Pre-Trip Vet Visit Checklist

A pre-trip vet visit is especially important if you're planning a long road trip, crossing state lines, or if your cat hasn't traveled before. Even for shorter trips, it's worth a quick check-in if your cat has any ongoing health issues.

What to Discuss

General Health Check

Make sure vaccinations are current, especially rabies. If you're crossing state lines, most states require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (also called a health certificate) issued within 10 days of travel. Your vet can tell you exactly what your destination state requires.

Motion Sickness

If your cat has vomited or drooled heavily on past car rides, ask about anti-nausea options. Maropitant (Cerenia) is commonly prescribed for cats and can make a dramatic difference. Details are in the motion sickness guide.

Travel Anxiety

For cats that panic in the car, gabapentin is widely used as a mild sedative and anti-anxiety medication. It's given as a single dose before travel. Your vet can advise on dosing and timing — usually 60 to 90 minutes before departure. More on this in the travel medications article.

Chronic Conditions

If your cat takes daily medications, make sure you have enough to last the entire trip plus a few extra days. Ask your vet for a written summary of your cat's medical history and current medications — useful if you need to visit an emergency vet on the road.

Paperwork to Bring

Proof of current rabies vaccination
Health certificate (if crossing state lines)
Your vet's contact information
Written medication list and dosing instructions
Your cat's microchip number

Tip: Ask your vet to email you copies of all documents. Having digital backups on your phone means you won't lose them in transit.

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