Security
Every closure must hold
Door, latches, screws, zippers, seams, top panels, and handles should be checked before travel day.
Safe travel and arrival
The carrier should be secure territory, not a surprise trap.
A structurally sound familiar carrier supports transport, identification, safe handoff, and room orientation. Carrier preparation also includes bedding, labeling, mobility, medication, and escape prevention.
Plan earlyProtect routineShare baselinePrepare suppliesConfirm fit
Current availability, rates, policies, and final care acceptance are managed by Cats in the City.
Reduce surprisesSpecific planning gives the team better information at arrival.
One accountable handoffDates, room, food, medication, contacts, and contingencies stay connected.
Planning principles
A smoother stay begins before check-in.
Preparation should reduce uncertainty for the cat, guardian, and care team without pretending every transition can be made invisible.
Familiarity
Leave the carrier available
Bedding, treats, rest, and voluntary access can make the carrier part of home territory.
Access
Match the cat’s body and handling needs
Top access, removable lid, size, floor support, and entry angle can matter for pain, fear, obesity, or mobility limits.
Continue planning
The next useful page is one decision away.
Follow the pathway that matches the cat rather than reading the entire website in sequence.
Related guide
Cat Taxi
Connect the carrier to transport logistics.
Open guideRelated guide
The first 24 hours
See how the carrier affects arrival orientation.
Open guideRelated guide
Shy or reactive cats
Plan safe transfer and low-pressure access.
Open guideQuestions guardians ask
Clear answers before the request.
Care fit is confirmed only after Cats in the City reviews the complete profile and requested dates.
Is a soft carrier acceptable?
The carrier must be escape-resistant, structurally sound, appropriately sized, and suitable for the cat. Confirm current Cats in the City requirements.
Should I cover the carrier?
Some cats benefit from reduced visual exposure; others become warmer or more distressed. Maintain ventilation and use the cat’s known travel response.
Can two cats share one carrier?
Separate secure carriers are generally safer for transport and individual identification, even when cats share a boarding room.
Next step
Let the care plan start with the cat.
Share the dates, routine, health history, appetite pattern, medication needs, and room priorities. Cats in the City will review the request and confirm the appropriate location and pathway.