What do you give a cat before traveling?

Medication prescribed by your veterinarian: Buprenorphine (brand names: Buprenex®, Simbadol®), gabapentin (brand name Neurontin®), and alprazolam (brand names Xanax® and Niravam®) are examples of medications that are sometimes used to reduce the anxiety that some cats experience when traveling.



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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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Although it may seem as if sedation is the best option, we do not recommend pets are sedated for stressful times such as fireworks and travel. Sedatives prevent them from acting normally but actually do little to reduce the fear they are experiencing.

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Yes, you can give your cat melatonin. Melatonin supplements are often given to cats to help with anxiety or stress-related issues that may cause difficulty sleeping.

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Withhold food for about four to five hours before the journey in case the cat is sick while traveling. Offer water up to the time you leave and again during the journey when possible.

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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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Some airports have pet relief stations that you can use. If you cannot find these, you can use a family bathroom with a door. Our suggestion is that you set up your cat litter tray with a little bit of cat litter. You can remove their business using the doggy bags while wearing your gloves.

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If your road trip is only a couple hours long, your cat will likely be fine without a pit stop. However, if you will be in the car for several hours, you should plan on taking a pit stop every few hours. Give your cat the opportunity to get a drink of water and go to the bathroom.

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For longer trips, you can use a carrier just like you would a short trip. You can also use a larger crate that has room for a litter box. Most cats will not use the box while in the car, but at least it is available to them if needed. In a carrier, you can line the cage with pee pads in case of an accident.

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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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There are three ways you can ship your pet via the airlines:
  1. Your pet can travel on the plane with you (either in-cabin, as accompanied baggage, or as cargo). Your pet will be charged accordingly. ...
  2. You can book your pet on a separate flight. ...
  3. You can have your pet shipped through a licensed commercial shipper.


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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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