What is the best cat sedatives for flying?

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



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Sedatives can interfere with regular breathing and other bodily responses, and pets may react differently and unexpectedly to medications when they are in the air. In fact, most airlines will not fly a sedated pet, as over-sedation can be a cause of animal death during air transport.

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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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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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Strategies to de-stress cat road trips include:
  1. A Thundershirt® which swaddles the cat much like swaddling an infant and can reduce anxiety.
  2. Feliway® pheromone wipes and spray can be used to prepare the carrier and can help to lower anxiety.
  3. A pheromone calming collar can contribute to reduce anxiety.


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A pheromone calming collar can help reduce anxiety. Medication prescribed by your veterinarian: Buprenorphine (brand names: Buprenex®, Simbadol®), gabapentin (brand name Neurontin®), and alprazolam (brand names Xanax® and Niravam®) are sometimes used to reduce travel anxiety.

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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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Helping your cat prepare for the upcoming relocation will make the trip more pleasant for you and your purring companion.
  1. Create a cozy cat space. ...
  2. Get used to a crate. ...
  3. Take short car rides. ...
  4. Practice leash walking. ...
  5. Confine your pet. ...
  6. Pack essentials in the car. ...
  7. Plan feline-friendly rest stops. ...
  8. Stay in cat-friendly hotels.


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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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If puppies or kittens less than 16 weeks of age are in transit more than 12 hours, food and water must be provided. Older animals must have food at least every 24 hours and water at least every 12 hours.

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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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Your ESA can still fly, just now as a pet. For domestic pets to fly in-cabin, there is a $125 service charge each way on United Airlines. If you have stopovers within the US for more than four hours, there may be an additional cost of $125.

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