![\"Cat](\"https:\/\/www.catster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cat-6.png\")
<\/p>\nThe chances are that most of the nearly 32 million pet cats in the United States spend their lives indoors. Statistics show that 68% of Americans don\u2019t give their pets outdoor access compared to 90% of UK residents. The people most likely to let their cats outside are 46 years or older. One way that many may choose to provide welcome mental stimulation for their pets is by hiking with them.<\/p>\n
Physical activity is an excellent way to support good health for you and your cat. However, there are several things you should know before you hit the trails to make it a fun and safe experience for both of you.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
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All cats should get four core vaccinations, including rabies and feline panleukopenia (FPL). Other non-core options exist for pets at a higher risk of diseases they might get exposed to. If you want to take your kitty hiking with you, we strongly urge you to discuss your pet\u2019s health care needs with your vet, considering their increased risk of exposure by going outdoors.<\/p>\n
Other vaccines<\/a> your vet may recommend include feline leukemia disease complex and feline chlamydiosis.<\/p>\n If your cat goes outside even for short periods, putting your pet on a flea<\/a> and tick preventative is a no-brainer. It\u2019s not a matter of if<\/em> your cat will get infected but when<\/em>. You\u2019re probably going hiking when these pests are most prevalent. Remember that fleas won\u2019t stay on your cat once you get home; they\u2019ll likely infest any place where your pet roams.<\/p>\n Remember that some ticks can carry Lyme disease, making a lack of prevention a serious threat to your family\u2019s health. That\u2019s particularly true if you live in the Northeast or Upper Midwest<\/a>, which have the highest incidence rates in the country.<\/p>\n Unless you have a very obedient cat (which is unlikely), you\u2019re better off putting a leash<\/a> on your cat while on the trail. Something could scare your pet and cause them to run from you. Your path may cross one with a dog that isn\u2019t as fond of felines. Of course, many other things can occur, making securing your cat the safest option.<\/p>\n The best cat leashes are sturdy, comfortable to hold, and easy to attach to the harness. Hepper's Cat Harness & Leash Set<\/strong><\/a> offers all that and more, which is why we highly recommend it.<\/p>\r\n \n This set includes a lightweight velvet and mesh harness with reinforced stitching, quick-release buckles, and reflective strips, plus a five-foot leash made from sturdy nylon climbing rope. We especially love this leash's rotating clamp and padded neoprene handle.<\/p>\r\n At Catster, we\u2019ve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!<\/em><\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/div>\n You\u2019ll undoubtedly be transporting your cat to the car in a carrier. You might consider getting a collapsible one that you can tuck inside your backpack for the same reasons we suggest putting your pet on a leash. It\u2019s an excellent way to keep your cat dry in case it rains. If the trail is too busy, at least your kitty will have the security of four walls around them to help relieve their stress.<\/p>\n The mere thought of anything happening to our precious cats strikes fear in our hearts. It\u2019s one reason we\u2019d never consider taking any<\/strong> pet hiking without some identification, whether it\u2019s an ID tag with contact information or microchipping. If your cat is a friendly animal, someone will likely find it and get in touch with you if the means exist to do so.<\/p>\n Planning your trip is always a smart idea. However, it\u2019s especially important if it\u2019s your cat\u2019s first time on the trail. If possible, opt to hike on a less trafficked path. After all, your pet is going to be on sensory overload with the new experience.<\/p>\n Undoubtedly, your goal is to make it as fun and stress-free as possible. Contact the park you want to visit for suggestions about where to hike.<\/p>\n If hiking is going to be a regular thing for you and your cat, you might consider getting a GPS tracker<\/a> for your pet. You\u2019ll have the peace of mind of knowing you can find your feline companion quickly if it should go off the trail. Again, we suggest getting your cat used to wearing the device before heading for the trailhead.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re going out for an extended hike, you\u2019ll find a disposable litter box handy, especially if you plan on camping. It\u2019ll be easier to clean up after your pet. It\u2019ll also minimize the time your cat is roaming through the brush looking for a suitable place to do their business.<\/p>\n It\u2019s imperative to bring along water and a travel bowl for your cat. Your pet is going to get thirsty on the trail, too. Even though felines don\u2019t drink as much as canines, they still need a break every now and then to rest, particularly if the terrain is rough. We also suggest a small tarp for a makeshift lean-to shelter for your pet so that they can get out of the sun if necessary.<\/p>\n It bears repeating to practice at home before going outdoors for your first big adventure. Get your pet used to the harness and leash. You might also consider taking your cat in the car for a few rides so that the experience is less traumatic. Then, you can start with a walk on familiar grounds in the neighborhood. This dress rehearsal will help you fine-tune your routine before going to a new place.<\/p>\n While you are trying to cover all the bases for your pet, do not forget to take care of yourself. We recommend packing a first-aid kit with medicaments for you and your cat. An over-the-counter antibiotic ointment can take care of minor cuts and abrasions that may occur on the trail. Don\u2019t forget to put a tube of cortisone cream in your bag as well!<\/p>\n Hiking with your cat is a rewarding way to enjoy the outdoors<\/a> and provide welcome mental stimulation for you and your pet. It\u2019ll also provide an excellent bonding experience while offering a fun<\/a> way to stay healthy with physical activity. A little preparation and planning before you travel will make your hike a satisfying time for both of you.<\/p>\n
\n2. Flea and Tick Preventive\u2014A Must-Have<\/h3>\n
\n3. Leash Up With a Harness<\/h3>\n
![\"bengal](\"https:\/\/www.catster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/bengal-cat-on-a-leash_Amerigo_images-Shutterstock.jpg\")
\r\n\n\n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n ![\"Hepper](\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41hwNM-taGL._SL160_.jpg\")
\n <\/a>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n \n Hepper Cat Harness and Leash Escape Proof Set -... <\/a>\n \n \n\n \n \n \n <\/div>\n\n Check Price on Amazon<\/a>\n <\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n \n<\/div>\n<\/p>\r\n
\n4. Traveling Carrier<\/h3>\n
\n5. Collar With an ID Tag or Microchipping<\/h3>\n
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\n6. Smart Planning<\/h3>\n
\n7. GPS Tracking<\/h3>\n
![\"cat](\"https:\/\/www.catster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/cat-wearing-gps-collar_Nils-Jacobi_Shutterstock.jpg\")
\n8. Disposable Litter Box<\/h3>\n
\n9. Keeping Them Cool<\/h3>\n
![\"cat](\"https:\/\/www.catster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/cat-drinks-water_AltamashUrooj_Shutterstock-1.jpg\")
\n10. Practice<\/h3>\n
\nBonus Tip: Bring a First-Aid Kit<\/h3>\n
![\"Cat](\"https:\/\/www.catster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Cat-with-first-aid-kit_absolutimages_Shutterstock.jpg\")
![\"cat](\"https:\/\/www.catster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cats-1-1.png\")
<\/p>\nConclusion<\/h2>\n