How To Travel With a Super-Anxious Cat
Most cats don’t particularly like to travel. Cats are homebodies by nature. They may wander far and wide, but they know their “home base” like the back of their paws; the act of travel can be very stressful for a cat who dislikes change. Especially if your cat isn’t used to traveling, doing so can make her visibly anxious.
Travel and the Anxious Cat
Why do cats hate to travel? Each feline has her own reason, but the unpredictability of it all is a huge factor; cats like being in control. There’s also a chance cats are sensitive to the vibrations caused by wheels or air travel, or have come to sense the connection between a short car ride and a vet visit. Whatever the reason, feline travel anxiety is extremely common. Cat anxiety manifests itself in many ways. Anxious behaviors can include:
- Hiding in a dark place
- “Marking” in places other than the litter box
- Extreme vocalization
- Slight panting
- Nausea or vomiting
Don’t wait until you’re in the car or plane to think about calming your cat’s anxiety. The time to prepare is now, well before you take your trip.
Preventing Travel Anxiety in Cats
Whether you’re planning to travel by car, by plane, or even by boat, it’s smart to prepare your cat well ahead of time. Here are a few suggestions for doing so.
Carriers
Most vets agree that your cat should ride in a carrier at all times during travel. Why? Because it’s safer for her, safer for others, and if prepped correctly, can serve as a calming environment. If your cat’s not used to a carrier, buy one as well ahead of time as you can. Place it in a central spot and leave the door open – feel free to add treats, a toy, or a soft blanket inside. Don’t pressure your cat to enter the carrier but instead allow her to explore it in her own time. As she starts to get more comfortable, close the door while she’s inside for brief periods of time to get her used to the sensation. Over the course of a few days or weeks, she’ll learn to associate it with a safe, cozy place.
Medication/Pheromones
If you’re particularly concerned about your cat’s anxiety during travel, talk to your vet about supplements and/or prescription medications. They’re not a good solution for every cat, but some pet owners have reported success using artificial pheromone products like Feliway. Herbs like catnip and valerian root have been suggested for use to curb anxiety. For cats with extremely severe travel anxiety, your vet may suggest prescribing a Benzodiazepine medication for one-time use.
What to do on Travel Day
Ideally, your cat will be used to her crate and have at least some experience with travel before the day of a big trip. The morning of, play with her more than normal so she’s extra tired by the time you need to leave. Keep her awake during periods of movement – you don’t want her to fall asleep at home and wake up in a car, confused. Always pack the cat last! Be as vocal as necessary with your cat during period of high-stress (i.e. getting in and out of a vehicle, during takeoff, etc.) so she knows she’s safe. Resist the urge to take her out of her carrier; it’s the safest and most calming spot for your cat. Try to keep her carrier as flat and still as possible to avoid jostling. If your cat likes the dark, consider draping her carrier with a piece of light, breathable fabric to create an extra-cozy space. A little panting and a lot of meowing is normal. When you reach your destination, open the carrier once you’re in a safe, contained space (such as a hotel room or a closed kitchen). Don’t let your cat out until you’ve set out water and a litter box! Stay with her as you settle into your new surroundings; unpacking can wait until she’s calmer and relaxed. Cats have a tendency to explore, especially if they think they’re just a little farther from home than usual, so take precautions that she doesn’t get loose during those first few days.
