Long-haul trucking can be lonely, but some drivers have found the perfect solution: bringing their cats along for the ride. For truckers who spend days or weeks on the road, having a feline co-pilot offers comfort and companionship.
In fact, there’s an entire online community for truckers with cats. The TruckerCats subreddit currently has over 93,000 members who share stories, tips, and photos from life on the road.
If you're considering life with a semi-truck cat, there's a lot to think about.
Why Some Truckers Bring Pets on the Road
Driving for long hours can be repetitive and isolating. A truck pet can break up the monotony and give drivers a sense of home. A pet provides routine and emotional support, especially during long stretches between stops. Dogs and cats both offer companionship, but cats are especially low-maintenance, making them a solid choice for life in the cab.
Is It Safe and Legal for Truckers to Have Cats in a Semi-Truck?
It is both safe and legal in most cases to travel with a cat in your truck. Legally, there are no federal rules that ban pets in commercial vehicles. The most important factor is keeping your trucker cat secure while driving. Cats should be in a carrier or secured with a pet harness when the vehicle is in motion. Letting a cat roam freely can be dangerous during sudden stops or emergencies.
However, individual trucking companies may have their own policies. Before adopting a cat or bringing one from home, check with your employer to confirm their pet policy. Some companies embrace pets, while others restrict or prohibit them.
Pros and Cons of Trucking With a Cat
Like anything in trucking life, bringing a cat along has its ups and downs. Every trucking cat brings joy, but there are also responsibilities to consider.
Pros
- Companionship during long hauls
- Reduced stress and loneliness
- Minimal grooming and exercise needs
- Quiet and independent behavior
Cons
- Cleaning the litter box in a confined space
- Keeping the cat safe while driving
- Finding places to buy litter and food on the road
- Risk of escape during refueling or rest stops
Before deciding to bring your cat along, consider your cat’s personality and how it handles change. Some cats love new environments, while others may not tolerate the shifting routine of life in a truck.
Tips for Traveling with a Cat in a Semi-Truck
If you decide to bring a cat with you, some preparation can make the journey smoother for both of you.
- Get a travel-friendly litter box: Find a sturdy litter box that fits in your cab. Scoop daily to prevent smells.
- Use a semi-truck cat tower: These space-saving towers provide your cat with a place to perch and scratch.
- Get an air-tag collar: An air-tag collar makes it easy to track your cat in case they get loose.
- Keep your cat comfortable: A soft truck mattress, a comfy, padded passenger seat, blanket, or pet bed helps your cat relax during long trips. Bring plenty of toys to enjoy during downtime to make the space feel more like home.
- Partner with pet-friendly trucking companies: Look for employers who allow pets and offer support, such as veterinary reimbursement or pet vehicle modifications.
- Maintain a feeding and play schedule: Cats appreciate routine, even when traveling.
- Keep your cat secure and safe: Make sure your cat has a comfortable harness and carrier. Don’t forget their vet records in case of an emergency.
Find Comfortable Truck Seats for You and Your Trucker Cat Today
If you and your cat are logging long miles together, a supportive seat makes a big difference. Suburban Seating & Safety offers a wide selection of replacement semi-truck seats and mattresses designed to keep drivers relaxed and alert.
Shop online, visit our showroom in Lodi, NJ, or contact us for help selecting the best seat for your lifestyle. Your semi-truck should be comfortable for both you and your feline co-driver.
