GL: Cruising Cats

[Bonnie Crockett]

My two cats came aboard as kittens and always hid aft behind the pillows of
the walk around bunk when the engines started and pretty much stayed there
until the engines were turned off. I would check on them to be sure they
were okay; if the trip was a long one, I'd take water and food to them.
After awhile, they adapted and would come out into the main cabin, use the
littler box, eat and drink normally.

After six years of cruising, we moved ashore and they hid for three days,
but eventually adapted. After five years ashore, a few months ago they flew
with us in the cabin of the plane across country to where the new boat is
located. The vet gave me tranquilizers that I was able to get into
them without too much trauma (for me or them). I even had to take them out
of their under-the-seat soft carrying cases to go through security
check--which I did in a private room, one at a time, while the case went
through x-ray on the belt--and that went without a hitch. I also had to give
them another pill due to a layover. When I took them out of their cages upon
arrival at the boat, the medication had worn off and they immediately ran to
hide behind the pillows of the bunk! They have since re-adapted, but I do
find that now that they are older, are not so willing to go out on deck,
which is just fine with me as I don't have to worry about them roaming while
we are at the dock.

Bonnie Crockett
MV Third Time
Albin 40