Cats and Camping: For Adventurous Felines Only

   Usually when we tell people that we take our cat Sushi tent camping we receive some strange looks. It was a common occurrence for us to see dogs camping with their owners and after noticing this, we questioned why dogs should be the only ones having all the fun. We then decided that we would try it with our curious and brave little cat, who already loved walking on her leash outdoors. Most people would be surprised to know that Sushi loves to go camping. Cats can enjoy camping if they have the right temperament and an owner who understands how to take them along safely. You may be wondering how you could possibly take your cat camping with you without it being a traumatic experience where you end up chasing your escaped cat through the woods. Here's our recipe for success.

   Bring your cat in his carrier, making sure to pack a bag with food, bottled water, litter, cat bed or blankets, litter box, and toys for the trip. Having a large tent also helps to allow the cat plenty of room, and space to put a litter box. I also highly recommend having your cat leash trained for an extra level of protection against escape. Please make sure before the trip that your cat cannot pull out of his harness as well, just in case he is frightened by a sudden noise and tries to pull away.

Sushi the Camping Cat

   When you arrive, set up your tent and campsite while keeping your cat in his carrier inside the car with it running, so he can stay in a temperature controlled environment. Remember, if you would not take a small child camping with you in a certain type of weather, leave your cat at home. Transfer your cat to the tent after you have finished setting up and allow him to explore the inside of your tent. Set out a litter box, food, and water inside the tent. Your cat may need some time adjusting and exploring her new surroundings. When you exit and enter the tent be very careful not to let your cat escape and if your cat is an escape artist, consider buying a tent with zip-off rooms where you can confine him upon opening or closing of the tent to the outside.

   Tents with mesh windows are ideal for cat tent camping, so that the cat can look outside to see all the excitement that nature has to offer. You can also take your leashed cat on walks and use a dog's tie-out stake to allow him to be outside with you while you are cooking or hanging out around the campfire. Make sure your cat is not staked close enough to the fire that he may injure himself and that he is never left outside unsupervised, as he could be a dangerously appealing snack to passing predators without your protection. Happy cat camping!