Boating Adventures With Your Feline Friend: Tips on How to Stay Safe

Believe it or not, cats are one of the well-known critters that sailors bring onboard their ships or fishing boats. This might confuse you since it’s a well-known fact that cats hate water, so the idea of being cooped up in a vessel surrounded by a vast body of water is their ultimate nightmare.

But you’re in for a surprise; in the olden times, cats were deployed by sailors on their vessels to hunt and kill mice and rats that infested their ships. These rodents destroy everything the sailors have on board, especially their food reserves and cats serve as helpful creatures to control these rodents from wreaking havoc on boats.

But aside from cats being useful hunters, they are also a great company to be with. They are fluffy, cuddly, and warm! They can also be fiercely independent which is easy for their owners to take care of them. Plus, they can be silly and playful, which can be entertaining to watch.

If you own a pet cat, you know that it’s hard to be away from them. Especially if you sail often and are away for long periods, it can be worrisome to leave them alone. And sometimes, it can be quite a hassle to always ask a friend to sit for them while you’re away. So, the best option for you to do is to let your cat join you on your boating adventures aboard your Yellowfin boat.

If you haven’t taken your cat along with you on your boating trips, it can be daunting to bring them along since they could get themselves in mischief and danger. However, you don’t need to worry about such things. If you are in tune with your cat and you know how to handle them, taking them along on your boat will be a breeze. If you prepare well and practice safety precautions while you’re navigating your boat in the open water, having your kitty as your boatmate can be a very memorable trip for you.

Take the Necessary Precautions Before You Set Out for Your Trip

Before the day of the trip arrives, prepare all the necessary activities and precautions you need to take. Consult a vet and ask for advice on how you can handle your cat when you’re boating.

Another great idea that you can try is to take your cat to a beach and see how he will react to his surroundings. Cats can be unpredictable at times; cats may generally hate water but some tolerate or even at least love being near water. Make sure your cat is relaxed as you walk around the beach. Let him explore the surroundings on his terms. If he has no problem being around water, then this is your sign to bring him along on your trip. If he panics to the point that he’s distressed, don’t push him and calm him down. Ask for your vet’s advice on how you can make him tolerate water and new surroundings.

When bringing your cat along on your trip, make sure to prepare all his toys, snacks, litter box, and medications (if he takes any). Prepare safety equipment such as harnesses and life vests that your cat should wear while onboard your boat at all times.

Being Onboard with Your Cat

Find a safe spot or nook of your boat for your cat to rest and lounge in. Set up his small bed there along with his toys and snacks. Place their water and food close to their space. When your cat is on board, let your cat get the feel of the boat by letting him sniff around. Make sure your boat is still anchored on the dock while your furry friend is getting used to the new surroundings. Be near and observe him while he explores around. Having you around and smelling your scent can assure him that he is in a safe place.

You know your cat has adjusted to the surroundings if he flops himself in a relaxed position. Once he is satisfied, you can now sail out into the open waters.

Safety First

You know that safety is of the utmost importance while you’re on board your boat at all times. Having your feline pet on board just makes it even more vital for you to observe safety at all times. Get a life vest that is suitable for your cat. If you can’t find any available life vests for cats, you can purchase life vests for small dogs that would fit an adult cat. Make sure he is wearing the vest at all times while he’s on the boat.

One thing you don’t have to worry about is the cat falling overboard. We know that’s your biggest worry when you’re taking your cat for a sailing trip but remember, cats are cautious animals and they are not always reckless. However, if they get too comfortable in your boat, they will be more playful and sometimes forget the place they are situated in. Just to be on the safe side, put up safety railing nets around the railings of your boat to keep him from falling. Wipe your boat floors from any spillage to prevent your cat from slipping.

Looking for safety items to stow in your boat? Here at Cavs Marine & Outdoor, we are more than just boat and engine dealers and outboard servicing mechanics; we are also a boat shop that sells various marine gear and boating equipment that will aid you in your boating endeavours. Aside from marine products, we also supply outdoor power equipment. So, whether you’re looking for life vests or a riding lawn mower, we got you. Peruse our online shop or drop us a line by clicking this link for any inquiries regarding our products.

Make Your Cat Feel Relaxed at All Times

Keep your cat cool by providing him with fresh water at all times. If it gets hot and humid, trickle a few water droplets on your kitty’s neck to keep themselves from overheating. Place a cooling pad in their nook if you take a trip on a hot summer day.

Just like us humans, animals can get seasick too. Prepare a first aid kit for your cat such as anti-nausea medicine to help them with their motion sickness. Prepare a lot of toilet paper and disinfectant to clean up any messes, just in case.

Take Care of the Kitty Litter Box

Place your cat’s litter box in a safe location where the cat can easily access it while the smell won’t bother anyone on board. Make sure the litter that you use effectively masks the cat’s smelly waste. Show your kitty where his litter box is. Try to avoid moving the litter box so he won’t get confused about finding his litter box.

By following the tips mentioned above, you’re assured that you will have an easy time with your kitty friend while you’re fishing and exploring new places.