Moving from Michigan to Colorado with a 15 year old cat. What steps do I take? Elevation changes?

Question

Phillip is a healthy, 15 year old, medium hair cat that I have raised since he was 8 weeks old. We're inseparable, and I can't imagine leaving him behind. When I moved to Argentina for a year (about 6 years ago now - wow), Phillip wouldn't sleep anywhere else but my room in my parents home. His health began to deteriorate, but immediately bounced back when I returned. This, paired with several similar experiences, have convinced me that Phillip will be better off moving with me to Colorado instead of finding another home for him in Michigan.

I'll be moving a month from tomorrow, and I'll be calling the vet today. Phillip is not a fan of car rides, so I figured a light sedative for the 20 hour drive would be best while he stays inside a soft animal carrier with plenty of ventilation and he'll be able to see me the entire time. 

The main thing I'm concerned about at this point would be how the change in elevation could possibly effect his health. Is there anything in particular I should be concerned about, or will he be able to adapt to changes in altitude much like I will? I figure that ensuring he has plenty of water, wholesome food, lots of attention, and a bit of catnip about three times a week to aid in his digestion would be best. I won't be working immediately after my arrival, so I'll be able to stay with him during the day to make sure he doesn't get any more stressed from being left alone after moving so far into a strange house.

Furthermore, does anyone have any advice or stories regarding moving with a cat long distance that could be helpful? I really appreciate it, and so does Phillip. ;) His happiness and comfort is of the utmost importance to me.

? · Accepted Answer

I moved 5,000 kilometres with two cats in the car with me. I started them out in carriers but it didn't take long before I let them out. There's no sedating cats for that long, and they were too old to be sedated (18 yrs). 

We travelled through the Rockies and they didn't seem bothered by the changes in elevation. They were fine and survived the trip intact.

? · Answer

Get in contact with the judge that awarded you custody. Explain the situation to the judge to get some sort of court ordered protection from the child's mother. If the court did not give the mother visitation rights, stop the visitation. Tell the grandmother that she can't have any visitation pending the judges new decision. Explain to the daughter that her behavior will no longer tolerated, there are rules to follow in your home and be firm without creating a shouting match. She will try you. I would suggest that you take away some of her privileges until her behavior gets better. Find out what the 20 year olds name, address and what ever else that you can find out about him and file a police report on him for statutory rape. Your could file charges on the mom for child endangering.

Anonymous · Answer

Oh snaps, he will die soon, I had a lovely cat who was so nice, gave so many kittens ( untill I had to nueter her) and was such a good loyal cat. I cant remember for how many years, but I know 10 at least, I got her when I was about 5 years old, up until my mid-teens. My cat disapeared and now I dont know what has become of it.......*Sniff...Sniff*  *Slams laptop shut* ---------wtf, ok seriously enough of my retardednes, ummmm I think your cat should be fine, though I dont think it will live much longer.

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Moving from Michigan to Colorado with a 15 year old cat. What steps do I take? Elevation changes?

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