How To Keep Cats From Escaping Rv? Top Answer Update

The freeway is calling to you, but you don’t want to leave your cat behind while you’re out in your RV or van. Luckily, if your cat is an adventure cat, you don’t need to be separated.

Not all cats are good candidates for life in a home-on-wheels, but if you have a leash-trained kitten who is used to car rides and trusts a harness, your cat might just be the purrfect road trip companion.

With the right preparation, you can ensure your cat enjoys RV travel as much as you do.

Spend time in space

The first step in planning an RV adventure with your cat is introducing them to the vehicle. Park your RV as it is best not to leave the driveway until your cat is fully adjusted and comfortable in their new surroundings.

According to vet Dr. Alisha Tran, this process can take anywhere from a few days to weeks or longer, depending on the cat.

“It would be best to gradually introduce the cat to the RV as if it were a new home, since it will essentially be [a new home] at least temporarily,” she tells Adventure Cats. “That means you give [your cat] enough time to get comfortable with just being in the RV or van without her moving at all.”

Willow is all about #vanlife. (Photo: Rich East)

Make it yours

dr Tran suggests bringing some of your kitten’s belongings into the RV during the acclimatization period. Having their usual bedding, toys, and scratching post in their new environment cats will feel safe exploring their new surroundings. It also brings familiar smells into the vehicle.

“The goal is for the cat to feel like it’s in a comfort zone in the mobile home,” says Dr. Tran, who recommends using Feliway diffusers, sprays and wipes in your cat’s new mobile home.

Plan for medical emergencies

While your kitty is busy sniffing around your trailer, you can be busy making a plan for any medical needs that may arise during your road trip.

A well stocked cat first aid kit could come in handy and should definitely contain any medication your cat may need. A printed copy of your cat’s vet and vaccination records is also good to have.

MORE: Essentials for hiking with cats

“Do you have a list of vets or emergency vets that you can contact quickly or go directly to if something happens,” says Dr. blubber “Especially if this is going to be a trip where cell phone service is patchy [or] non-existent or veterinary care is not easily accessible.”

Look at the throw

There are as many places to put a litter box in an RV as there are RVs on the market.

In larger RVs, placing the litter box in the bathroom next to the toilet can be a good option, but in smaller RVs with wet-bath washrooms, this isn’t very practical unless you want to move the litter box every time you use one shower (although some motorhomes do just that).

Luckily, creative use of space in RVs — and even vans — opens up a ton of trash-locating opportunities. RV residents have placed litter boxes under beds, in empty cargo holds, and in closets equipped with cat doors.

Things can be harder in a van where space is even more limited, but junk and van life can mix. An Australian couple reports success using Velcro to secure the litter box under one of the rear seats. As for Vladimir – a kitten who has traveled all US national parks – his humans keep his litter box in the shower.

Buckle up

When your cat is comfortable in the space, it’s time to start your road trip, but a cat shouldn’t be left loose in an RV or van when its new home is on the move.

“While the vehicle is moving, I would recommend confining the cat in case of an accident,” notes Dr. Tran who suggests cats ride in a large box secured with a seat belt.

In addition to being injured in a collision, stray cats can also inadvertently cause one if they are near the driver.

MORE: How to prevent motion sickness in cats

When your RV is parked and you’re ready to explore, make sure your cat is wearing a harness, collar, and leash.

A long leash attached to the RV or van is perfect for your cat to explore the campsite while you supervise from the fire pit, but an ID collar and microchip are also required in case your cat searches without their harness slip outside.

Enjoy life on the road

Traveling with a cat means driving slowly and taking precautions, but whether you’re hauling an Airstream or living the #vanlife, if there’s room for a cat in your heart, there’s room in your vehicle too.

RV life with cats takes some planning, and one thing to figure out is where to put the litter box so it’s out of the way. With a little ingenuity, you can hide a litter box in almost any empty space in an RV. Here are a few ideas for litter box storage.

1. In a closet

A cat hole like this, which can be stained or painted, can allow a cat access to a litter box behind a closed door.

Mark Richardson / Alamy

The results of what is believed to be the first published national study of lost pets may surprise you. The actual percentage of cats and dogs reported lost was lower than expected, but the percentage of lost dogs that were safely returned to their homes was higher than expected. “There were several surprises in our study,” reports Dr. Emily Weiss, a board-certified animal behaviorist and vice president of animal shelter research and development at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. “I think we made an assumption about the stray pets in shelters – we assume these animals are lost pets whose owners are actively searching for them. While some of these dogs and cats are indeed lost, many of them are likely dogs and cats that are truly homeless.”

The ASPCA conducted a survey of 1,015 pet households, and the results of their five-year effort will be published in the June 2012 issue of Animals magazine.

Results of the first national lost pet survey

The most important findings:

Only 15 percent of zoo keepers have reported a lost dog or cat in the past five years.

The percentages of lost dogs versus lost cats were nearly identical: 14 percent for dogs and 15 percent for cats.

93 percent of dogs and 75 percent of cats reported lost were safely returned to their homes.

Only 6 percent of dog owners and 2 percent of cat owners found their lost pets at animal shelters.

15 percent of the dogs were found because they wore identification tags or microchips.

Include your cell phone on the pet’s ID tag

To improve the chances of reuniting with their owners, Dr. Knows that pets should be microchipped and wear identification collars with easy-to-read contact information.

“We propose that the label should include the cell phone number of the pet’s parent, the cell phone number of an emergency contact, the landline number of the pet parent’s home and, if the person is OK with this, the address of their home.” She says.

dr Weiss is urging owners to start screening animal shelters in their area on the first day their pet goes missing. She also recommends bringing a clear photo of the pet to help officers identify the cat or dog and potentially speed up a reunion.

Information from this study is intended to help ASPCA officials develop programs that increase the likelihood that owners will find their lost pets.

Important points:

Cat shock collars can be useful for keeping your cat out of areas they shouldn’t go, for exercise or discouraging aggressive behavior, stopping excessive meowing, and keeping your cat within the confines of their own yard.

Shock collars don’t just use shocks to guide a cat’s behavior. You can also use vibration or sound to signal cats to change their behavior. There are many types on the market including remote controlled and waterproof.

While some cats respond well to obedience collars and learn from their past mistakes, other cats may respond with stress, fear, or confusion when shocked. These collars are not a favorite among vets.

If your cat gets into trouble or enters areas of the house that you don’t want them to go, a cat shock collar may be the solution you’re looking for. Cat shock collars can also be very useful when training a cat, preventing it from acting aggressively toward other animals, stopping excessive meowing, or keeping house cats within the confines of a yard with an invisible fence.

Despite the name, cat shock collars don’t just use shocks to help cats learn that certain behaviors are undesirable. Many also use vibration or sound to signal cats to change their behavior. You will find that there are a variety of different types of cat shock collars on the market, including remote controlled and waterproof models. We’ve put together the reviews below to help you find the right shock collar that will help train your cat, keep them indoors or within an invisible fence barrier, stop them from meowing 24/7, and preventing them from going through forbidden doors, and more.

features

Cat shock collar kits usually consist of two parts. One is the collar, which uses a microchip to generate a beep, vibration, or electric shock. The other part of a set would be a remote control or transmitter that sends an automatic or manual signal. The preset reaction in the collar is triggered when the collar worn by the cat crosses a limit or the owner triggers it manually. Most kits allow you to program the static shock level to a very low setting, just enough to get the pet’s attention.

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Barrier areas can be set in transmitters for longer ranges, e.g. B. to keep your cat within an imaginary fence on your property, to prevent a cat from using dog doors, to even stop them from entering certain rooms in the house or staying away from counters. The collars can be used not only to discourage bad behavior but also to reward good behavior.

The different types of cat shock collars: pros and cons compared

There are two main types of cat shock collars: obedience collars and containment collars. We’ll explore the pros and cons of each option below.

obedience collars

professionals! Disadvantages! Owners can issue a shock or warning when their cat is exhibiting an undesirable behavior to stop the behavior. Some vets and trainers don’t like shock collars. Some cats respond well to the collars and quickly learn what behaviors are unacceptable. Some cats can become stressed, anxious, or confused when shocked. Many models are waterproof. You must remember to keep the collar charged.

containment collars

professionals! Disadvantages! Can help cats learn to stay inside a yard with an invisible fence or other barriers. Some vets and trainers don’t like invisible fences and shock collars. Indoor options are available to teach cats to stay away from doors or other indoor barriers. Some cats can become stressed, anxious, or confused when shocked. The collar warns cats when they are approaching the boundary by beeping or making some other sound. You must remember to keep the collar charged. The shock will be sent automatically when the cat crosses boundaries. Owners can adjust the intensity of the shock to suit the cat’s needs.

Our criteria and experience: why we chose the best

We researched several models of shock collars, compared them and consulted reviews before deciding on our recommendations. We have included the following products for their superior quality and reliability. Read on to learn about some of the features we liked, as well as some to consider when deciding which one best suits your cat’s needs:

PetSafe Pawz Away Indoor Pet Barrier: This shock collar is superior in many ways. For one, it’s best for teaching your cat to avoid certain objects around your home or on surfaces. There is a warning first so your cat can avoid the shock once they start to understand the process. You can also move the transmitter to teach the cat to avoid a new location with ease. This collar also has superior battery life. On the other hand, some owners felt that the collar is a bit big and may not fit well for many cats.

PetSafe Stay & Play Wireless Fence: This set is great if you have multiple cats as you can easily add more than one collar to the programming. The collar charges in 2 or 3 hours and holds its charge for up to 3 weeks. It also offers 5 levels of correction for the quick learner to the more stubborn cat. On the negative side, the transponder makes the collar quite heavy and it seems that many cats find it uncomfortable to wear.

SENTRY PET CARE Cat Calming Collar: We like the calming pheromones this collar releases and find them very effective at curbing excessive meowing. However, we wish the collar had a breakaway design. Some other reviewers noted that their cats had their jaws caught under the collar, causing injury or even death. We recommend doing what some others have recommended and cutting the collar apart to connect to a breakaway cat collar that is safer for your cat to wear.

The top picks for the best shock collar for cats: ranked

#1 Best Overall: PetSafe Pawz Away Indoor Pet Barrier

Sale PetSafe Pawz Away Indoor Pet Barrier with Adjustable Reach – Dog and Cat House Guard – Static Correction – Wireless Pet Gate Keeps Areas Restricted – Battery Operated – For Pets 5 lbs. and above SET INDOOR BOUNDARIES: Keep your cat off the kitchen counter and dog off the shoe rack by establishing restricted areas with the Pawz Away Wireless Indoor Pet Barrier Transmitter

WHAT’S IN THE BOX: You will receive 1 Pawz Away Indoor Pet Barrier and a Receiver Collar for your cat or dog

SAFELY CORRECTS YOUR PET: When your pet enters the boundary area with the receiver collar, they will hear a series of beeps and then receive a safe but surprising static correction

ADJUSTABLE BARRIER RANGE: Protect specific areas in your home by setting the boundary up to a 6ft radius or 12ft diameter

PROTECT MULTIPLE AREAS OF YOUR HOME: If you want to keep your pet away from more than one area of ​​your home, simply purchase additional Pawz Away barriers and place them where needed

If you need to create barriers in your home to keep your cat away from certain rooms or doors, off your counter or off furniture, the PetSafe Pawz Away Indoor Pet Barrier may be the right choice for you. Each purchase includes a receiver collar and house barrier for cats or dogs. Additional barriers can be purchased to keep cats out of more than one room in a house.

Once the device is set up, your cat will hear multiple beeps as it approaches the receiver. A static correction, which is safe but enough to startle the cat, is sent after the beeps to help it learn to stay away from the restricted area.

You can adjust the reach of the barrier to suit your needs and the layout of the room. The range can be adjusted to a diameter of up to 12 feet from the receiver.

The shock collar provided with this pack is designed for use with cats that weigh at least 5 pounds and have a neck circumference between 6 and 28 inches. This collar is also compatible with other Pawz Away Barriers including the Pawz Away Outdoor Pet Barrier.

Click here to view PetSafe Pawz Away Indoor Pet Barrier on amazon.com.

#2 Best for Outdoors: PetSafe Stay & Play Wireless Fence

Clearance Sale PetSafe Stay & Play Wireless Pet Fence with Replaceable Battery Collar, Covers up to 3/4 Acre, For Dogs and Cats Over 5lb, Waterproof Collar, Sound and Static, From INVISIBLE FENCE Brand Parent Company, 3/4 Acre with Circular Coverage : Deploys in as little as 1-2 hours and creates a circular boundary covering up to 3/4 acre (22-105 feet in all directions) from indoor transmitter placement

NO DIGING OR WIRE TO BURY: Set up in just a few hours; A wireless border allows you to create a secure barrier around your yard to protect your pets without the time or hassle of burying wires

STATIC FREE RE-ENTRY: Unlike traditional earth fences, this wireless fence allows your pet to return home without being corrected if your pet crosses the boundary

PORTABLE: This portable system is great for camping, vacation homes, or anywhere you travel with access to an outlet

WATERPROOF COLLAR: The waterproof collar comfortably fits small, medium and large pets over 5 pounds and adjusts neck sizes from 6-28 inches; Compatible with all PetSafe Wireless Fence transmitters

If you’re looking to keep an outdoor cat safe in your yard, try this invisible fence from PetSafe. You can use the provided materials to set up a circular border that will cover up to 3/4 acre.

Unlike other invisible fences, you don’t need to bury a wire to create the wireless barrier for this system. Just set the stakes in the ground to set it all up in just an hour or two.

There are five different levels of static correction to choose from based on your cat’s size and personality. You can also use the sound-only mode, which simply emits tones and no shocks to alert your cat that it’s approaching the boundary line.

A waterproof receiver collar for cats weighing at least 5 pounds is included in the kit. It can be adjusted to fit neck sizes between 6″ and 28″. The collar is battery operated and the battery should last 1 to 2 months before needing to be replaced.

Click here to see PetSafe Stay & Play Wireless Fence on amazon.com.

#3 Best for Meowing: SENTRY PET CARE Cat Calming Collar

Sentry Cat Behavior and Calming Collar, 1ct Scientifically proven: The Sentry Cat Calming Collar reduces excessive meowing, marking and scratching.

Less Stressful Life: The Sentry Calming Cat Collar reduces excessive meowing in cats and kittens.

Eliminate Unwanted Behavior: The Sentry Cat Calming Collar helps stop inappropriate marking and unwanted scratching.

SAFE AND EFFECTIVE: The calming cat collar is safe and effective when used as directed, with no long-term side effects.

30-DAY RELEASE: The Sentry tranquilizer collar for cats and kittens releases pheromones for up to 30 days.

If your cat meows, scratches, or marks excessively, it may be caused by stress. Instead of trying a shock collar, try SENTRY PET CARE’s tranquilizer collar. Each collar lasts up to 30 days and gradually releases pheromones designed to calm cats and reduce or eliminate unwanted behavior.

This collar is safe to use on cats as long as it is used as directed. It has no long-term side effects or harm to cats. You can purchase the collar in 1 or 3 packs.

Click here to view the SENTRY PET CARE Cat Calming Collar on amazon.com.

Summary of the best shock collars for cats

Related Images

The Sentry Calming Collar helps reduce excessive meowing, scratching and marking behaviors in your indoor cat.

Next…

Here are our top picks for the best cat harnesses – Cats can benefit from outdoor exercise, but not all cat owners are comfortable letting them roam free. Check out some harnesses that allow your cat some supervised roaming.

– Cats can benefit from outdoor exercise, but not all cat owners are comfortable letting them roam free. Check out some harnesses that allow your cat some supervised roaming. Our Top Picks for the Best Cat Muzzles: Tested for You – Calm your cat down in stressful situations with these recommendations for the best cat muzzles.

– Soothe your cat in stressful situations with these recommendations for the best cat muzzles. Our Top Picks for the 4 Best Cat Water Fountains – Cat water fountains can provide your cat with a fresh, clean stream of water 24/7. Check out our top 4 recommendations.

Last update on 07/23/2022 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Why do cats run away? They often do: whether they’re just missing for hours or days, most cat parents can attest to this type of behavior in their cats. Although cats have a very good sense of direction, that doesn’t mean your cat will necessarily always return home. If you understand the reason why your cat is running away, you can find a good solution to protect your cat’s safety and your peace of mind. So let’s talk about the top 10 answers to the question why do cats run away and what you can do to make sure your cat doesn’t run away next time.

Know where your cat is going See where she is in real time, no matter how far she walks. Get notifications when they stray too far home. Find out where they’ve been and discover their favorite spots. Let others follow with you. Discover GPS trackers for cats

See what Consumer Reports says about Tractive

10 Reasons Why Cats Run Away

1. Reproductive instinct

The first reason cats run away is because of their reproductive instincts – which are strong in both female cats on heat and intact male cats.

As long as you have an intact male cat, he will definitely spend more time outdoors looking for perfect mating partners. Your very keen senses will spot potential mating partners in the neighborhood and there isn’t a fence high enough to get in your cat’s way. If they can’t find a suitable mate nearby, an unneutered cat may travel further from home to do the deed.

The mating instinct in cats can leave your feline pal missing for days or even put them in dangerous situations if they get lost, stuck or injured far from home. To be on the safe side, nowadays you can easily locate your cat with a GPS cat tracker and track every step.

Discover Tractive GPS

Getting your cats fixed will reduce their mating drive, so you don’t have to worry about them roaming the neighborhood looking for 😺. Neutering has the added benefit of making cats less likely to exhibit aggressive behavior toward other cats. In some places spaying your cat is a legal requirement, so check your country’s regulations to make sure your cat is safe.

2. Hunting instinct or prey drive in cats

Another major reason why your cat is likely to run away from home is the natural and ingrained hunting behavior of cats.

Of course, the domesticated felines we share homes with today share a genetic lineage with feral big cats, which are skilled hunters. It’s no secret that cats, large and small, have depended on hunting to feed themselves and their young for most of history. And that powerful biological instinct didn’t go away until we started feeding our cats Fancy Feast.

Whether or not your cat already has enough to eat, they will most likely enjoy a good hunt – it’s an integral part of their feline nature. So don’t be surprised if your outdoor cat moves away from home in search of irresistible prey.

3. Territory

In general, a cat’s territory is where they spend their time – in your house, backyard, maybe further away. If your cat is comfortable there, she will likely try to expand her territory by exploring the wider area. They might also want to claim your neighbor’s yard or that sunny spot with all the birds on the street. Cats are territorial, so they may try to defend their territory from other cats in the area.

So, reason #3 cats run away is they claim their kingdom and show other cats who’s boss. The downside is that the larger the cat’s territory, the more likely it is to come into contact with other cats, which can put them at risk of fighting and getting hurt in a cat fight. They are also more likely to be exposed to dangerous diseases such as feline AIDS.

Also, neighbor cats may try to claim their territory in your yard, which can easily lead to your own kitty trying to find another safer yard. If your cat feels threatened by another cat in its own territory, it may stop being around as often.

If you’ve just moved and your cat strays, she’s probably looking for her old territory – so it’s worth finding out the best way to move your cat safely.

4. Cheating on you

Another likely explanation for why you can’t find your cat is that she’s cheating on you with the neighbor down the street. Other friendly people may have taken a liking to your kitten and started feeding it or even letting it into their home on a regular basis. Maybe they have tastier treats or more interesting toys than you have at home. It’s not uncommon for a cat to have a “spare home,” especially if they are being spoiled.

Find out where your cat goes with a GPS cat tracker and if you find your cat has a second home, politely ask your neighbors not to feed your kitten (too much). Put a safety collar with an identification tag on your cat; That way, it’s clear they’re part of your family and aren’t being mysteriously ‘adopted’.

5. Pregnant cat giving birth

Speaking of cats in heat, if your cat successfully fulfills its mating instinct, you may have a pregnant cat on your hands. And it’s typical for pregnant cats to hide. Pregnant cats often seek a secluded, private, and safe place to give birth to their kittens. So if you have a stressful household, for example with dogs or children running around, don’t be surprised if your pregnant cat is nowhere to be found.

Look for my cat

6. Stress

Stress is another common reason cats run away. Cats are creatures of habit – they don’t like changes in the household or in the daily routine. rearranging furniture, welcoming a new pet or family member, house renovations, or even just making loud noises; these things and more can cause stress and anxiety in your kitten, leading them to seek refuge elsewhere.

To relieve your cat’s stress in the face of big changes, check out these related articles:

7. Neglect or abandonment

Neglect and abandonment are two other possible reasons your cat might not come home. If you always leave your cat home alone or don’t provide her with enough food, water or other things she needs to survive and have a good life, she may be looking for shelter, love and care elsewhere. If your home has been neglected or you haven’t given your cat the care it needs, it may run away from home.

Read our guide to caring for a new kitten or cat to ensure you’re caring for your feline furbaby properly. If you have cats outside, make sure they have a warm place to sleep in winter. Learn more about caring for outdoor cats in winter.

8. Fear

Another common reason for a missing cat is a scared cat. When your cat is startled by something, their natural fear response can send them into fight, flight, or freeze mode. Flight: your cat will run for the hills. Freezing: Your cat will stand still and probably hide somewhere nearby, but she may be too scared to come out of hiding or make a sound. If you suspect your cat has been afraid to flee or hide, a GPS cat tracker is one of the surest ways to locate them and bring them home immediately.

9. Illness

Another natural cause of cat straying is illness. When cats are sick, they prefer to go to a secluded, hidden, and quiet place to recover undisturbed. And they may decide that the most peaceful place for them isn’t on your property.

Hope your cat gets well soon and is back home in no time. However, this is not always the case. Sick or injured cats are more vulnerable when left outdoors. For example, you could catch cat flu or become an easy target for a local predator. When your cat is about to die, it may stray off in search of solitude and not be able to return home.

10. Curiosity

After all, cats often run away just because they are curious creatures who love to explore and follow their curiosities. Maybe your cat likes to chase butterflies or insects in the summer; maybe they were distracted by a friendly squirrel or neighbor’s kid. Especially when something enticing is around, your cat is likely to run away from home for hours to days. Even just nice weather is enough to get them leaving your lap in search of some excitement.

So if you have an inquisitive, exploring adventure cat, you know that’s 100% normal. But of course there are certain safety measures we can take to protect our outdoor feline friends. This is especially important as your cat may be exposed to certain dangers once it’s out of your sight.

Good to know: While trying to discover new places, many cats get stuck in various narrow places such as fences, pots, etc., whether distracted or just curious.

Then a GPS tracker for cats will come in very handy! This way you always know where Kitty is and you can help her immediately if you notice that she is in trouble. Just tap the LIVE button on the app and see where your cat is at all times. Worried that a tracking collar will cause trouble for your curious cat? No fear! With the tear-off mechanism of the Tractive GPS Cat Tracker, the collar immediately “breaks apart” under pressure and can then be easily attached to your cat again.

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Possible reasons why cats go missing and don’t come back

When cats run away, it’s often only for a few minutes, hours, or days at a time. Most likely they will return. According to studies, cats typically travel no further than a mile from their homes. If cats are missing for 2-3 days or less, they were probably just exploring their territory, looking for a mate, or chasing a prey.

However, sometimes a cat gets lost and doesn’t return – it runs away and disappears forever. With that in mind, it’s important to be aware of a few other possible reasons why your missing cat might not be coming back.

Natural predators

Cats can encounter predators and become prey of these larger animals themselves, so keep your cat indoors if you have dangerous natural cat predators in your area. These can include cougars, mountain lions, wolves, coyotes, snakes, eagles, hawks and owls, depending on where you live. 🦅

illness, injury or death

As mentioned above, outdoor cats are more prone to illness and injury than indoor cats. This could be from disease-carrying ticks, other cats, poisonous plants or fungi, predators, or other natural or man-made hazards. That’s why it’s always good to know where your cat is.

animal control

Another reason your cat may go missing and not come back is if animal control picks it up. Maybe someone mistook her for a stray and called to pick her up off the street. So if you have a lost cat, be sure to call your local animal welfare service to see if someone has picked up your cat. Likewise, you can call veterinary services and animal shelters to see if your cat somehow ended up there.

Theft

Unfortunately, dognapping is on the rise and our feline friends can also be affected by pet theft. Professional cat thieves would most likely target expensive cat breeds so they can sell the cat and make a profit. As such, you should keep an extra close eye on your cat if it falls into one of these breeds.

Cat theft can also happen when someone sees your cat walking around the neighborhood and decides to make your furbaby their new pet. A microchip can help prove you’re the legal parent should that happen, and can help you identify who abducted your cat. But it can be difficult to find your stolen cat if you don’t have a way to track it in real time – unfortunately, microchips don’t help with that, but a GPS cat tracker can.

Willful Loss

Unfortunately, another reason pets sometimes go missing is intentional loss. People who don’t wish our furry friends well may choose to drop the cat somewhere or even harm a cat. If your cat goes missing, it might be a good idea to ask yourself if anyone you know may have done something to get rid of the cat on purpose. We hope this is not the case!

Picked up by a moving vehicle

Another common reason stray cats go missing for long periods of time is when they are accidentally picked up by a moving vehicle. Maybe your cat crawled under the hood of a car or in the delivery truck. This happened to our friend Kiwi the cat, who had an adventure in the back of a van before finally being reunited with her family. Thanks to Tractive GPS, Kiwi’s parents were able to see where he was and get him home safely. Stacy shared the story with us in her Trustpilot review:

Our cat, Kiwi, jumped onto the back of a van (little to the driver’s knowledge). After seeing on my phone that she had left her “virtual fence,” I noticed that she was moving quickly and along streets. She ended up driving down the freeway 15 miles away. Using the Tractive app, I found her in a mall parking lot behind the fish cart. Who knows where Kiwi would be now without Tractive… Read the full story of Kiwi, the cat rescued by Tractive GPS

How missing cats find their way back home

It’s not all bad news when it comes to stray cats. It turns out our feline friends are experts at finding their way back home. Here are some factors that can help your cat return home on its own:

Homecoming Instinct: A cat’s homecoming behavior is its ability to navigate through unfamiliar territory back to a familiar place. Although not fully understood, it could have something to do with cats’ acute sensitivity to the Earth’s magnetic field, which helps them find their way home 1 . However, keep in mind that not all cats are equally good at finding their way around. Outdoor cats are more likely to have this ability than indoor cats.

A cat’s homing behavior is its ability to navigate through unfamiliar territory back to a familiar location. While not fully understood, it could have something to do with cats’ distinct sensitivity to the Earth’s geomagnetic field, which helps them find their way home. However, keep in mind that not all cats are equally good at finding their way around. Outdoor cats are more likely to have this ability than indoor cats. Cat’s Sense of Direction: What helps strengthen their instinct to visit is cats’ exceptional sense of direction. With their advanced senses of smell, hearing, sight and magnetic fields, cats have been known to find their way home from miles away. The presence of iron in cats’ ears and skin can act as a natural compass.

What helps strengthen their homecoming instinct is cats’ exceptional sense of direction. With their advanced senses of smell, hearing, sight and magnetic fields, cats have been known to find their way home from miles away. The presence of iron in cats’ ears and skin can act as a natural compass. Psi-Trailing: In some notable cases, cats have been able to find their way back to a loved one, through unfamiliar territory to a destination previously unknown to the cat. This is called psi-trailing and there aren’t many scientific explanations for it – but some cat parenting stories suggest that cats may have a way of tracking their parents and finding them, regardless of where they go.

These are three good reasons to keep hope that you will see your kitten again even if they are missing. However, the further your cat roams and the longer it’s been missing, the less likely it is to be found. 😾

How to stop a cat from running away

Fortunately, there are many things a cat parent can do to prevent a cat from running away from home. Even if you have the most adventurous outdoor cat, there are ways to keep your cat safe and close. Here are some of the top tips for stopping a cat from running away:

Get them fixed: Spay or neuter your cat to prevent her from running away. Many cat parents can worry less about their cat’s disappearance once they have their cat neutered.

spay or neuter your cat to keep it from running away. Many cat parents can worry less about their cat’s disappearance once they have their cat neutered. Keep your cat indoors whenever possible, especially during the cold months or times of high prey activity like dawn and dusk.

whenever possible, especially during the cold months or times of high prey activity, such as dawn and dusk. Cat-friendly move: Make your move cat-friendly.

Make your move cat-friendly. Create a cat run, also known as an outdoor cat run, so your cat can enjoy the great outdoors without the risk of getting lost.

aka outdoor cat enclosures so your cat can enjoy the great outdoors without getting lost. Microchip your cat and make sure it has ID tags so others know your cat already has a family.

, so others know your cat already has a family. Entertain and stimulate your cat with healthy activities and games at home.

at home with healthy activities & play. Limit your cat’s movement space by setting up a Tractive GPS Virtual Fence: you will be notified when your cat crosses the boundary and you can bring them inside.

: You will be notified when your cat crosses the border and you can bring it inside. Minimize possible escape routes by securing your house, apartment or garden to make it cat-proof.

by securing your house, apartment or garden to make it cat-proof. Track everywhere your cat goes with a GPS cat tracker.

with a GPS cat tracker. Teach your kitten to come home with positive reinforcement.

with positive reinforcement. During stressful changes at home, look after your cat – and give them the extra care they need.

at home – and give them the extra care they need. Provide them with everything they need to thrive in the home (food, water, toys, occupation, love, and healthy stimulation).

(Food, water, toys, activity, love and healthy stimulation). Use a harness and leash when walking your cat outside.

How to find a lost cat

It’s no fun when our precious cat leaves our side and gets lost – we can feel helpless, scared and worried about what might happen to our poor missing cat. Will they return home alone? How long are cats missing?

Instead of running around and waiting, it’s important to take action as soon as possible to bring your lost cat back home. Get all of our tips for finding a lost cat, including a free lost pet poster download, here: How to Find a Lost Cat – and Stop Them From Going Missing Again

Conclusion why cats run away

In this article, we’ve covered the top 10 reasons why cats run away. They are:

reproduction

hunt

explore territory

visit neighbors

pregnancy

Emphasize

neglect

fear

Illness

curiosity

In addition, cats may go missing and never come back due to predators, illness and injury, pet control, theft, intentional loss or other accidents.

Luckily, cats have several ways to find their way home if everything is fine and they don’t get stuck, pinched, or injured. But to maximize your chances of finding a lost cat, you need to start searching right away.

You can prevent a cat from running away by getting it fixed, keeping your cat indoors, using a catio, attaching a GPS cat tracker to your cat’s collar, and providing a loving, caring, and safe home atmosphere in which they thrive be able .

For more information on why cats run away and whether they return home, see the video below:

What is your cat’s favorite reason to run away?

Share this article with a friend to raise awareness about stray cats:

What you need to know about RVs and catalytic converters

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If you own a car, you probably already know that a catalytic converter plays an important role. It converts harmful compounds in your car exhaust and renders them harmless. But do RVs have them, just like regular vehicles? We cover all the basics of RV and catalytic converters, including theft and prevention.

Do RVs have catalytic converters?

RVs with one engine, such as Class A, B, and C RVs, have catalytic converters. Catalysts reduce emissions from internal combustion engines in a vehicle so only driveable RVs have one.

Caravans are not roadworthy and therefore do not have a catalytic converter. However, the towing vehicle must have one.

In the USA, catalytic converters are mandatory for all motor vehicles.

Catalytic converter theft is a big problem. Equipment contains precious metals that are a target for thieves. If your RV doesn’t have a catalytic converter, it has likely been removed and needs to be replaced.

Don’t worry, I’ll cover all of that in this article!

As I always say, you don’t need to remember everything about your RV. But it’s good to know the basics in case of an emergency.

For more resources about your RV, visit the resources page or start with these:

What is a catalyst?

Catalyst under a new vehicle from deepblue4you via Canva.com

The catalytic converter was developed in 1950 by a French mechanical engineer named Eugène Houdry. It was used to clean car exhaust fumes.

Catalytic converters help combustion engines to emit fewer pollutants. Basically, the fuel burns completely and there is not enough oxygen to fully oxidize the carbon fuel in these engines. The catalytic converter reduces the engine exhaust from carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, nitrogen dioxide and hydrocarbons to carbon dioxide and water. This creates less hazardous by-products.

Catalytic converters became widespread around 1975 when governments began to minimize air pollution caused by automobiles. However, many cars ran on leaded gasoline, and a catalytic converter can become clogged with lead (Pb) because it can coat a surface that normally interacts with exhaust gases.

Today, however, lead is no longer added to normal petrol or diesel.

Modern catalytic converters are highly efficient and reduce engine emissions of hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides by 90%.

Where is the catalytic converter on a mobile home?

BanksPhotos via Canva.com

The catalytic converter is located under the motorhome and is connected to the exhaust system. It is clearly visible between the engine and the muffler.

The catalyst reduces the toxic gases with a chemical reaction and a catalyst.

The hazardous chemicals in an engine’s exhaust are converted into harmless gases such as vapor by a catalytic converter. It uses a chamber called a catalyst to create the reaction.

A ceramic honeycomb is encased in a metal shell using a mixture of platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd) and rhodium (Rh) to cover this honeycomb.

Toxic gases are blown over the catalytic converter, triggering a chemical reaction that breaks down the pollutants. The less harmful gases now exit through the second exit pipe, which is connected to a car’s exhaust pipe.

The entire system is designed to withstand oxidation, corrosion and all the toxins emitted by a car engine.

What types of RVs use catalytic converters?

A Class motorhome on a mountain road ©benkrut via Canva.com

The type of rig with a catalyst is a rig with a motor, as you might have imagined. If you have a vehicle that needs to be towed like a fifth wheel, then your vehicle is missing a catalytic converter; why? Because your vehicle has no engine.

Depending on the size and capability of your facility, you may have more than one catalyst. Catalysts are standard equipment on Class A, B, and C rings that connect to a car’s exhaust pipe, and you’ll find them on every other van or truck on the road.

Catalysts are required to run any vehicle with an engine as it is dangerous to drive a vehicle without them. Many RVs use diesel fuel; Therefore, depending on the installation, you may have a more complex diesel catalytic converter.

What are the problems with catalytic converters?

US EPA standards require catalytic converters to last 8 years or 80,000 miles. Although catalytic converters should last the life of the engine, 10 years or 100,000 miles, failure can occur sooner. Problems can arise and it can function poorly or be permanently damaged.

A catalytic converter generally fails because another part or system in the engine is not working properly. The most common problems are caused by overheating, dirty substrate or structural damage.

Excessive amounts of unburned gas produced by a misfiring spark plug or a defective exhaust valve can cause catalytic converters to overheat. In addition, a defective lambda sensor can lead to overheating.

Excessive loading on the motor also leads to overheating. (Don’t be a lead foot with your poor RV).

A defective cylinder head gasket can allow engine coolant to enter the combustion system. Motor oil is another pollutant that can clog a catalytic converter, preventing exhaust gases from flowing through it.

Aside from that, catalytic converters are located underneath your vehicles, thus making them vulnerable to possible damage from external factors such as dirt on the road.

It is worth noting that leaded gas damages catalytic converters, but is not used in the United States or Canada.

How do you service a catalytic converter?

Because replacing a catalytic converter is expensive, you want to keep it in good working order. So how can you keep it in top condition?

The first step is to clean your catalytic converter regularly with a catalytic converter cleaner. This helps remove carbon deposits or buildup.

It is even more important that your vehicle is regularly maintained, e.g. B. Oil changes, air filter changes and inspections. If you notice anything that needs your attention, take care of it as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

If you are worried about your catalytic converter, look out for the following signs:

Starting is difficult and the noise is louder than usual

Unusual smell, similar to rotten eggs

Gas mileage, acceleration and performance are poor.

The next tip is: Don’t leave your hibernation for a long time. Feel free to go on a few longer trips. Ride for at least half an hour every few weeks to achieve optimal operating temperature.

If you leave your RV out too long, your catalytic converter may never clean itself properly, leading to excessive deposits and possible clogging.

You should therefore regularly take your motorhome with you on longer journeys so that your converter can burn off any deposits.

Finally, use good quality fuel with detergents and additives to clean your engine. Inferior fuel does not work well and leaves more deposits in your engine and exhaust system. Using good quality gasoline can keep your catalytic converters clean and extend the life of your vehicle.

There are several things you can do if you haven’t maintained your catalytic converter normally and are now having a problem with it. Stronger cleaning agents are available to restore your converter to its original condition. If this choice doesn’t work, you may need to consider another alternative.

You may need to replace your catalytic converter if it is beyond repair.

Can you drive an RV without a catalytic converter?

While it is possible to drive an RV without a catalytic converter, it is not legal in the US. Your motorhome will drive restlessly and may smell bad. If the catalytic converter is in place and completely clogged, your engine can run, but you will damage it.

Symptoms of a bad catalytic converter include:

Check engine light comes on

reduced engine power

Strange or rotten egg odor

Unusual noises or rattling in the engine

stalling or loss of acceleration

the engine does not fire

Your motorhome runs without a catalytic converter, but you can still drive it safely to the workshop. However, continuing to drive without it is against the law in most places. Also, you lose power in your engine. So this is not recommended.

Can catalytic converters be stolen from mobile homes?

Similar to any car or truck, catalytic converters can be easily stolen from any RV. Because RVs are left unattended for long periods of time, they are easy targets for catalytic converter theft.

When sold to metal recyclers, catalytic converters have significant profit potential due to the hundreds of dollars worth of valuable metals such as platinum, palladium and rhodium in the coating of the internal ceramic structure.

Because mobile homes and motorhomes with catalytic converters are often left parked or unattended for long periods of time, they are a popular target for theft. Catalysts can be taken from a brand new RV on the property or even in your driveway!

It takes less than 10 minutes to steal it, and a lot less time if you’re a pro. Because so many have been stolen, new regulations have been and continue to be put in place to deter these thieves!

Note: your catalytic converter theft is likely covered if you have comprehensive RV auto insurance.

But don’t worry because there are ways to stop these thieves from getting your catalytic converter out of your RV.

How to avoid RV catalytic converter theft

The best way to protect a catalytic converter from being stolen is to park in a well-lit area with 24-hour surveillance or security cameras. Welding it to the frame would make it difficult to remove.

Also, make sure you have adequate insurance coverage to replace a catalytic converter in the event of theft.

Depending on your financial circumstances and your desire to avoid theft, you can take out various types of insurance.

Park in a safe, well-lit area

RV catalytic converters have been taken in a variety of places, including driveways and parks. If possible, park in a well-lit area. If parking in a public lot, park near the building entrance or the nearest access road.

If you don’t need your car, park it in your closed garage.

The aim is to make it difficult for thieves to make a quick profit. When your car is parked in a secure garage, the possibility of theft approaching your RV is reduced.

Use a security camera to monitor your RV

Security cameras can be easily installed in your driveway or garage when you park your RV at home. Otherwise, choose a camp with surveillance cameras.

Weld on the catalytic converter

The converter can be equipped with security measures that make it difficult to steal. It is also more difficult to remove a converter that is welded to the car frame. Some people have been known to install a skid plate over the exhaust system.

Add a security system where vibration triggers it.

The loud alarm should deter a thief as these alarms are sensitive. You can leave the alarm on while your RV is in storage.

I’m not advocating keeping them armed in your RV, but having one isn’t a bad idea, especially considering the reasonable price. It’s affordable, loud, and easy to set up. Just don’t forget to remove it before hitting the road. why? Because again it is sensitive!

Engrave your vehicle identification number (VIN) or contact information.

It is also highly recommended to engrave your vehicle identification number (VIN) or contact information outside of the catalytic converter.

It could alert a scrap dealer that it has been stolen and make it easier to track down the owner. The idea of ​​just using a sticker is unlikely to work as a large part of the catalytic converter’s job is to generate a lot of heat and potentially melt the sticker.

How much does it cost to replace a catalytic converter?

Replacing a catalytic converter on an RV costs anywhere from $1,000 to $2,700, including parts and labor. The parts make up most of the cost, with the labor estimated at $150-$200.

Final Thoughts on Catalysts

Catalytic converters are not found in every motorhome, only in motorhomes. Remember they only deal with engine exhaust, but understanding that you have one and what that means for the life of your RV is crucial.

If you own an RV or other motorized equipment, from maintenance to theft, take care of your catalytic converters because they are more important than you think!

To wrap things up, I’d like to invite you to take a look at my Etsy shop in case you need planners and journals to write down your RV camping experiences and sights.

For more RV resources, here are some of my posts you can check out:

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