Cat Disaster Kits
Here are some items you want to be sure to include in your cat or kitten’s disaster kit:
You should keep canned food in your kit, as it lasts longer – just be sure to check the expiration dates regularly. Nothing is worse than a can with no opener, so be sure to have one of those too, along with a bowl and a spoon. If your cat can’t eat a full can in one sitting, remember to keep a can lid handy as well.
You should have at least 3 days worth of water in your kit (don’t forget a bowl!) We like this collapsible kind, but any container could work.
Disasters are scary! Having familiar smells will help keep your cat calm. Putting an old blanket and favorite toy in your kit will help your pet get through stressful situations
Your cat will need somewhere to go should you need to evacuate. We like these cardboard litter pans, but any small pan will do. Don’t forget a scoop or some pet clean up bags. Don’t worry about litter – a scoop of dirt will work in a pinch!
Even if your cat doesn’t normally wear one, put a collar with ID tags in your kit and once you are someplace secure, put it on your cat. A cat can escape in a flash, and its collar will help her find her way back to you.
Ever tried to get a scared cat into a tiny box? Its much easier to get your cat into an Evac sack or pillow case first, then into a secure crate for travel.
Keep up to date medical records on your pet, including vaccine history. Some emergency shelters may require it to house your pet. Also, keep a week’s worth of your pet’s medication in your kit – watch the expiration dates!
Keep several copies of a current, color photo of both you and your pet. The photo should show your pet’s face as well as as much of its body as possible. You may need to post them as lost posters, or as proof of ownership to reclaim your pet if it gets lost.
Jiffy Tags are a great way to protect your pet if you are on vacation when disaster strikes. Just fill them in with the location you are temporarily staying, and attach to his collar alongside his regular ID tag.
A basic First Aid kit could prove useful in a disaster. Much of what you find in a human kit is fine for your pet as well, so you don’t necessarily have to purchase a special one just for him.
You may need to evacuate to a nearby hotel or motel. Keep a list of pet friendly places in your kit so you know where to go.
Pet Friendly Hotels in Monterey and San Luis Obispo Counties
Print your own Emergency Wallet card to keep on you
Want a more complete list of items to add to your kit? Click here
