Tips for Travelling with your Tortie

Whether your tortoiseshell cat is a confident explorer or a shy homebody, hitting the road together can be both rewarding and challenging. We know that it can be a struggle getting her to the vet (have had many stressful journeys with Flo in the car).

Torties are famously spirited and independent - which means travel needs extra preparation and patience. But with the right planning, you can make the journey comfortable (and even enjoyable!) for both of you.

Here are a few tips to ensure a smooth ride with your tortie cat

1. Start with a Trial Run

Before you attempt a long trip, take your tortie on a short drive. Gauge her comfort level in the carrier and car. Torties are known for their big personalities—some take to travel like pros, others need more time to adjust.

Tip: Use treats and praise to build positive associations with the car and carrier.

2. Pick the Right Carrier

Invest in a well-ventilated, sturdy carrier with a cozy blanket or item that smells like home. Torties often prefer their own space—this carrier becomes their safe zone. Make sure it’s large enough for stretching, but not so big that she slides around during motion.

Pro tip: Hard-sided carriers offer more protection, especially for air travel.

She is a classic tortie with a perfect dark yellow split down the middle of her nose. It’s so adorable and pretty!

 3. Visit the Vet Before You Go

Schedule a pre-travel checkup. Ensure vaccinations are up to date, and ask your vet about motion sickness remedies or mild sedatives if your cat is especially anxious. Get a printed health certificate if you’re flying or crossing state lines—it’s often required.

Don’t let a surprise vet bill torpedo your budget

Routine vet checkups are rising, and some surgeries can cost as much as a holiday in Europe. Fortunately, pet insurance can help offset these unexpected costs. With some policies starting at $10 and reimbursing up to 90%, you can keep your pet healthy without sacrificing your savings.

PROTECT YOUR PET AND WALLET

4. Pack Like a Pro

Here’s a tortie travel checklist:

• Favorite food and treats

• Portable litter box and litter

• Bowls for food and water

• Toys and scratching pad

• Medications

• Pet first-aid kit
  

• Torties are famously finicky, so don’t switch brands of food or litter during travel unless absolutely necessary.

5. Stay Calm—and Give Her Space

Torties are known for their “tortitude”—a mix of sass, independence, and affection on their own terms. Respect her cues during travel. Keep noise to a minimum, don’t force affection, and check in regularly to see how she’s doing.

6. Choose Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Whether you’re road-tripping or flying, book pet-friendly hotels or rentals in advance. Upon arrival, let your cat explore one room at a time to reduce stress. Set up her litter box and feeding station right away.

7. Keep Her Identified

Make sure your tortie wears a breakaway collar with ID tags and is microchipped. Travel can bring unexpected escapes, and having multiple forms of ID increases your chances of a safe reunion.

Final Thought:

Traveling with a tortoiseshell cat may not be as simple as a weekend getaway with a dog—but it’s certainly full of character, curiosity, and moments of surprising affection. With patience and preparation, your tortie can become a confident (and very stylish) travel companion.

Do you travel with your tortie? Let us know on our X, Facebook and Instagram pages.

Look out for the next Tortie of the Week next week!