Cat gets anxiety during car rides what can I do for him?

Question

I have to take my cat with me to my new house and he literally just gets so much anxiety that he runs away from us when we try to get him in his crate. Is there something like a tranquilizer or anything that I can give him to make it easier for him?

Ocimom · Answer

Use Feliway calming spray in the carrier.  Cover the carrier with a towel.  I would not use medication on cats for traveling.  Don't feed him right before you leave the house.  He will be ok for a few hours.

Put a towel or two in the carrier for him to hide while riding.  And do NOT let him loose in the car no matter how much he cries or tries to get out.

Anonymous · Answer

Yes, ask your vet, a tranquilzer  can be given.

? · Answer

The vet can give you some anxiety medication.  Our current cat is like this.  Only has to travel once a year for his checkup.  We hid the crate outside.  Pick him up and cuddle for 15 mins.  Than someone grabs the crate and in he goes.  Put him in hind legs first and tilt it up horizontally to get him in.  Our vet showed us this.  Good luck on your move

Karen L · Answer

Your vet may be able to prescribe something. There are meds they can give very anxious cats who are coming in for treatment and one of those ought to work. There are over-the-counter things that are supposed to help with anxiety sold at most pet supply stores though I have tried several with no effect.

I also have a cat who disappears when the crate appears. What I do is bring the crate in a day or two ahead of when the cat must travel and put it where the cat can see it. I open the door or lid of the crate. When it comes time for the cat to go into it, I pick up the cat as if he's just going to get a cuddle. Then I walk near the crate and quickly switch my grip on the cat so I have his front paws held in one hand, quickly put the cat in head first and shut the door as fast as I can. A cat which can't use its front paws can't do much to stop being put in the crate. You might want to practice a few times.

Laura · Answer

No, you can't tranquilize or sedate an animal when traveling unless a vet will be there to monitor the animal for the trip.  
You need to get your cat used to their crate.  Leave it out and open.  Put toys and catnip inside.  Put treats inside and let your at cat get them in their own time.  
Leave the crate out 24/7 so it isn't scary.

Anonymous · Answer

Yeah, give him a couple of shots of cat scotch, that will settle his nerves.

Cat gets anxiety during car rides what can I do for him?

6 Answers