How To Get Your Cat Back Into Exploring After A Break

As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, many cat owners are looking for new spots to adventure and explore. Depending on where you live, adventuring may be put on hold during some parts of the year. If you live where it gets too cold in the winter or too hot in the summer, you may take a month or longer break from going outside with your cat. Unfortunately, this can sometimes cause your cat to “forget” the outdoors. Your cat may need some help getting back into the routine of adventures. So, whether you are a seasoned pro or a new cat owner looking into getting into adventuring this year, this article will provide the essentials on how to get your cat back into exploring after a break so you both can hit the trails together!

Take it slow

Start to get your cat used to the outside by taking short trips. This can be just out around your yard or apartment. Try to take these trips when it is quiet so that your cat can enjoy it without being on guard. Too much stimulation at once can be overwhelming. If your cat isn’t too sure of the harness and leash anymore, practice inside. You can start with putting the harness on them and playing or giving them treats, to help them remember the harness is a good thing. Check out this blog post for a more in depth look on how to get your cat used to their harness if you are looking for starting from scratch. 

Car rides

It is also a good idea to start getting them used to the car. When the weather isn’t ideal for outdoor explorations, you can still practice car rides. Again, take it slow at first. The first step may be sitting in the car without it on. Work your way up to turning the car on, taking short drives down the street, and eventually further. We have an article on how to get your cat used to car rides here. We also have an article on how to help with motion sickness if your cat experiences that too.

Make sure the gear fits

It is a good idea to make sure that the harness still fits your cat. It should fit snug so that your cat can not get out of it, but not too tight so that they are uncomfortable. A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to fit 2 fingers under it. 

Build up to longer distances

Take your cats physical fitness and age into account when getting back to hiking. Start with easy trails that will allow your cat to get back into shape and work your way up to harder ones. Older cats and kittens shouldn’t be expected to hike long distances. Slowly build up the distances you hike with your cat so that they do not get exhausted and will enjoy their outings. It is also a good idea to start the hikes in the mornings or in the evenings so that you miss the afternoon heat. We have a great article on how to keep your cat cool during the summer heat here. 

Update pet ID tags

Did you move or get a new phone number since you were last out on the trails? Updating your pet id tags is a super important task to do so that if you cat was to get out the information is up to date so that you can be reached. It is also a good idea to get your cat microchipped. Microchips store your contact information that can be scanned at most vet offices and shelters.

Have a backup plan

Just know that the first adventure back at it after a break may not go as planned. Your cat may be more fearful than before and feel uneasy outside. Be sure you go to a place that you can leave quickly if needed. Bringing a backpack is great for carrying your cat if they are scared, and gives them a place to hide if they prefer to not walk themselves. But if your cat is showing signs of stress, it is best to turn around that day, and start with something smaller, like your yard, and work back up to hiking trails.

Check in with your vet

With warmer weather comes ticks, mosquitos, and other insects. Mosquitoes carry heartworm, which can be transmitted to your cat and make them very sick. Ticks are also a concern, not just for your cats, but you too. Always check your cat when you get home for any ticks. There are preventatives you can give your cat, so talk to your vet if you have any questions. A rabies shot is typically required by law for all pets to have, so make sure your cat is up to date on that as well.

Remember to pack the essentials. 

Besides bringing what you may need for a hike, when bringing along your cat there are a few other items you need to bring for your cat. 

• Cat backpack

  • If your cat doesn’t want to walk or gets tired carrying them in the backpack is a great solution. This allows you to keep going, and your cat can just enjoy the view without the work.
  • If your cat gets scared, the backpack can offer a hiding spot for them as well.

• Extra water for you and your cat

  • Make sure to bring plenty of water for both you and your cat. It’s easy to become dehydrated when you’re tackling a tough trail, especially in warm weather. Some cats may not want to drink when outside, but wet food or squeeze up treats can be a great alternative to get some moisture into them.

• A snack for your cat

  • Hiking burns a yt5hnlot of calories and if you’re in need of a snack, your cat is probably in need of one as well. Portable lightweight snacks are super easy to transport and are easy to give to your cat. Our cats really love Tiki Sticks. 
  • Treats are also a great way to help your cat feel comfortable, if they are food motivated. You can offer them some treats while out to help them relax.

• Portable litter box

  • When duty calls it is always great to have one. Though your cat can just go outside, we find that some cats refuse to go without a litter present. If your cat does do their business outside, just make sure to have some poop bags with you to clean up after them.

• Pet First Aid Kit 

  • Accidents happen and being prepared is key. Having items to clean and wrap a wound can make a huge difference. Check out our blog on what we consider are must haves in every first aid kit. 

• Pet sunscreen 

  • Just like people, pets can get sunburn. Applying sunscreen to your feline can save them a lot of discomfort later. 

With warm weather coming quickly, it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure that your cat will have the best experience possible while out adventuring. Hopefully, your cat remembers all the fun it had outside on previous adventures! But if not, we hope this post can help your cat get back into exploring after a break you took. Whatever the reason for the break, we are happy you’re getting back into exploring new places with your adventure buddy.