Performing first aid on our cats is not something we want to think about. However, by catexploring with them, we are increasing the risk that we need to perform some form of first aid.

The benefits of exploring the world with our cat far outweigh the risks of the potential injury they may obtain. But we still should be prepared for those situations.

A great way to prepare is to have a pet first aid kit on hand. You can either purchase your own (list below), create one or do a combination of both.

If you are not trained in veterinary medicine, we always recommend taking your cat to the vet when they are injured or ill. Do you best to keep them calm till you can get to a vet.

With this in mind, we also recommend that you are aware of the closest veterinary clinic to you, particularly if you are catexploring in a new area. If you’re going to an area that may be remote, without cellular data reception, ensure you have the details of the clinic and directions on paper.

Pet First Aid Classes

Some organisations offer pet first aid classes, which may help you be prepared for those emergencies.

Google “Pet First Aid Class” & your location to find options near you. Some options are:

• In the US - Pet Tech

• In Canada - Walks ‘N’ Wags

• In Australia – RSPCA

Pet First Aid Kits

The items that can be included in a pet first aid kit are quite long. In reality, it will difficult to lug these on a long hike.

With this in mind, perhaps create a bigger first aid kit to keep at home/keep in the car and create a smaller one for when you are on a walk.

Pet First Aid Kits for Purchase

You can purchase a readymade pet first aid kit.

Some may not have everything on our list, but you can also always add to them.

Some options are:

• RC Pet Products First Aid Kit

• 45 piece first aid kit from New Market Squared

• Kurgo Pet First Aid Kit

• Dog Culture Pet First Aid Kit

What to Include in a First Aid Kit for Your Cat

• Pillowcase to help restrict your cat in an emergency

• 4”x4” gauze pads for bleeding wounds

• Non-stick gauze pads for bandaging

• Roll gauze for bandaging

• Bandage tape

• Tampon (for bleeding wounds)

• Band-aids for human

• Syringe for flushing wounds & for helping administer tablets

• Hand wipes

• Small knife

• Tweezers

• Scissors

• Disposable latex gloves

• Printed photo of your cat

• Spare medications that your cat may be on

• Tick remover

• Flea and tick comb

• Duct tape

• Your cat’s medical records – especially if they have needed special care

• A bottle of leucillin (an antiseptic spray)

• Claw trimmers

• Bee sting wipes

• Ice pack

• Emergency blanket

• Cotton pads

• Inflatable cone of shame (cone collar)

• Blood stop (for toenail injuries)

• Waterproof pouch

• Saline solution

• Cleaning liquid

• Benadryl tablets (1mg per lb for dogs and cats) – can be used for bug bites, bee stings, snake bites, mild sedation

• List of emergency phone numbers including those for your cat’s veterinarian, an after hours emergency veterinary hospital, and the National Animal Poison Control Centre (1- 888-426-4435 in the US) and money to make a phone call.