Tips for bringing your cat to the mall

When we talk about pet-friendly spaces, we usually hear more guidelines catered to dogs. But what about the cat parents? Are there differences between taking your dog to the mall vs. taking your cat to the mall? We’re going to break the comparison down in this month’s article! 

1. Cats should be vaccinated 

All pets (even indoor pets) should be up-to-date with their vaccinations when they’re brought to public spaces. This is crucial to keep mallgoing a safe experience for every pet and pet parent! 

2. Cats might prefer going around in a carrier 

While dogs tend to love strolling around, cats might feel safer and less stressed if they’re observing a crowded mall from inside a carrier. 

Pet Express offers a variety of carrier options from your cat. Try it out to see if your cat prefers a hard-sided carrier or even a stroller. 

3. Cats need to go to the bathroom too 

Some cats mark their territory when they’re stressed so make sure to pack cleaning supplies in case of accidents. A good option to check out is getting a travel litter box for longer trips. 

4. Cats are better with shorter trips 

If you bring your cat to the mall with you, some say that the ideal outing for them is 30 minutes to an hour. If this is your cat’s first time out, we highly recommend trying a short test run beforehand. 

5. Cats get anxious too 

Similar to how we feel when we’re overwhelmed, going outside can be stressful for your cat. Some tips to manage your cat’s stress: Try visiting the mall during times when it’s less crowded. When someone approaches you and asks to pet your cat, politely decline. 

If your cat shows signs of distress like hiding, trembling, or irritability, it’s best to head home. Don’t force your cat into situations that they’re not ready for. 

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