How to Calm a Cat to Travel

Cats are creatures of habit, and many of them are stressed out by car travel. If you have attempted to take your cat for a car ride, she may have protested by scratching, meowing, hissing or even splaying out her limbs to prevent you from putting her into a carrier. To prevent these problems in the future, you can calm your cat with different kinds of positive reinforcement and, if necessary, prescription drugs.

Things You'll Need

  • Cat carrier
  • Litterbox
  • Treats
  • Catnip
  • Blanket
  • Cat pheromone spray
  • Prescription anti-anxiety medication
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Instructions

    • 1

      Select an appropriate carrier for your cat. Make sure it is large enough so your cat can stand up and turn around. Choose a carrier with a secure latch and side air vents so that your cat has plenty of fresh air to breathe.

    • 2

      Place the carrier in your cat's favorite room, and put her favorite blanket and toy inside. Sprinkle catnip inside the carrier and add a treat from time to time. This will cause your cat to associate her carrier with positive stimuli.

    • 3

      Spray the inside of your car with a cat pheromone spray, available at most pet stores.

    • 4

      Take your cat on a few short, five to ten minute trips in the car before going on a big trip.

    • 5

      Keep your cat in her carrier at all times. Place the carrier on the floor of the car, or buckle the carrier in to a seat.

    • 6

      Talk to your cat in a calm voice to soothe her as you drive.

    • 7

      Stop frequently on long trips to give food and water to your cat, and allow her to use her litterbox.

    • 8

      Ask your veterinarian about a prescription drug that can calm your cat during travel if she continues to show signs of anxiety.