Disaster Planning for Cats: Evacuation Kits, Plans and Safety

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Floods, wildfires, hurricanes and other disasters can force families to leave home quickly. In those moments, cats are easily forgotten, and they are hard to find if they hide. A little planning can save your cat's life, and reduce stress for everyone. This guide gives a practical checklist.

The golden rule

If it is not safe for you, it is not safe for your pet. Do not leave a cat behind, even if you think you will be back soon. Cats left alone may be injured, lost or trapped. Plan for your cat as a family member.

Make a plan

• Know your risks. What disasters are common in your area, such as hurricanes, wildfires, floods, tornadoes or earthquakes?
• Choose evacuation destinations. Identify friends, family, hotels and boarding facilities that accept cats. Many emergency shelters for people do not take pets, though some have pet areas.
• Set up a buddy system. Agree with a neighbor to help with your cat if you are away.
• Plan routes, and keep your car fueled.
• Keep your veterinarian's contact, and an out-of-area contact.

Identification

• Microchip your cat, and keep registration current. See cat microchipping and identification.
• Use a breakaway collar with a tag. See cat collars and breakaway safety.
• Keep recent photos, on your phone and in print, showing your cat and you together.
• Keep vaccination and medical records, especially rabies. Boarding facilities and shelters often require proof.

Build a go-bag

Keep these items together, and rotate food and medicines.

• A sturdy carrier for each cat. See how to choose a cat carrier.
• Food, for at least three to seven days, with a can opener and bowls.
• Bottled water.
• Medicines and instructions.
• A first aid kit. See cat first aid kit.
• Disposable litter trays, litter and a scoop, and waste bags.
• A leash and harness, if your cat is trained. See harness training a cat.
• Blankets, a toy, and a worn T-shirt for comfort.
• Copies of records and photos.
• Paper towels, cleaning supplies and gloves.
• A list of contacts.

Practice

Train your cat to accept the carrier, since a cat that hides in an emergency may be impossible to catch. Leave the carrier out as a bed, with treats. Practice putting your cat in it, and drive it around. See carrier training a cat. Practice getting the carrier from storage quickly.

During an evacuation

• Bring your cat with you, in a carrier.
• Keep the carrier covered, and in a secure place in the car.
• Do not let your cat out of the carrier outside.
• Never leave cats in a hot car. See keeping cats cool in hot weather.
• Keep cats inside the carrier at hotels, and follow rules.
• Provide food, water and litter as soon as you stop.

If you cannot find your cat

If you must leave and cannot find your cat, leave a note on the door with your contact details, and the cat's description. Leave plenty of water, but do not tie the cat. Alert local animal rescue. Return as soon as it is safe. See how to find a lost cat.

Sheltering in place

• Choose a safe, windowless room, with supplies.
• Keep your cat in a carrier or a small room.
• Secure windows and doors.
• Provide litter, food and water.
• Keep hazardous items away, such as chemicals.

Specific disasters

• Hurricanes and floods. Evacuate early, and avoid floodwater, which may contain chemicals.
• Wildfires. Leave at the first warning, since smoke is harmful. Keep carriers ready.
• Earthquakes. Cats may bolt, so keep them in a carrier, and check for hazards afterwards.
• Winter storms and power cuts. Keep warm. See winter safety for cats.
• Heat waves. See keeping cats cool in hot weather.

After the disaster

Check your cat for injuries, and see a vet. Watch for stress. See fireworks and thunderstorms and cats. Keep cats indoors until the area is safe, since landmarks and smells may be changed.

Updating your kit

Check your go-bag every six months. Replace food and medicines before they expire, update photos and records, and make sure the carrier still fits your cat, especially if you have a kitten that has grown. Keep a copy of the plan on your phone, and tell family and neighbors where the kit is kept. After each drill, note what went wrong and fix it.

When to see a vet

See a vet if your cat is injured, has breathing problems or shows signs of stress. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.