Do pets get sedated on flights?

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), sedatives should not be dispensed for transporting animals except in rare circumstances. Cargo holds in aircraft are pressurized at high altitudes, and the effects of sedation at 8,000 feet or higher are poorly understood.



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Transporting your precious pet to another country is a complicated process, and can cause pet parents to worry about the safety and comfort of their pets. It is important to remember that however long the flight is, do not give your pet a sedative unless expressly advised by the vet.

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To alleviate stress during air transport, sedatives are sometimes prescribed (4).

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When it comes to flying with pets, one common question that pet owners often ask is whether they should sedate their pets during air travel. At PetRelocation, our straightforward answer is NO. Sedation carries various risks and is not recommended for pets during air travel.

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According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), sedatives should not be dispensed for transporting animals except in rare circumstances. Cargo holds in aircraft are pressurized at high altitudes, and the effects of sedation at 8,000 feet or higher are poorly understood.

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How to Help Pets Stay Calm During a Flight
  1. Work on crate training. ...
  2. Exercise! ...
  3. Don't feed your dog too close to a flight, as this could cause an upset stomach. ...
  4. Talk to your vet if you have any additional questions or need some advice about preparing for pet travel.


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Animals can also suffer the effects of atmospheric pressure, like humans, and may present: mild ear pain; decreased hearing; tinnitus.

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As long as your kitty stays in the kennel, there's nothing you can do if your cat starts meowing. Call the airline about their pet policy so you won't get a big surprise. You vet can also prescribe a mild sedative to help your cat relax a bit.

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The whole process of flying can be stressful for a dog, but those levels of stress can be greatly reduced with a few simple home comforts and reassurances. Ensuring your flight is a non-stop flight rather than one with changeovers can be a huge benefit to your dog, as can looking to travel at a suitable time.

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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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On the day of travel, take your dog for a long walk or run so he or she can expend as much energy as possible. Remember to feed your pet dog or cat no more than six hours before the flight. Flying on a full stomach is not recommended; feed your pet a little less than usual on the day of the flight.

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All airlines flying to and from the United States must allow psychiatric service dogs on their flights. PSDs are allowed to board flights in the cabin free of charge as long as the passenger submits the DOT's Service Animal Transportation Form in advance.

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You can reduce stress associated with new situations by bringing your dog's bedding and some of their favorite toys. Be sure the toys are safe, as you may not be able to directly supervise your dog during travel. Using a pheromone product such as Dog Appeasing Pheromone (Adaptil™) may reduce anxiety.

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So can engine noise, changes in pitch, altitude, and air pressure; all of which may lead to whining and barking. Even more: If your pup isn't used to being in a crate, confinement can cause frustration or outright panic. Then comes the attention-seeking.

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Psychiatric Service Dogs Can Fly On All Airlines The Air Carrier Access Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in air travel, according to the Department of Transportation. If you are traveling internationally, make sure to check the regulations in your destination regarding service dogs.

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Your pet can travel on the plane with you (either in-cabin, as accompanied baggage, or as cargo). Your pet will be charged accordingly. Some airlines no longer offer this option and some countries do not allow pets to enter the country in-cabin. You can book your pet on a separate flight.

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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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What Are the Best—And Safest—Sleeping Pills for Flights?
  • Ambien. Ambien—the most powerful option on this list and the only one that requires a prescription—works as a sedative-hypnotic medication that slows your brain activity to make you feel very sleepy. ...
  • Tylenol PM. ...
  • Melatonin.


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