travel carrier like this double option from Ikare can quickly become your new best friend. An enclosed top provides that cozy cat-cave vibe our felines love while mesh sides are perfect for air circulation… and letting her see you while assessing her surroundings from a safe place. What I love about this option is that the front panel expands out so your cat can stretch and relax as she acclimatizes. Eight tent pegs anchor the unit to the ground so there’s no worry of it being blown about and creating a “situation” with Miss Kitty. And because it’s a double-style kennel, you can travel with more than one pet or choose to let your feline have some extra space.

If you’re the outdoorsy type whose idea of getting out into the wild includes a tent and a great pair of hiking boots, you’re going to love this double backpack-style cat carrier. That’s because leaving kitty behind in a tent or unsecured setting isn’t always a safe option. Heat, predatory animals, and natural anxiety from when she realizes she’s alone, need to be considered. So, unless you have someone at the campsite, the only other option is… bring her with you. And that’s where this dual-pocket pet carrier steps up to save your need for adventure. Stacked and zipped together, it can hold two cats up to 12 pounds each or one larger feline up to 24 pounds. And, not only is this pet carrier lightweight with three mesh sides for optimal airflow, but it’s constructed from super-durable 600D Oxford fabric – so no danger of splits or tears. For total comfort, it has a flat, soft-pad base that protects her space and prevents her from feeling scrunched as you hike.

Finally! You’ve arrived at your campsite… or maybe just a picnic rest stop. It's time for all travellers to get out and stretch their legs and this portable pet playpen is just the ticket to give kitty the stretch space she needs. Measuring almost 4 feet across, each of the 8 panels on this roomy cat enclosure features tear-proof mesh screening for total air circulation. The expansive mesh zippered “roof” allows your feline to observe movement from every angle or you can choose to close it off and provide shade. Constructed from heavy-duty nylon and water-resistant materials, this cozy space is ideal for comfortably securing your kitty while you set up camp or take a break along your journey. Best of all, it pops up in seconds and folds flat into a handy travel case for easy storage in your trunk or backseat.

Many of us who share space with a cat have mastered the art of harnessing and walking said feline outdoors for brief periods. If you’d like to explore your campground surroundings with your cat in tow, there’s nothing to stop you from easing into this type of activity. But first, you need to invest in a top-quality, snug-fitting cat harness and leash. And this option from rabbitgoo had me at “escape-proof” because we all know how Houdini-like an irked feline can be. What your cat will love about this option is that it’s constructed from a breathable mesh that will help her keep cool… even if she isn’t keeping her cool. And the full front chest panel distributes her weight evenly – in case you have a cat that likes to pull and show the way. But it’s the four adjustable buckles that deliver the custom (escape-proof) fit that works for both you and Fluffy.

You never want your away-from-home adventures to end in panic and despite our best attempts, those super-agile and overly-curious felines we live with can often escape to check out the scenery on their own. If you have a cat that you suspect may be a little too determined to break away from the pack (you) and explore outside your campsite, you’re going to want to outfit her with a real-time GPS collar tracker such as this option from Tractive. Not only does it work with iOS and Android phones, but it updates every 2 to 3 seconds – meaning you won’t lose the positioning of your cat. You can even set up “safe zones” on your phone where, should Fluffy venture beyond, you get an alert. It’s a lightweight durable collar with a battery life of up to 7 days that delivers the peace of mind you want when travelling with pets.

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and 2 felines who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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As a cat parent, we love our feline friends, but let’s be honest, sometimes their natural instincts can seriously clash with our home décor. The frustration of discovering claw marks on your favorite sofa, finding your beloved houseplants overturned and dug up, or worse, dealing with territorial marking in your house is an experience that many of us share.I understand the desire to find a humane and effective solution to protect our homes without harming our cats. After all, our cats are family, and we want to coexist peacefully. The goal is not to punish them but to guide their behavior in a positive direction.Cat deterrent sprays offer several advantages, discouraging our kitties from engaging in unwanted behaviors in specific areas. Creating a DIY cat deterrent spray may be the perfect option for those seeking a budget-friendly solution or who like to control the substances coming into their home.In this article, I’ll share how to make a safe and effective cat deterrent spray. 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Why is Mental Enrichment Important for My Cat?

Have you ever walked in the door after a long day at work only to find your favorite houseplant knocked over, the curtains shredded, or your furniture scratched beyond recognition? Do you occasionally find your cat staring blankly out the window, seemingly uninterested in everything? These aren’t just quirky cat behaviors – they can be signs of boredom and a lack of mental stimulation. Just like humans, cats need mental exercise and entertainment to thrive. Imagine living in a restricted space with nothing to do for hours on end. This is where the concept of mental enrichment comes in. Mental enrichment involves providing activities and opportunities to engage your cat’s mind, satisfying their natural instincts and keeping them entertained (even when you’re not home). It’s not just about playing either; it’s about creating an environment that encourages exploration, problem-solving, and natural hunting behaviors. 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Interactive play and training sessions create opportunities for connection and communication with one another. When you engage with your cat in these activities, you’re building trust and deepening that relationship. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewarding desired behaviors with treats or praise, further build this bond and make training an enjoyable experience for both of you. Prevent Behavioral Problems As previously mentioned, boredom and frustration can manifest in a variety of bad habits and behavioral issues, including scratching, aggression, and spraying. Cats experiencing extreme stress may also withdraw from their family or hide to avoid any interaction. Mental enrichment provides an outlet for their energy and emotions, helping prevent these unwanted behaviors from developing. A mentally stimulated cat is less likely to engage in destructive or problematic behaviors. Boost Confidence Successfully completing a puzzle feeder, mastering a new trick, or exploring a new environment can boost your cat’s confidence and overall well-being. By accomplishing something new or challenging, they experience a sense of satisfaction, which can contribute to a more well-adjusted and happy cat.

How Can I Help My Cat Lose Weight?

There’s a silent epidemic quietly impacting countless cats across the United States and throughout the world: pet obesity. It’s a condition that, while seemingly harmless at first glance, can seriously impact your cat’s quality of life and shorten their precious time by your side.If you’re reading this, it’s because you’ve noticed your cat is carrying a few extra pounds as of late, and you’re concerned about the possible impact on their health and well-being. This post will help you understand why your cat’s weight matters, the tangible steps you can take to help them reach a healthy weight, and when to bring your veterinarian into the conversation.Why Your Cat’s Weight MattersIt’s easy to look at a chunky kitty and think they’re simply “cuddly” or “well-fed.” However, what might seem like a bit of extra cushion could also be a sign of a serious health concern. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about a condition where your cat’s excess body weight could negatively impact their health and well-being.So, how can you tell if your cat is carrying too much weight?Beyond just the number on the scale, there are a few visual cues you can watch out for. Ideally, you should be able to feel your cat’s ribs when you gently run your hands along their side (although they should not be noticeably sticking out). Their waist should also be noticeable, tapering slightly behind the ribs when viewed from above.They might be overweight if you can’t feel their ribs or if your cat looks more like a furry loaf than a sleek cat. This is incredibly common, with the 2022 Association for Pet Obesity Prevention survey revealing that 61% of cats are overweight or obese.The Potential Health ProblemsThe consequences of carrying extra weight extend far beyond a less active lifestyle. Obesity can trigger, or significantly contribute to, many serious health problems. Experts warn that this additional weight could impact nearly every system in your cat’s body!DiabetesJust like in humans, obesity in cats significantly increases their risk of developing diabetes. Excess body fat can make a cat’s cells resistant to insulin, the key hormone needed to regulate blood sugar. This means their body struggles to use sugar for energy, leading to high blood sugar levels.If your cat is suffering from diabetes, you may notice they are drinking more, urinating more frequently, eating more, or even losing muscle mass despite eating. More severe cases of diabetes will require lifelong insulin injections to regulate your cat’s blood sugar. If left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening complications.OsteoarthritisImagine carrying a heavy backpack all day, every day. That’s essentially what an overweight cat’s joints experience. This excess weight puts immense strain on their bones, joints, and cartilage, leading to inflammation, pain, and the development of osteoarthritis. This can make it painful to jump, climb, or even walk.Signs of arthritis in cats include:Reluctance to moveDifficulty getting up or lying downReduced activity levelsStiffnessSubtle limpThis pain can significantly reduce your cat’s comfort and overall quality of life.Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease or Other Urinary IssuesOverweight cats are more likely to develop uncomfortable and potentially dangerous urinary tract problems. Obesity can contribute to inflammation in the bladder, the formation of urinary stones, or even life-threatening blockages, most commonly seen in male cats. Signs to watch out for include straining to pee, frequent trips to the litter box with little or no result, accidents outside the litter box, or crying out in pain while attempting to go.Liver Disease (Hepatic Lipidosis or Fatty Liver Syndrome)This is a particularly serious and potentially life-threatening condition unique to cats, and overweight kitties are at a much higher risk. If an overweight cat suddenly stops eating for even a short period (due to stress, illness, or even an attempt to diet too quickly), their body starts to send its fat reserves to the liver much faster. The liver becomes overwhelmed and can’t process the fat efficiently, leading to liver failure. This is why any sudden loss of appetite, especially in an overweight cat, should be addressed with a vet appointment.Cardiovascular DiseaseCarrying extra weight means your cat’s heart has to work much harder to pump blood throughout their body. This heavy workload can lead to higher blood pressure and, over time, can lead to the development of serious heart conditions, diminishing their cardiovascular health, and potentially shortening their lifespan.Respiratory Problems Just like humans, excess fat in cats can accumulate around their chest and abdomen, restricting the ability of their lungs to expand effectively. This can make breathing difficult, especially during activity or in warm temperatures. You might notice your cat snoring more, breathing heavily after minimal activity, or even showing signs of labored breathing. Reduced Quality of Life and LongevityBeyond specific diseases, an overweight cat is generally less active, less playful, and less able to engage in natural cat behaviors like grooming themselves thoroughly. They might struggle to reach certain areas, leading to matted fur, bald spots, and skin issues. You may not be surprised to hear that research consistently shows that cats who maintain a healthy weight live significantly longer, more comfortable, and more active lives than those who are overweight or obese. Anesthetic and Surgical Risks If your cat ever needs surgery or a dental procedure requiring anesthesia, their weight may pose additional risks. Excess fat can make it more challenging for vets to administer anesthesia safely and accurately, and it can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery due to altered drug metabolism and increased strain on the vital organs.

Watch Out for These Common Summer Dangers for Dogs

The sun is shining and temperatures are rising, filling many of us with excitement for the arrival of summer. There’s nothing quite like seeing the pure delight on their faces as we explore our local parks and hiking trails together, but the season also brings a unique set of potential dangers for our pups.While we’re reaching for the sunscreen and planning our next adventure, we must remember that our pups face dangers we may not always think about. Keeping our pups safe starts with being informed about the risks and the steps we can take to prevent trouble.Let’s look at some of the most common summer dangers for dogs, from the obvious heat-related issues to some of the sneakier threats lurking in our backyards and beyond…HeatstrokeWe all know the joys of basking in the summer sun, but the rising temperatures can also pose a significant threat to our pups, with heatstroke being the biggest concern. Unlike humans, who sweat effectively to cool down, dogs primarily rely on panting. This process becomes far less efficient in high humidity and extreme heat, meaning their body temperature can quickly skyrocket.One of the most common culprits we sadly see far too often is the act of leaving a dog in a parked car – even for a short period, with the windows slightly open, the interior can heat up to lethal levels in minutes. Overexertion during walks or playtime in the hottest part of the day, and a lack of access to shade and fresh water when outdoors, also significantly increase this risk.Recognizing the signs of heatstroke is crucial. This includes:Excessive panting and droolingBright red or pale gumsIncreased heart rateLethargy and weaknessA stumbling gaitVomitingActing disorientedSeizures or collapse (in severe cases)If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, you must act quickly. Move them to a cool, shaded environment. Apply cool (not ice-cold) water to their body, especially the groin, belly, and neck areas. Offer small amounts of water if they are conscious. Most importantly, contact your veterinarian ASAP - heatstroke is a medical emergency.Some dogs are more susceptible to heatstroke, including brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs, senior dogs, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Extra vigilance is needed for them.Never, under any circumstances, leave your dog unattended in a parked vehicle during warm weather. Plan your walks and exercise sessions for the cooler early morning or late evening hours. When your dog is outdoors, ensure they have access to plenty of shade and a constant supply of fresh, cool water. Consider using cooling vests or mats as an added layer of protection on the hottest days.Sunburn and Paw Pad BurnsJust like us, dogs with light-colored fur or thin coats can suffer from sunburn. This is especially true on sensitive areas like their nose, ears, and belly. Using a pet-safe sunscreen on these vulnerable spots can help prevent discomfort and long-term skin damage.Another often-overlooked hazard is the scorching heat of surfaces like sand, asphalt, and sidewalks. These can become incredibly hot under the summer sun and easily burn your dog’s paw pads, leading to pain and potential infection.A simple way to check if the ground is too hot for your pup is the “seven-second rule.” Place the back of your hand on the surface and hold it there for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for you to comfortably hold it there, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.During the hottest part of the day, try walking your dog on grass or in shaded areas. If that’s not always possible, consider using protective dog boots to shield their paws from the heat.Dehydration Water is vital in helping your dog regulate their body temperature and stay healthy. Just like us, your dog’s water needs increase in warmer weather and with increased activity. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, a general guideline is that dogs should drink approximately one ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. There are also online calculators available to help you understand your dog’s needs – but keep in mind that this can vary depending on their size, activity level, and the ambient temperature. To help your dog stay hydrated, always ensure they have access to fresh, clean water at home. When you’re out and about, especially on walks or playtime, carry a portable water bowl and offer them water regularly. Contaminated Water Not all water sources are safe for our dogs. Summer can bring about hazards in bodies of water like lakes, ponds, and puddles that appear at the surface to be an inviting way to cool off. Blue-green algae, for example, can bloom in stagnant ponds and lakes during warm weather. Ingestion of this toxic algae can lead to serious health issues, ranging from vomiting and diarrhea to liver damage and neurological problems. Similarly, parasites like Giardia and Cryptosporidium can contaminate natural water sources, causing gastrointestinal problems for dogs who drink the affected water. It’s best to err on the side of caution and prevent your dog from drinking from random puddles or bodies of water. Always bring plenty of your own fresh water for your dog on outings. If they are being given regular water breaks, they will be less likely to try to sneak a drink along the way. Pool and Ocean Safety Swimming is a go-to favorite activity for many when the temperatures climb, but water safety is crucial. While some dogs are natural swimmers, many are not, and even strong swimmers can tire out quickly. Never leave your dog unsupervised near a pool, lake, or the ocean, regardless of how strong their swimming skills may be. If you have a pool or pond on your property, teach your dog how to enter and, more importantly, exit safely. Even if you have the area fenced off, there is always the risk that the barrier fails. A dog life vest can provide an invaluable layer of safety for dogs who are not strong swimmers or if you plan on boating. When at the beach, be mindful of saltwater ingestion. Too much saltwater can lead to dehydration, vomiting, and diarrhea. Always offer your dog plenty of fresh water while hanging out at the beach to discourage them from drinking the salt water during their play.

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