‘Tis a rare thing, indeed, to see a cat atop a kayak. And ’tis an even rarer sight to see such a feline partaking in the activity of kayaking itself! Yet, as unusual as it may be, there are those who do enjoy taking their cats out on the open water for some quality time together.
If you find yourself be wanting to take your kitty friend out for a paddle but aren’t quite sure how best to go about it – never fear! Here are some tips from fellow cat-kayakers that just might help make your experience purr-fect:
Choosing The Right Kayak
The first step is making sure you have purchased or rented the proper type and size of kayak to accommodate both you and your furry paddling partner safely. If possible try before you buy so that you can geta feel for what will work best for your needs– and those of your cat.
Once you have the kayak, take some time to get familiar with it before adding a cat into the mix. Get used to paddling and steering solo so that you are comfortable and confident come kitty-kayaking day.
Introducing Your Cat To The Kayak
Just as you wouldn’t want to be thrown straight into frigid water without acclimating first, neither should your feline friend! Help them become accustomed to their new mode of transportation by letting them explore it while tethered or on a leash at first. This will let them feel secure while getting a lay of the land – er, boat? Once they seem relaxed, try taking things up a notch by putting both of you in the kayak in shallower waters where they can touch bottom if need be.
Making Sure You And Your Feline Are Safe Out There
Safety is paramount when engaging in any kind of water activity – this is doubly true when you add a living, breathing (albeit furry) creature into the mix! Make sure that your cat is wearing a life jacket at all times while kayaking. Have them practice getting in and out of the boat beforehand so they know what to do should they need to make an emergency exit while on the water.
It’s also important that you keep an eye on weather conditions before heading out – after all, neither you nor Fluffy wants to be caught in a sudden storm! Pay attention to forecasts and always err on the side of caution if there is even a possibility for inclement weather.
Ensuring A Purr-Fect Experience For All
Kayaking with cats can be enjoyable for both parties involved as long as some basic ground rules are followed by everyone concerned. By being mindful of safety concerns and taking things slowly at first, you and your feline friend can make some great memories – and create a new tradition!
Outfitting Your Cat
As we mentioned earlier, one of the most important things you can do to ensure your cat’s safety while kayaking is to invest in a good life jacket. Make sure it fits snugly but isn’t too tight – you should be able to slip two fingers underneath the straps with ease.
There are many different types and styles of lifejackets on the market, so take some time to find one that suits both your needs and those of your feline friend. Some even come equipped with a hole for their tail!
Packing For The Trip
In addition to making sure everyone has proper outfitting, there are also certain items you will want to bring along on any kitty-kayaking excursion: Water and food bowls, Life jackets (just in case!), Sunscreen, Treats, A first aid kit, Spare clothes, Extra leashes and harnesses.
Picking the Perfect Spot
Now that you have your gear and supplies sorted, it’s time to pick a place to go kayaking with your cat! If this is your first time taking Fluffy out on the water, we recommend starting small by opting for a calm lake or pond.
As you become more experienced (and confident) in your kitty-kayaking abilities, feel free to venture out onto larger bodies of water like rivers and streams. Just be sure to always pay attention to weather conditions and heed any warnings about potentially dangerous areas.
Tips For A Successful Trip
Once you have chosen your destination and are all packed up and ready to go, there are a few things you can do to help make sure your trip goes off without a hitch:
- Allow your cat time to adjust to being in the kayak before starting out. Let them explore and get comfortable with their new surroundings.
- Start slow! Paddle slowly at first while getting used to having your furry friend along for the ride.
- If possible, try handling all of the gear yourself so that your cat doesn’t become overwhelmed or stressed by it all.
- Make frequent stops so everyone can take breaks, use the restroom, etc. as needed.
And last but not least – don’t forget to relax and have fun! Remember that part of what makes kayaking with cats such a unique experience is that it isn’t something most people get to do every day. Embrace the quirkiness and enjoy spending time with your feline friend in a new and exciting way!
Harness & Leash for Your Cat
While not technically a type of clothing, we feel it is important to mention the use of harnesses and leashes while kayaking with cats. We recommend starting off by attaching your cat’s leash to the boat so they have some freedom to move around but cannot jump out or overboard.
As you become more comfortable with having them in the kayak, you can experiment with different types of harnesses that allow for more movement. Just be sure that whatever you choose doesn’t restrict their ability to breathe or swim should they need to make an emergency exit into the water!
Backpacks for Your Cat
If you really want your cat to enjoy the full kayaking experience, consider investing in a specially-designed backpack carrier that attaches to the front or back of your life jacket. This will allow them to sit up high where they can take in all the sights and sounds around them – not to mention get some much-needed cuddle time with their favorite human!
Lifejackets for Your Cat
As we mentioned earlier, one of the most important things you can do to ensure your cat’s safety while kayaking is to invest in a good life jacket. Make sure it fits snugly but isn’t too tight – you should be able to slip two fingers underneath the straps with ease.
There are many different types and styles of lifejackets on the market, so take some time to find one that suits both your needs and those of your feline friend. Some even come equipped with a hole for their tail!
Doggles for Your Cat
If you really want to go all out, you can purchase a pair of specially-designed sunglasses for your cat (aka ‘cat Eyes’) that will help protect their eyes from the sun and wind while on the water. While not strictly necessary, they are definitely a fun accessory – and may just make your kitty feel like a celebrity!
Sunscreen for Your Cat
While cats do have some natural sunscreen in their fur, it isn’t always enough to protect them from the harmful effects of UV rays. If you are going to be kayaking in particularly sunny or hot weather, we recommend applying a pet-safe sunscreen to your cat’s nose and ears before heading out.
First Aid Kit for Your Cat
No matter how careful you are, accidents can happen – especially when dealing with an unpredictable animal like a cat! That’s why we always recommend bringing along a small first aid kit whenever embarking on any kind of outdoor adventure with your furry friend. Just toss it in the bottom of the kayak and forget about it until (and unless) you need it!
Conclusion
kayaking with cats can be a fun and rewarding experience – just follow these tips to ensure everyone has a good time. And don’t forget to bring along plenty of snacks, toys, and sunscreen for your furry friend.
