Every summer the lakes in the Thompson-Okanagan region are filled with paddleboarders enjoying the sunny season and sometimes they bring along a pet.

While it’s more common to see dogs on boards, some paddlers take their cats along with them, either in a carrier or free-standing.

Plenty of cats are already riding aboard kayaks, canoes and sailboats, but it takes a bit of work to get them ready for water adventures.

iN PHOTOS: How to get your cat onboard a paddleboard in Okanagan, Kamloops this summer | iNFOnews.ca — A Kelowna kitty rides in a carrier on a paddleboard along with a dog friend.
SUBMITTED/Chantelle Ashley Delaire

Potential paddleboarding kitties should already be happy outdoors, and know how to walk on a leash and ride in a carrier, according to Adventure Cats. The cat should be comfortable wearing a lifejacket both on and off the water, and be encouraged to sniff and explore the paddleboard before going for a float.

Starting a cat out on a paddleboard takes multiple short trips at first to get it used to riding.

As the trips get longer, owners can bring their cat water, food, treats and a carrier bag so it can get out of the sun.

The cat can wear a lifejacket for safety, but also a harness and leash to pull them out of the water with if they fall overboard.

Taking a cat out on the water requires the owner to be a good paddleboarder and able to recognize when the cat is thirsty, hungry or no longer wants to ride.