Need help with decision about my cat

Hi,

I have a beautiful 5 year old tabby mix. We've lived in the same place for 3 years now. I'm going to be away for 1 month, and have the option of bringing him along--

Pro's: My cat hates it when I'm gone-- he doesn't eat very much, and according to my roommate he pines near the door. I've only left him for as much as 1 week before and I don't know what he'll do after a whole month.

Con's: Bringing him would involve an hour-long plane ride on a small aircraft. He does OK in the car when I bring him to the vet, but I don't know if a plane would qualify as "only slightly scarier than the car" or "tremendously traumatic kitty experience".

Of course I'd love to have him with me, but I'm trying to make this decision from the cat's point of view. Obviously, it is very difficult to tell what they're thinking.

Any advice? Anyone fly with a cat before? Is there anything I could do to make the plane trip less traumatic? Would he be happier without me for a month?

As far as the plane ride, Monte had no problem. I flew down to Florida from Michigan to pick him up. He slept the whole way back.

I am just not sure if bringing your cat is best. You will not be with him 24/7 when you are gone and he will out of his territory. I have always heard it is best to leave your pet at home where he is comfortable and familiar with his surroundings.

There are a lot of very knowledgeable people on this site and maybe someone has been in your situation and can tell you better.

I hope you have a safe trip!!

If he derives his security mostly from your presence, then I think it would be better for him if you brought him along.

This article might help you

http://www.thecatsite.com/Cats/Cat_C...with_Cats.html