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Most cats don’t enjoy going outside \u2014 they much prefer staying in their familiar surroundings. If suddenly brought to an unfamiliar place, they’re likely to feel anxious and unsettled, especially since the outside world can be quite stimulating for cats, easily triggering high stress and insecurity. That’s why before taking your cat outside, it’s important to understand what to watch out for, so you can help your cat adapt quickly and enjoy the outing! This article covers several key things to keep in mind when going out with your cat, including pre-trip training methods and what to pack, so you can be fully prepared \u2014 and your cat can head out happy!<\/strong><\/p>\n Taking your cat outside can not only cause stress, but also expose them to fleas or ticks, so not all cats are suited for outdoor activities. Generally, cats with the following 3 traits are better suited for outings:<\/p>\n Cats have a hard time adapting to new environments, so it’s generally recommended to avoid taking them out as much as possible. However, in some situations it’s unavoidable. Here are the 3 most common reasons:<\/p>\n Before taking your cat outside, it’s important to help them get familiar with the outside world first! Keep these 4 training tips in mind to help your cat successfully reduce anxiety and enjoy outdoor activities!<\/p>\n Cats love being in familiar surroundings, so at the very start of training your cat to go outside, begin by getting them used to a carrier or stroller. Cat parents can place a small blanket or mat that belongs to the cat inside the carrier or stroller \u2014 the familiar scent will help the cat feel at ease and make them more willing to enter. If your cat still resists going in, try using catnip or a pheromone spray, or let them eat near the carrier to help reduce their aversion to it.<\/p>\n Once your cat feels comfortable staying in the carrier, you can start using it to take them out for short walks. During training, always wait for your cat to adjust before gradually extending the outing range and duration. Forcing things too quickly will only increase their fear of going outside, so it’s best not to make outings too long at first \u2014 15 to 30 minutes is a good starting range. If your cat starts to feel tense or resistant, pause the outing for the time being, or let your cat stay in the car and observe the outside environment. Once they’re less averse to going out, you can then try the carrier or stroller again.<\/p>\n Regardless of how each training session goes, always reward your cat afterward \u2014 this makes them more receptive to training and helps reduce their aversion to new environments.<\/p>\n Cats tend to be sluggish and uninterested after sleeping or eating, so training sessions during these times won’t be very effective \u2014 even food or toys may fail to capture their attention. If you want to train your cat to go outside, it’s best to do so at dawn<\/strong> or dusk<\/strong>, as these are when cats are most active. They’ll be more willing to try new things and will adapt to new environments more easily.<\/p>\n There’s a lot to pack when heading out with your cat \u2014 worried about forgetting something? The table below covers 4 categories of items you might need. Keep this list handy when packing and check everything off before you go!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Daily essentials<\/p>\n<\/td>\n Hygiene items<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \u25cf Cat litter<\/p>\n \u25cf Water bottle<\/p>\n \u25cf Food bowls<\/td>\n \u25cf Harness \/ leash<\/p>\n \u25cf Water bottle<\/p>\n \u25cf Parasite treatment<\/p>\n \u25cf Small first aid kit<\/td>\n \u25cf Puree treats \/ freeze-dried treats<\/p>\n \u25cf Toys<\/p>\n \u25cf Catnip \/ silvervine<\/td>\n \u25cf Wet wipes<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n When taking your cat outside, there are 4 key things to pay special attention to:<\/p>\n 1. Stay safe<\/strong><\/p>\n Even with a carrier or stroller, always make sure the leash and clips are secure. If your cat accidentally escapes the carrier or jumps out of the stroller, the risk of accidents or getting lost becomes very high.<\/p>\n 2. Keep things clean<\/strong><\/p>\n Cats are very clean animals and typically won’t eliminate without a litter box, which means they can easily end up holding their bladder. Prepare some clean litter before heading out. If your cat does end up eliminating inside the carrier during the trip, clean it up as quickly as possible \u2014 otherwise it can worsen their anxiety.<\/p>\n 3. Watch your cat’s mood<\/strong><\/p>\n Even if your cat has been trained, keep a close eye on their emotions. If you notice your cat still seems a bit tense, try covering the carrier slightly with a breathable cloth, or use freeze-dried treats or purees to redirect their attention. Toys, catnip, or your cat’s own blanket can also help provide a sense of security \u2014 have them on hand for when needed.<\/p>\n 4. Avoid exposure to harmful substances<\/strong><\/p>\n Cats may come into contact with various parasites or harmful substances when outside, so regular parasite treatment and vaccinations are very important. Also, cats may accidentally ingest or come into contact with toxic substances outdoors \u2014 such as chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or poisonous plants \u2014 so extra care is needed to prevent poisoning.<\/p>\n Signs of carsickness in cats include: constant meowing, drooling, vomiting, restlessness, and in severe cases, loss of bladder or bowel control. If your cat is prone to carsickness, it’s recommended to:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n If you need to travel soon and are worried your cat will feel lonely at home and develop separation anxiety \u2014 or that your cat won’t handle going outside well \u2014 Fluv is Taiwan’s largest pet care platform, with over 100,000 pet owner users and more than 5,000 verified, identity-confirmed pet sitters. Just download the Fluv app<\/a>, and you can easily find the best pet sitter near you to provide your cat with long-term companionship services, ensuring your cat receives the most attentive care!<\/p>\n If you’re planning to take your cat outside and want to make sure everything goes smoothly while giving your cat the best care possible, feel free to follow Fluv’s Facebook page<\/a> for more tips and advice on taking your cat out!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Further reading:<\/p>\nNot all cats are suited for going outside! Only cats with these 3 traits should be taken out<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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Is it necessary to take your cat outside? When might you need to?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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How to help your cat get used to a new environment? 4 key training tips before heading out<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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<\/p>\nTraining tip 1: Reduce resistance<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Training tip 2: Take it step by step<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Training tip 3: Offer encouragement<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Training tip 4: Plan the right time<\/strong><\/h3>\n
What do you need to bring when taking your cat out? A complete packing checklist<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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\n \n Safety items<\/td>\n Comfort items<\/td>\n \n \n \u25cf Kibble \/ wet food<\/p>\n \u25cf Carrier \/ stroller<\/p>\n \u25cf Blanket<\/p>\n \n <\/h2>\n
Getting ready to take your cat outside? Keep these 4 important things in mind!<\/strong><\/h2>\n
[One possible problem when taking your cat outside \u2014 what to do if they get carsick?]<\/h2>\n
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Still not comfortable taking your cat outside? Fluv pet sitters give your cat the most attentive care<\/strong><\/h2>\n