Cats make great companions in any home. If you are considering moving with a cat or need to travel for work, the last thing you want to do is bring your pet to an environment they won’t like. Cats can adapt quickly to living in an RV and continue to thrive in a new, more mobile living situation. As cat lovers ourselves, we’ve learned some tips and tricks to make RV living with cats a bit easier.
Can You Live in an RV With a Cat?
A cat can be the perfect addition to your mobile home. Living in an RV with a cat may come with some challenges, but some simple adjustments can turn your RV into the ideal living situation for both you and your furry friend.
Make Space in Your RV for Your Cat
Finding the appropriate amount of space for your cat is crucial to their overall well-being while living in an RV. Even if you only plan on living in an RV for a few weeks or months, it is still essential to ensure that your cat has enough space to roam, as well as relax.
Finding a spot for your cat’s litter box can be one of the trickier challenges when first adapting to living in an RV with a cat. On the one hand, it can be difficult to sacrifice the floor space you have. However, you can’t not have a litter box with a box-trained cat.
To accommodate this, some RV owners choose to install a cat flap on a low cabinet and place the litter box inside. If your cat enjoys a bit of outdoor time, you may also consider placing the litter box in an outdoor storage bay or parking area that has interior access.
Deck Out Your RV for Cat Care
There are plenty of minor modifications and upgrades you can bring into the interior of your RV that will make your cat’s life more comfortable. Many of these can be cheap DIY projects.
If your cat loves to climb, you might add a cat tree to your RV. You can even purchase suction-cup shelves that adhere to walls and/or windows to create additional perches for your pet.
Speaking of windows, having clean, bright views of the outside can help keep your cat mentally stimulated. Consider hanging a bird feeder outside of one or more windows to attract feathery friends your cat can enjoy watching.
Many cats also enjoy having places to duck and hide throughout the day. If your furniture is secured flat to the floor, consider clearing out a cabinet or another low storage area that your pet can use as a space to hang out.
Stick to a Routine
Cats are often creatures of habit. Even as you travel, try to stick to a routine. This might mean feeding them at the same times each day, or you could bring them outside with you on a predictable basis. Establishing a reliable schedule can help your cat learn to trust their environment more quickly.
Prepare for the Unexpected
It’s best to prepare for emergencies well ahead of time. As you get ready to travel in your RV, make sure that your cat has a collar with an identification tag. Double-check that they are up to date on all vaccinations and that you have a sufficient supply of any medications they might need.
Make sure you know where your documentation of ownership is stored in the unlikely event that it ever comes into question. Having this proof on hand can also speed up the process if you need to seek veterinary assistance while traveling.
How Do You Acclimate a Cat to an RV?
Just like humans, cats need time to adjust to new surroundings. Acclimating a cat to an RV can be an involved process, but the results can be rewarding.
Let Your Cat Get to Know Your RV
Your cat likely enjoys some level of exploring, so let them wander. Before moving, spend some time letting your cat simply exist in your RV. By watching them, you can learn their favorite spots, and what areas they tend to avoid.
As your cat learns the ins and outs of your RV, try leaving them alone in the vehicle for short periods of time. This will give them the opportunity to roam freely and learn how to spend time in the RV without you present. Once you believe that your pet understands their new mobile home, it’s time to hit the road.
RV Travel With Cats
Most cat owners will tell you that their pets are not huge fans of car rides. Unlike many dog breeds, which also make for fantastic RV companions, cats may experience nausea or otherwise get upset in a moving vehicle.
If you intend to travel long distances in your RV with your cat, try starting out by bringing them along on shorter rides. As your cat gets used to spending time in a moving vehicle, you can let them tag along on longer drives. Before you know it, they’ll be your number one travel partner.
Find Cat-Friendly Areas
When it comes to pets, not all RV parks are built equally. Some may have better pet-oriented spaces and facilities than others; some may not allow pets of any kind. Before setting out, make sure that your RV park of choice is properly prepared for feline companions. If your cat enjoys the outdoors, look for a park with plenty of green space. You can also seek out reviews from pet owners on their experience bringing four-legged family members into the park.
The Perfect Space for RV Living With Cats
As you head out for your next adventure, be sure that your cat is just as prepared as you are. At Rio Bonito Cabin & RV Park, we welcome furry friends of all sorts. Our spacious RV park is great for travelers with cats. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our beautiful campsites and our pet policy.