Should I Feed My Cat Before a Road Trip?

By Robert Palmer

Are you planning a road trip with your furry feline friend? One question that may be on your mind is whether you should feed your cat before hitting the road. The answer to this question isn’t as straightforward as you might think, so let’s explore some factors to consider.

Why You Might Consider Feeding Your Cat Before a Road Trip

  • Comfort: A full stomach can make your cat feel more comfortable during the car ride. An empty stomach may cause your cat to feel nauseous and lead to vomiting.
  • Schedule: Depending on the length of your trip, it might be difficult to stick to your cat’s regular feeding schedule. Feeding them before you leave can help ensure they don’t go too long without food.

Why You Might NOT Feed Your Cat Before a Road Trip

  • Anxiety: Some cats get anxious during car rides, and feeding them beforehand may make their anxiety worse.
  • Accidents: If your cat eats a big meal before the car ride, they may need to use the litter box more frequently, which could lead to accidents in the car.

What Should You Do?

Ultimately, whether or not you feed your cat before a road trip will depend on your individual situation. If you’re going on a short trip and it’s close enough to their regular feeding time, it might be best to wait until after the ride. However, if it’s going to be a long journey or if you’re unsure when you’ll be able to stop for food again, feeding them beforehand might be the better option.

If you do decide to feed your cat before leaving, keep in mind that smaller meals are better than one large meal. Also, make sure they have plenty of water to drink throughout the ride.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are pros and cons to feeding your cat before a road trip. Consider your cat’s individual needs, the length of the journey, and how well they handle car rides before making a decision. No matter what you choose, make sure to prioritize your cat’s comfort and wellbeing during the trip.