How To Go Kayaking With Your Cat

There is a stereotype that cats do not like water, but did you know that some cats actually enjoy it? Kayaking with your cat can be a great way to spice up your outdoor adventures! But keep in mind that it is not for every cat. Some cats can be terrified when in or around water and it can be very traumatizing and stressful for them. Also note that just because your cat does not mind water when just dipping their paws in, being out in the middle of the water on a boat can be a very different experience for them and they may not enjoy it. Regardless of how your cat feels about water, we recommend you do slow introductions to kayaking and going out on the water, and always be prepared that your cat may try to get out of the boat.

Before you go 

1. Cats can sense if you are nervous in a situation. It is important that you are comfortable with kayaking before you try going with your cat so that you can help them feel safe.
2. To see if your cat is comfortable with water, try taking them on hikes near slow moving ponds or lakes. It is natural for your cat to be wary of water, but eventually your cat may become comfortable around it. Never put your cat in water, always allow them to step in on their own. Otherwise, they could be scarred and never be okay near water.
3. Kayaking can include risks like capsizing, and if you find yourself in the water it is important to be prepared with knowing what to do in such situations. We recommend researching and practicing what to do should you find yourself in these situations before you head out on the water.

What you need

There are a few pieces of gear that we recommend you bring with you on your kayaking trip. 

1. Harness and leash – Keep your cat in a harness and on a leash. Should they fall in, this gives you something to easily grab a hold of to pull them back in. It is a good idea to keep a shorter leash while out on a kayak. Check out our blog on picking the right harness if you are wondering what type of harness to get for water related activities!
2. Backpack – This will provide a safe place for your cat to retreat to should they become scared. We have blog posts on how to pick the right backpack and how to get your cat to love the backpack if you want to check those out.
3. Life jacket – Always have a life jacket for you and your pet. Check your state’s laws as each is different and some do require by law that you have them. It is a good idea to get your cat used to wearing it before taking them out so they feel comfortable moving around in it. If the life jacket is bulking or restricting and your cat is not used to wearing it, there may be an increased risk in them falling overboard because they may be more clumsy and uncoordinated. 
4. Sunscreen – Since you are most likely going to be out in the sun, just like humans, cats can get sunburnt. There is sunscreen that is designed for pets that you can apply so they do not get a sunburn when out (whether it is while kayaking or not).
5. Water and snacks – Kayaking is a workout! Bring water and snacks so that you and your cat do not get fatigued or dehydrated. Wet food/squeezable treats are great for cats because they have a high water content and will keep your cat hydrated if they do not want to drink.
6. Towel – Even the most advanced kayakers will get wet. Always be prepared to dry your cat off in the event that they fall in.

Where to start kayaking

If you are new to kayaking, look for calm waters and places that are not too busy so that you can practice getting comfortable. If you are an experienced kayaker, but are new to bringing your cat along, we still recommend calm waters and less populated areas to help your cat adjust. Always double check that the place you are going to (especially when renting kayaks) is pet friendly!

How to start

Slow introduction is key to making sure your cat does not have any negative associations with the kayak. Here is a little step-by-step to ease your cat into kayaking:

1. Go out kayaking without your cat a few times until you are completely comfortable with it.
2. Let your cat sniff the kayak before putting it in the water. 
3. When moving the kayak to the water, do so away from your cat so they do not get scared of the noises.
4. Zip your cat into their backpack when loading up into the kayak.
5. Unzip the backpack once out in the water and allow your cat to come out at their own pace. You can offer them some treats if they seem uneasy.
6. Once out, offer treats or another form of positive reinforcement to let them know it is safe and they are doing a good job.
7. Do not force your cat out of the backpack at any time. Even if they come out on their own and enjoy it, but then go back in. You want everything they do to be on their terms to make them feel as safe and comfortable as possible.

Other tips to note

1. Watch for signs of stress
   • You know your cat best. Watch them for any signs of stress or anxiety when out on the water. If they are trying to jump and escape, panting or drooling, vocalizing in a stressful manner, aggressive behavior, trembling/shaking, scared look in their eyes, restless behavior, or any other signs that they are uncomfortable or not enjoying themselves, it would be best to turn around and get them out of the situation.
2. Always know where your cat is
   • Though you would most likely hear them if they jump off or fall in, if there is a lot of noise, you might not. Always keep an eye on your cat so you know where they are at all times.
3. Wear long sleeves
   • Not only does this protect you from sunburn, but it also helps protect you from getting too scratched up if your cat gets scared and tries to get away. 
4. Bring treats when they are doing well
   • Positive reinforcement is very important in training cats. If your cat is food motivated, treats are a great way to help them feel comfortable out there. If your cat is not food motivated, try other methods to reward your cat. It could be things such as their favorite toy or blanket or getting attention from you.
5. Stay calm
   • Again, your cats can sense if you are uneasy, and that can make them feel unsafe and nervous.  
6. Motion sickness
   • Cats can get motion sick/seasick just like people. If this happens to your cat, it is advised that you do not take them kayaking anymore with you.
7. Expect that they may not love it at first
   • Some cats may come out of the backpack right away when out kayaking, while others may stay in their backpack the entire time. That is okay. Cats do not always adjust to new experiences quickly, and as long as they are not traumatized or completely stressed out, it may be worth another shot. If they just napped or groomed themselves in the backpack and seemed unbothered, they may come out if you take them again.