Emergency and Disaster Preparedness for Cats
My wife and I have 13 cats (yes, 13!) and our town has recently been through both unexpected flooding AND forest fires. Those events led me to want to be extra prepared in the event that something similar were to happen again - disasters can strike unexpectedly, whether it’s a wildfire, hurricane, or even an extended power outage. As cat people, it’s crucial to be prepared to ensure the safety and well-being of our feline companions. With my good friend and trusted veterinarian Dr Gina Rendon (of Williamsburg Vets) I drew up a step-by-step guide to creating an emergency preparedness plan for your cats, balancing practicality and peace of mind.
Essential Components of a Cat Emergency Kit
Creating a well-stocked emergency kit is the foundation of disaster preparedness for your pets. Here’s what to include (click here for a downloadable checklist for you and your cat):
Food and Water:
Food: Enough for 3–7 days. Dry food is ideal as it stores well without refrigeration.
Water: About one cup per cat per day (per 10 lbs of body weight). Include a collapsible bowl.
Carrier: A sturdy carrier that your cat is familiar with, ideally made cozy with a blanket or towel.
Litter Supplies:
Collapsible litter box.
Litter in a sealed bag or container.
Biodegradable poop bags for disposal.
Medications and First Aid:
A 7-day supply of medications.
Basic first-aid supplies: gauze, tweezers, saline, and a thermometer (specific for animals).
Sedatives or calming aids, if prescribed by your vet (gabapentin, trazodone) .
Identification:
Updated microchip registration.
Collar with ID tags (name, phone number).
Photos of your cat (with you) for identification if separated.
Comfort Items:
Toys, familiar bedding, or a scratcher to reduce stress.
Feliway spray or diffuser to create a calming environment.
Preparing Your Home
Designate a safe room for shelter-in-place scenarios, such as a storm or earthquake. This space should:
Be free of windows and breakable objects.
Contain emergency supplies like food, water, and litter boxes.
Be equipped with familiar comforts, such as their carrier and bedding.
Evacuation Preparedness
Training for Carriers:
Keep carriers out in your home as part of the furniture.
Train cats to associate carriers with positive experiences using treats and toys.
Transportation Tips:
Cover carriers with a blanket to reduce stress.
Plan for multiple carriers or a larger vehicle if you have many cats (e.g., a minivan for larger households).
Use disposable feeding trays for easier cleanup.
Special Considerations for Vulnerable Cats
Senior cats, kittens, or those with health issues may need extra care. Ensure their medications are packed and consult with your vet for additional precautions.
For multiple-cat households, establish a recall sound for emergencies. This sound can prompt them to gather in one area or enter their carriers.
Post-Emergency Care
After the immediate danger has passed:
Gradually reintroduce your cat to their usual environment.
Monitor their eating and drinking habits closely as stress can affect appetite.
Check for injuries or unusual behavior and consult your vet as needed.
By taking small, manageable steps, you can create a robust disaster plan that protects your beloved cats. Start with the basics—gather supplies, familiarize your cats with carriers, and train recall behaviors. Click here for a downloadable preparedness schedule! Over time, these preparations will ensure that you and your feline family are ready to face any emergency calmly and confidently.