Podcast Episode 5: Gabrielle Vachon – Kayaking with Cats
There’s nothing quite like being out on the water with your cat! It can be relaxing and calming, and it gives you and your cat a whole new world to explore. It’s not something you should rush into though! There is some training and special gear involved.
In this episode of the KittyCatGO Adventure Podcast, I chat with Gabrielle Vachon all about kayaking with cats. She shares valuable tips and advice for anyone wanting to try water sports with their cat, whether you’re a beginner or seasoned pro.
“You don’t want to be in a boat on the water for the first time with your cat. You need to be comfortable, I think, paddling the boat and being on the water. You need to be comfortable directing the boat as well, before you start trying train your cat to go in it. Because you need to be able to control the situation and always keep it a positive experience.”
–Gabrielle Vachon
Overview of the Episode:
- How Gabrielle and Munchkin got started kayaking
- Training steps for kayaking with your cat
- Using clicker training
- Canoeing and SUPing
- What to do for shade
- Using sunscreen for cats
- Desensitizing your cat to water
- Keeping your cat cool
- Finding a life jacket for cats
- Other gear needed for kayaking with your cat
- Treats used for training and adventures
- Tips for someone wanting to try kayaking with their cat for the first time

Resources & Gear:
Blog Post: How to Go Kayaking with Your Cat
Dermoscent SunFREE cat-safe sunscreen
My favorite life jacket for cats: Kurgo Surf N Turf (XS size)
Baltic Maja Cat Life Jacket
Blog Post: 21 Items to Include in a Cat First Aid Kit
Where to Find Gabrielle:
Instagram: @thefelineadventurer
YouTube: The Feline Adventurer
Facebook: @thefelineadventurer

Did you enjoy this episode? SUBSCRIBE and LEAVE A REVIEW!
You can subscribe and listen to the KittyCatGO Adventure Podcast through Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora, Pocket Casts, and anywhere else you might listen to podcasts.
To share the love and support what I do, I’d appreciate if you left a review for my show! This will help more people find it and learn more about traveling and adventuring with their cats.