(Probably) no one questions it about dogs, but you might also be wondering, “Can I really take a cat camping?” The answer is absolutely you can – but only under the right circumstances. With the right planning and prep, camping with a cat can be a fun and rewarding experience for you both. Let’s dive into everything you need to know and what to do if you end up with a “lost cat” situation.

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First things first, though:

You should only go camping with a cat if…

  • They’re leash & harness-trained
    At the very least. Cats are notorious escape artists and can wriggle free from any harness. Even worse if they aren’t used to wearing one or even panic in unfamiliar settings.
  • Your cat isn’t THAT much of an explorer
    Meaning they don’t stray too far. (And come back when called 90% of the time.) You need to be confident that your cat can obey and stay close.
  • Traveling by car doesn’t freak them out
    Some cats are fine with car rides. Others…not so much. Check out our guide on car travel with a cat for some tips.
  • Your cat doesn’t mind unfamiliar environments
    If yours spooks easily in unfamiliar places, or from loud noises or changes in routine, camping might be overwhelming.
  • Your cat isn’t overly territorial
    If your cat needs to show the other animals who’s boss, the outdoors might not be the best choice. Likewise, an intact cat (not spayed or neutered) could be more likely to run off in search of mates.
  • There aren’t a ton of predators where you’re camping
    Any passing bear or wolf or even badger won’t think twice before attacking a random newcomer that’s wandered into their turf.

💡With a cat GPS tracker, you can set up a virtual “safe zone” around your campsite – and get an escape alert if your cat ventures past it. Or track their movements in real-time via your device in case they disappear and now you’re busy searching for them. So you can keep them safe by your side with just a glance at your phone.

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How to help your cat get used to “camping”

If you’re keen on going camping with a cat, the goal is to ease them into things. With some patience and consistency, you CAN train your cat with positive reinforcement methods like clicker training. But don’t expect them to be as responsive or obedient as dogs. 

Rather:

Start with short outdoor sessions

Sit in your backyard or on your porch with your cat in a harness. Let them explore at their own pace while keeping a close eye on them. Gradually increase the length of time you spend outside, ensuring they’re comfortable each time. Offer treats and praise during outdoor sessions to help your cat associate the experience with something enjoyable.

This is also a great time to slowly introduce your cat to a leash and eventually a harness. Remember: an off-leash cat at a campsite is a recipe for disaster, so don’t skip out on this!

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Get your cat used to a carrier

If you’re camping with your cat, they’ll likely need a safe space where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. A pet carrier can provide this space, but it’s important to make sure your cat is comfortable with it. Make sure to familiarize them with the carrier by placing it in a familiar area of your home. Leave the door open so your cat can explore it. Add soft bedding and a few treats inside to make it inviting.

If you aren’t already, start by taking your cat on short car rides in the carrier. Just sitting inside the car in a carrier can be a good starting point. This will also help them get used to being confined for longer periods without stress. Give them treats when they stay quietly inside and a ton of pats and praise.

Get your cat used to the sights & sounds of camping

The great outdoors can be full of unfamiliar sounds and smells that may cause stress for some cats. To help them adjust, consider exposing them to the sensory experience of camping before the actual trip.

  • Outdoor excursions
    Take your cat on trips to local parks or nature reserves. You could even walk them through different types of environments, like forests, beaches, or fields, so they get used to various natural surroundings.
  • Campfire practice
    If you plan to have a campfire at your campsite, get your cat used to fire sounds in a safe way. Play a video of the sound of cracking fire. Or try having small controlled fire practices in your backyard to ease them into the experience.
  • Nature walks with a harness
    Which can be a great way to introduce them to the sights and sounds they’ll encounter during camping. This will give them the opportunity to safely explore while you keep an eye on them.

Remember: your cat might take to a harness like a trooper, but they might still not be as obedient while “walking” like dogs. Your cat isn’t a dog, so it’ll help to keep your expectations realistic.

A cat walking outdoors on a harness

Do an overnight “camping” trial

Set up your tent in your backyard or living room and spend the night with your cat inside. This gives your cat a sense of what it’s like to sleep in an unfamiliar space. (While still being close to the comfort of home.) Allow your cat to explore the tent while it’s still in your yard. Place a blanket or favorite toy inside the tent to help them feel secure.

If you’re comfortable with it, spend the night in the tent outdoors with your cat. This will allow them to get used to the nighttime sounds of nature and the closeness of the tent environment. You can also practice your camping routine with your cat, including feeding times, litter box use, and nighttime rest. This helps your cat get used to the camping schedule while keeping a sense of normalcy.

Throughout, keep an eye on how your cat is responding. Some cats may adapt quickly to new experiences, others may need more time to adjust. If your cat hides, hisses, or refuses to engage, slow down. They might just need more time to get used to things.

What can I do with my cat while out camping?

Camping with a cat can be a blast and it’s a great way to create new memories together. While together, you two could:

  • Explore your campsite
    While on a leash and harness, of course. Let them sniff around, check out the scenery, and interact with any other campgoers or pets if they’re comfortable. Don’t force an interaction, though. (That’ll just send them scampering back to their carrier.)
  • Let your cat explore any natural “scratching posts” nearby
    If your cat is used to a long line, let them explore some trees or rocks nearby which they can climb. Make sure to keep them “leashed” to you as much as possible to avoid any escapes into the undergrowth.
  • Go hiking together
    With your cat firmly leashed to your side or in your backpack if a long walk tires them out. Check out our guide on how to hike with a cat for some more tips.
  • Play together outdoors
    Pack some of your cat’s favorite toys and spend some time playing together. This can help your cat relax and get more comfortable in the outdoors. It’s also a good way for you two to enjoy each other’s company after a day of exploring.
  • Take a ton of photos together
    Camping is the perfect backdrop for some adorable cat photos. Like when your cat’s exploring the tent, lounging in the sun, or even striking a pose by your campsite setup. Just make sure you’re patient and let your cat be comfortable. You’ll have some cute memories to look back on!
A young couple camping with a cat in summer

Essential gear you’ll need on your camping trip

Besides your cat’s leash, harness, carrier, and of course, your tent, don’t forget to bring along:

  • Enough food & water
    Including collapsible or travel-friendly food and water bowls, plus some extra snacks to tempt your cat to stay within the camp perimeter.
  • A portable litter box
    You might be tempted to let your cat do their business in the wild, in which case go prepared with poo bags and gloves to dispose of it safely. You want to avoid any wild animals coming too close to investigate who this newcomer is!
  • A pet first aid kit
    Which isn’t too different to one you might use, including basic supplies like antiseptic wipes, bandages, and tweezers. Don’t forget your cat’s medications and any tick removal tools. If it’s hot outdoors, consider carrying a pet-safe sunscreen.
  • Cat bed or blanket
    Ideally, the one they use at home to help them feel more at home.
  • Cleaning supplies
    Like pet wipes for cleaning dirt or mud, paper towels and cleaning cloths for campsite messes. 
  • Cooling & heating supplies (if necessary)
    Like a cooling mat for warm weather or a heated blanket or pet-safe heating pad for cold nights.

Where a cat GPS tracker can be a handy emergency measure

We know you’d never cut corners when it comes to keeping your cat safe. But at a campsite, there’s always the chance they might wander off, especially in unfamiliar environments. (Whether to hunt, sniff out a mate, or pick a fight with the local squirrel population.) That’s where a cat GPS tracker can be a life-saving emergency measure.

Strapped to your cat’s collar, your Tractive GPS monitors their location in real-time – updating it every 2-3 seconds in LIVE mode. So if your cat does wander off or bolts out of fear, you can locate them and bring them back to safety – with just a glance at your phone.

Tractive GPS CAT Mini Live Location on the app

Else, set up a “safe zone” from your Tractive mobile app around your camp perimeter. Now the minute your cat tries sneaking past it, you’ll get an escape alert straight to your phone – so you can intercept them before they have a chance to make a run for it.

All this in one device – built with love for cats and for your peace of mind, knowing that even in the wild, you’ll always be able to find them.

Ready to plan your camping adventure?

Camping with a cat can mean a world of fun or a world of pain, depending on how ready you both are. But if you’re confident your cat can respond to their name, is comfortable with a leash, harness, carrier, and car travel, and isn’t spooked by unfamiliar environments – go for it! It can be an incredible bonding experience and is a fantastic way to help your cat get some supervised outdoors time.

With a little patience and the right tools, you and your cat can enjoy a fun and safe camping experience together. Happy trails! 🏕️

cat wearing tractive gps cat tracker collar, app screenshot showcasing live tracking for cats

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And if you’ve liked this post, share it with a friend or a loved one – and let’s help build a safer, kinder world for our furry friends together.