How do I relax my cat for flying?

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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As loving pet parents, we want to ensure the best possible travel experience for our furry friends. That's why the American Veterinary Medical Association strongly advises against using tranquilizers or sedatives. In fact, airlines won't even accept sedated or tranquilized dogs and cats.

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Although some cats may be well suited to travel and there are times when you may not have much choice, changes in a cat's routine or surroundings are usually stressful. The majority of cats are creatures of habit and prefer to stay in a familiar environment. Start by asking if your cat will enjoy the experience.

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A carrier will help keep you, your cat, and other people on the road safer. Our favorite carrier is the Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed. The Sleepypod doubles as a cat bed and a carrier, which allows for your cat to travel in the comfort of her own bed. This is perfect if your cat gets stressed while traveling.

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


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Confine your pet Use a pet restraint, preferably a hard-shelled crate, to keep your cat contained in the car. If you're flying to your new home, follow your airline's recommendations for the proper crate or carrier. Make sure the carrier is secured and level in a seat with a vent pointing toward it for ventilation.

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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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The middle seats have more space under the seats. Once you board the plane, your cat's carrier will have to go under the seat in front of you. On many airlines, the middle seat has the most room for your cat's carrier.

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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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You won't always know if your cat even needs to go as some cats will stay silent while others might meow to alert you that they're feeling discomfort. Most cats will be able to hold it in for shorter flights that are around 1-4 hours while some cats may even hold it for longer flights that extend to 8-10 hours.

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You may think that your upcoming travel plans won't affect your cat, but it's actually quite common for cats to get separation anxiety. Learn to recognize the signs of cat anxiety and follow our tips to help your cat cope while you're enjoying a well-deserved vacation.

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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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