Cat owners who have experience with feline traveling companions often have experience with feline motion sickness. Motion sickness is characterized by nausea, vomiting, excessive salivation, whining, apprehension and, occasionally, diarrhea. It can happen during any type of travel (car, boat, airplane, etc.) and can be caused by a combination of movement and fear of the vehicle the cat is traveling in. With a little preparation and information, motion sickness can be successfully prevented.
Things You'll Need
- Travel crate
- Cat treat
- Car (or access to a car)
- Tranquilzing medication
Instructions
Preventing Motion Sickness In Cats
Purchase a cat travel crate several days (if not weeks) before the trip. Make sure the crate is large enough for the cat to stand up and completely turn around inside.
Set the crate up in your home. Place a cat treat into the crate, and leave the door of the crate open. Allow the cat to explore the crate in privacy, at its own pace.
Make at least two to three short trial trips in the car to acclimate the cat to travel. These trips alone are enough to prevent motion sickness in some cats. Increase the length of time you spend on the trial trips each time you take one.
Make a note of its behavior if the cat shows signs of discomfort during the short trips. Tell your veterinarian exactly what the cat's signs of discomfort are (drooling, excessive crying, panic, etc.). Your veterinarian may prescribe a tranquilizer appropriate for your cat to prevent motion sickness.