Anxiety and stress: Cars can be stressful for cats, as they are unfamiliar environments with loud noises, unfamiliar smells, and sudden movements. This can cause cats to become anxious and stressed, which can lead to hyperventilation.
Motion sickness: Some cats are prone to motion sickness, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and hyperventilation. Motion sickness is more common in younger cats and can be exacerbated by factors such as anxiety, stress, and hunger.
Temperature: If the car is too hot or too cold, this can also cause cats to hyperventilate. Cats are sensitive to temperature changes and can quickly become overheated or chilled, which can lead to hyperventilation.
History of respiratory problems: Cats with a history of respiratory problems, such as asthma or bronchitis, are more likely to hyperventilate in the car. This is because these conditions can make it difficult for cats to breathe easily, and the stress of being in the car can further exacerbate their respiratory problems.
It's important to note that hyperventilation can be a serious medical condition in cats, so it's important to take your cat to the vet if they are hyperventilating excessively in the car.