Cats, creatures of habit and guardians of their familiar territories, aren't typically fond of travel. While they may roam confidently within their known spaces, their home base is their sanctuary. Introducing them to new environments can lead to visible signs of anxiety and discomfort.

Their reluctance to travel stems from a mix of reasons. Cats cherish their routines and sense of control, which clashes with the unpredictable nature of travel. Some may associate car rides with visits to the vet or feel uneasy with the vibrations of vehicles or planes.

As a result, travel-induced stress and anxiety are major triggers for motion sickness in cats. This stress can manifest in behaviors such as seeking out secluded hiding spots, marking outside the litter box, increased vocalization, slight panting, and occasionally nausea or vomiting.

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PROACTIVE PREPARATION IS KEY when it comes to calming your cat's travel anxiety. Don't wait until you're on the road or in the air to address their stress; start preparing well in advance of your trip.

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Preventing Travel Anxiety in Cats

Regardless of your mode of transport – car, plane, or even boat – preparing your cat for travel in advance is essential. Here are a few helpful tips to make the journey smoother.

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Carriers: Making Travel Safe and Calm

Most vets recommend using a carrier for your cat during travel – it's the safest option for both your feline companion and those around them. Plus, with proper preparation, the carrier can become a source of comfort for your cat.

If your cat isn't familiar with a carrier, introduce it well in advance of your trip. Place it in a central location, leave the door open, and entice them with treats, toys, or a cozy blanket. Allow them to explore at their own pace. Gradually introduce the closed-door experience, starting with short intervals, to help them associate the carrier with a safe, comfortable space. Over time, your cat will learn to see the carrier as a haven, not a prison.

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Calming Your Cat's Travel Anxiety: Medication and Pheromones

If you're worried about your cat's travel anxiety, consult your veterinarian about supplements or prescription medication. While not suitable for every cat, some owners find success with artificial pheromone products like Feliway. Natural options and herbs like catnip or valerian root have also been suggested to ease anxiety. For severe cases, your vet may recommend a single-use dose of benzodiazepines.

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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.

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Travel Day Tips: Keeping Your Cat Calm and Safe

Assuming your cat is accustomed to their carrier and has some travel experience, the day of your trip requires extra care.

• Tire them out: Engage in extra playtime in the morning to ensure your cat is exhausted before departure.
• Keep them awake: Avoid letting them fall asleep at home and having them wake up on their journey. The confusion might freak them out, creating a less than ideal situation.
• Comfort through voice: Use reassuring words during stressful moments like entering/exiting vehicles or during takeoff/landing to signal safety and security.
• Carrier is key: Resist the urge to remove them from their carrier – it's their safe space and the place where they will be most calm along their journey.
• Minimize jostling: Keep the carrier flat and still to avoid discomfort.
• Create an ideal environment: If your cat likes the dark, consider covering the carrier with a light, breathable fabric for added comfort.

Arrival and Settling In:

• Safe space: Open the carrier only when you reach your final destination and are in a secure, confined area, like a hotel room or a closed kitchen.
• Essentials first: Set out water and a litter box before releasing your cat.
• Stay with them: Remain with your cat as they acclimate to their new surroundings.
• Cautious exploration: Keep a close eye on your cat as they explore – they may wander further than they realize.

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Traveling with a cat is like going on an adventure with a whimsical, opinionated companion. With proper planning and a sprinkle of patience (plus a treat or two), it can turn into a surprisingly enjoyable journey for both you and your furry co-traveler. Wheels up!

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Sources:

https://www.thespruce.com/reducing-anxiety-in-cats-554064

https://www.thespruce.com/reduce-cat-stress-3384587

http://www.catster.com/lifestyle/5-tips-calm-cat-car-travel

https://www.pethub.com/article/pet-care/tips-on-how-to-move-or-travel-with-your-cat

https://www.vetinfo.com/cat-travel-anxiety-diphenhydramine.html

http://cats.lovetoknow.com/cat-care/what-do-if-your-cat-has-travel-anxiety

http://consciouscat.net/2016/11/21/feline-pheromone-products-theyre-not-created-equal/

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