🐾 Cross-Country Traveling with Cats
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🐾 Cross-Country Traveling with Cats
Yes, we all survived—fur, paws, and sanity intact.
There’s something both terrifying and freeing about starting over. When I packed up my life in Georgia and pointed my Jeep toward Arizona, I wasn’t just moving houses—I was beginning a new chapter. My two cats, Zeus and Scout, came along for the ride, wide-eyed and slightly suspicious.
I hired a moving company for most of my belongings, but there was no way I was letting anyone else be responsible for my furry copilots. So off we went—three travelers, one Jeep, and a lot of cat hair.
The Setup
Driving a Jeep was a blessing. With the back seats down, I had plenty of space to create a little travel haven. I picked up a large pet carrier that fit both cats comfortably (they’re about 10 pounds each).
They didn’t stay in the carrier all day—only at the start of each morning and whenever entering or leaving hotels—but it gave them a sense of security and routine. One of my cats stayed in the carrier the majority of the trip.
I also bought a portable travel litter box that tucked perfectly behind the passenger seat. To my pleasant surprise, they actually used it without any mess! I used the same box each night in the hotel room.
👉 Travel litter box (compact, foldable)
And for clean-up while we were on the go, I packed a cleaning spray and absorbent pads—because let’s face it, road trips with cats can be unexpectedly messy.
And one more thing that made a big difference: a cozy travel mat and blanket combo, perfect for keep-your-cats-comfortable in the car and at night.
On the Road
We averaged about eight hours of driving per day. I didn’t use any medication, though my vet had suggested a small dose of Benadryl if they became too anxious.
Frequent stops helped—stretching legs (mine), offering water (theirs), and a few reassuring pets along the way.
I learned quickly to skip feeding during travel—the first day I tried it, I ended up with cat food everywhere. They ate once we reached the hotel instead. I did add bone broth to their food at night, to ensure they were staying well hydrated.
Inside the Jeep, I set up cozy zones—blankets under the seats and a soft cat scratcher near the back where they could curl up and nap.
Where to Stay
I booked La Quinta Inns each night. They’re everywhere, reasonably priced, and pet-friendly with no extra drama.
The rooms were clean, the staff was welcoming, and the breakfast buffet? Excellent. Just what you need when you’re living out of a car with cats.
What to Pack
- 🐱 Large carrier
- 🧺 Portable litter box
- 🎾 A few familiar cat toys
- 🧻 Paper towels and Resolve cleaner—just in case
- 🛏️ Extra blankets
- 💧 Bottled water
The Verdict
The cats were understandably curious in each new hotel room, but after exploring, they’d settle and sleep. The trip turned out to be smooth, manageable, and even peaceful—which was exactly what I’d hoped for.
If you’re considering driving cross-country with cats, I’d say go for it—with the right setup, a well-thought-out route, and a lot of patience.
A Gracefully Gathered Reflection
This trip reminded me that home isn’t always a place—it’s the comfort we create around us, even in motion.
Sometimes that looks like a clean litter box in a hotel bathroom and two sleepy cats curled up beside you.
Every journey, no matter how practical, can hold a touch of grace.
— Annette, Gracefully Gathered Home
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