Do cats hate plane rides?

“The average cat does better with flights than we expect,” says Dr. Carlo Siracusa, staff veterinarian, behavior medicine, at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Veterinary Medicine. If you do think a sedative might be necessary, a “trial run” is always a good idea, suggests Dr.



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Most of the time, cats travel quite well without the need for medication. Some cats, on the other hand, experience tremendous stress when subjected to air travel. Consult your veterinarian to create the best travel plan for your cat if she does not travel well.

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Recognizing that cats can also suffer from fear, anxiety, and stress while traveling – just like some people – I practice plenty of calming, Fear Free tactics when traveling with Casey. Let me share some strategies I use that may make the flight far more welcoming for you and your cat: * Pack with a feline purpose.

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These short-headed brachycephalic cat breeds are more prone to respiratory problems in general; adding the stress and anxiety of air travel can make breathing even more difficult. Additionally, pressure changes at altitude can hurt cats' ears, similar to how your own ear might pop, says Dr. Smith.

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Strategies to de-stress feline flights include:
  1. A Thundershirt® which swaddles the cats much like swaddling an infant and can reduce anxiety.
  2. Feliway® pheromone wipes and spray can be used in the carrier prior to flying can help lower anxiety.
  3. A pheromone calming collar can help to lower anxiety.


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Most of the time, traveling is quite safe for cats. For extended trips that will be a week or longer, traveling with your cat may make more sense than leaving them at home.

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With some research and preparation, both you and your kitty can fly safely and in comfort. The rules are much the same as when flying with a dog, but as with canines, you should still talk with your vet and your airline ahead of time.

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It's not necessarily cruel to put a dog on a plane, but it can be a stressful experience for them. It's important to take steps to ensure your dog's safety and comfort during the flight, including choosing a reputable airline, providing a comfortable carrier or crate, and preparing them properly for the journey.

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“Because dander is so small and sticky, it attaches itself to clothes, furniture, air and airplane seats. The confined space of a plane could definitely pose a hazard for patients with cat allergy,” Jacobson says, adding that wiping down your seat is a good idea.

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Adult dogs and cats easily make it through the night without having to relieve themselves, so your pet should also be OK on most very long flights. Regardless, you'll have to line their carrier with something absorbent - a Dry Fur pad works nicely under your pet's own crate pad or thin blanket.

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Dogs and humans aren't the only ones who can suffer from car sickness or motion sickness. Cats can also develop gastrointestinal distress while traveling in the car, and for some, traveling by air or boat can induce the same reaction. Vomiting is, of course, the tell-tale sign of motion sickness.

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Usually dogs are only allowed to fly in the cabin—known as carry-on pets—if they can comfortably fit in a carrier that you can stow under the seat in front of you. A small number of airlines, including JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, and Etihad Airways, allow passengers flying with dogs to buy an extra seat for their pet.

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Pros: A flight is much faster than a drive, so you can get it over with pretty quickly! Plus, if you fly with your cat in-cabin, you can still be next to your pet and provide it with comfort. Cons: In many ways, flying can be more stressful for cats.

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Your cat can feel quite alone during the loss of their normal routine when you are away. So: If you go on a holiday, ask your personal cat sitter to not only give your cat their usual fresh water, food and cat litter, but also sufficient time to play and attention.

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The mild sedative used in Benadryl is sometimes recommended by veterinarians for anxiety. An example would be traveling by car or airplane. Some cats get quite anxious or upset when traveling and giving Benadryl can be an excellent sedative for traveling.

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Benadryl dosage for cats You should always consult your vet before beginning any medication regimen. However, recommended doses of Benadryl for cats are typically 1 mg per 1 pound, to be given every 8-12 hours as needed.

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