Best carrier for a long car journey

[qwertina]

We are moving house soon and it is 3 hour car journey away, in good traffic. I'm looking for a comfortable carrier, we only use cheapo plastic one for vet trips. I would appreciate any recommendations.

Also, I'm worried it might be very hot. Do we offer him any water or food during the journey? He's 14, I'm worried how he'll cope.

We've got one of these for Harry Cat Cabrio as we take him on holiday with us if we go to MIL's holiday cottage.

It's quite roomy (and heavy!) and has removable trays so you can give him some food and water.

I had a plastic one but recently bought a folding fabric one instead. It has mesh windows all round & seems really comfortable. I've only used it for a 40 minute journey mind you.

Hang on, I'll get you a link

\link{http://www.zooplus.co.uk/shop/dogs/dog_cages_carriers/folding_dog_kennels/157146\it was this one} but mine is Small & was on the cat carrier page - now they only seem to have medium & large. It's very handy for storing as they fold completely flat.

Small is big enough for 2 small cats, so medium will be a bit massive - he could have a party

\link{http://www.zooplus.co.uk/shop/cats/cat_carriers_travel/cat_carriers_kennels\they have others too, in different sizes}

I'd get a sturdy, roomy one with a plastic bottom (in case of accidents) and plenty ventilation. Best also to make sure that is has some means to secure it properly inside the car - you don't want it flying through the air in the event of a shunt. I always put a light coverlet over it (while ensuring some good ventilation) to provide some feeling of security. I always have to leave a little bit of sightline, though, because my boys like to see me, if possible, while they're travelling.

I'd take some water and food with you and maybe offer it - but don't be surprised if he won't take any during the journey. None of my cats have ever eaten or drunk on journeys and while I always take a tray with me, they usually won't use that either. It's main use is that you've got it ready when you get to the other end and can just whip it and the cat/food/water into a room at the new place and let him recover in peace.

(If you're going to offer food/water/tray remember not to do it while the car is moving. You absolutely don't want him to escape the box and be on the loose in a car which is going. (Nipping quickly into a service station or layby is best.))

Best of luck

PS - Seniorboy did his last long journey (7 hours plus) when he was 16.

In addition to everything else suggested start zylkene 7 days before journey and spray Feliway in carrier and car 15 minutes before cat gets in.

If you persuade current occupants of house to plug Feliway diffuser in the day before it would be great if not plug in 15 mins before cat goes in room.

Thank you everyone, checking out all the suggestions now.

I ordered Feliway and will order Zylkene too.