Because You’re Not Leaving Without the Cat—and We Love That About You
Hurricane season rolls in every year like clockwork—June through November—and while it might not feel urgent when the skies are blue and the breeze is gentle, the truth is this: the time to prepare is before the storm clouds gather. And if you’re a cat owner, you’re not just prepping for yourself. You’re prepping for a little ball of fur who’s likely hiding in the laundry basket wondering what all the fuss is about.
Whether you’re new to the coast or you’ve been through more than one storm, having a hurricane plan that includes your cat isn’t just smart—it’s essential.
Hurricane Preparations Step One: Have a Plan That Includes Whiskers
Let’s start with the basics: you can’t leave your cat behind. Not if you evacuate. Not if you’re just “going to check something” and plan to come back. Cats can’t fend for themselves in a hurricane. It’s scary, dangerous, and confusing for them—and heartbreaking for you.
So, let’s talk about making a plan that includes your feline family member:
- Know your evacuation zone. You can look it up online with your county or city. If you’re told to evacuate, go early. Don’t wait until the last minute when roads are jammed and hotels are full.
- Find pet-friendly places in advance. Whether it’s a hotel along your route, a family member’s home, or an emergency shelter that allows pets, have a list ready. And check their policies—some hotels drop their “no pets” rules during disasters, but it’s always good to call ahead.
- Make sure your cat is microchipped. And just as importantly—make sure the chip is registered and your contact info is up to date. A collar with an ID tag can help too, but many cats wriggle out of those.
Hurricane Preparations Step Two: Pack a Cat “Go Bag”
Your cat might not need to pack her favorite sunbeam or the windowsill, but she will need a few essentials. Here’s what to stash in a carrier or sturdy bag so you’re ready to roll:
- 🥫 At least two weeks’ worth of food (canned and/or dry) and a collapsible food dish
- 💧 Bottled water and a travel water bowl
- 🚽 Litter box, scoop, and a supply of litter (lightweight or clumping is best for travel)
- 🧸 A familiar blanket or soft toy to ease anxiety
- 💊 Medications and a printed copy of your cat’s medical records
- 🖼️ A photo of your cat, and one of you with your cat—just in case you get separated
- 🐾 A sturdy, well-ventilated carrier with your contact info taped on in waterproof marker or inside a plastic sleeve
Keep this bag somewhere you can grab it quickly—don’t bury it in the back of the closet behind the holiday decorations.
Step Three: If You’re Riding Out the Storm at Home

Not every storm means evacuation. If you plan to stay put, your goal is to create a safe, quiet, secure space for both you and your cat.
- Choose an interior room without windows—like a bathroom or large closet. Bring in food, water, litter, and bedding before the storm starts.
- Keep your cat indoors well before the weather turns. Storms can frighten even the most chill cats, and you don’t want to be searching for a hiding kitty when the winds pick up.
- Secure your home. Close windows, check for places where water might come in, and make sure dangerous items (cleaning supplies, heavy objects, sharp tools) are out of reach.
- Have a flashlight and battery-powered radio on hand in case the power goes out. A small battery fan can help if it gets stuffy.
If your cat is skittish, try lining the carrier with familiar bedding and leaving it open in the safe room. She may curl up in it voluntarily—which makes for a much easier time if you need to evacuate later.
Step Four: Hurricane Preparations for After the Storm Passes
It’s tempting to fling open the doors and breathe a sigh of relief—but hold off just a bit. The aftermath of a hurricane can be just as dangerous as the storm itself.
- Keep your cat indoors until you’ve checked the area for hazards—broken glass, downed power lines, displaced wildlife, or contaminated floodwater.
- If your cat got stressed or sick during the storm, watch for signs of illness or anxiety, like hiding, refusing food, vomiting, or bathroom issues. Don’t hesitate to contact your vet if something feels off.
- Restock your emergency kit. Replenish anything you used, and update your supplies if needed. This way you’re ready again without a scramble.
Final Thought: Your Cat is Counting on You
Disasters are hard. But planning ahead gives you power—even in the middle of chaos. And let’s be honest: our cats aren’t just pets. They’re family. They’re the soft nudge on your ankle when you’re stressed, the purring comfort in the dark, and the reason we keep spare boxes around the house even though we promised to recycle them.
Preparing for a hurricane isn’t fun. But knowing your cat is safe and accounted for? That’s worth every extra step.
Stay safe, stay dry, and hug your cat for us. 🐾