How to Live in a Van with a Cat
By: Alexa J. Kehoe
Tags: Nomad, Vanlife, Cat, Rv Living, Travel

Living on the road is inconsistent in environments, schedules and routines; not necessarily ideal for pets who find security and trust in consistency. Keeping our pets needs in the forefront of our nomadic considerations is vital for their health, wellness and happiness.

Structure, comfort, routine and a reliable environment (despite an ever changing “back yard”) wasn’t so tough to provide for my dog — plus dogs tend to be very adaptable and trainable, though it did take some effort and adjustments for both of us.

When I met Robert and his Kitty, an indoor and outdoor cat, I was shocked at how smooth they made the transition from a consistent environment to an ever changing one without Kitty ever getting lost or frightened.

The same strong bond that keeps a dog close to its owner seems to be the rock Robert and Kitty’s relationship is built on. Robert has had her since she was a kitten (she’s about ten now) and has always allowed her to be an indoor and outdoor cat, but he put in some effort when she was young to ensure she returns home that he continues to reinforce.

Even though Kitty doesn’t obey “commands”, she does respond to his nonverbals (and treats) similar to a dog.

It has been fascinating to travel with Robert and Kitty, to watch how his home on wheels is adapted for both of them, and to see how he allows her freedom to roam while keeping her safe.

Robert and I sat down to discuss how he lives successfully in a van with a cat (a cat that wanders around each camp but always comes home!) and are eager to share his thoughts and experiences. Here is the quick take from that conversation:

Cats are very hard to train and have an independent streak. Robert has trained Kitty that whenever she comes back home (and now to the van) she gets treats — whether she comes in from him calling her name or she comes in of her own volition. Robert trades up in value as needed, keeping a chicken breast on hand for moments he really needs her to come home.

Robert keeps food and water always available in the van for Kitty so she doesn’t need to go hunt to satisfy her hunger; she knows there is value in sticking close to home.

When training the cat for freedoms it is important to adapt to the individual cat personality. Start with acclimating them to the home (on wheels) environment and slowly give them outside freedom for limited timeframes (progressing in time with success) and always within eye sight.

In new environments, it’s important for the human to walk a large perimeter to ensure safety — looking for signs of coyote or other predator activity and other dangers a cat could encounter. Don’t let the cat roam unless you feel it is safe and you can watch the cat.

Don’t let the cat out at dawn, dusk or dark when predators are most active and it will be hard or impossible to monitor them.

Be comfortable that having any pet has risks attached which are compounded when you give them freedom in constantly changing environments. There is a risk of a cat running away when it is given freedom outside.

The leash and harness method is a good way to ensure cat safety when allowed outside. Robert didn’t have success getting his cat to tolerate a harness and leash but he sees the value in it, especially if you start the training with them when they are kittens and for those cats that can’t be trusted to come back for food.

Male cats have a more natural instinct to wander so a female may be better for nomadic life.

In a van the litter box (for Robert at least) fits best between the driver and passenger seat. Pine pellet litter doesn’t track around the van like traditional litter and can also be used as compost material for the human litter bucket!

A litter box and cat hair in a small space means you need to be prepared for daily cleaning and sweeping. Frequent brushings can help especially with longer haired cats.

Robert hasn’t had any issues with fleas, ticks or mites, but he does seasonally treat Kitty with medicated repellant. Natural or commercial monthly topical anti-flea and mite treatments are essential for any nomadic pet.

Make sure you have enough ventilation, insulation, fans, and heat sources to keep your pet comfortable year round. Potentially follow a “snow bird schedule” (north in summer, south in winter) to ensure their (and your!) comfort.

Roberts final advice is to be a good owner and let the cat be a cat!

A cats companionship is priceless and with some considerations and adaptations they make a great nomadic fur-friend!

Watch a video version of this interview here: