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Question

Is there an over the counter sleeping aid I can give my cat for a long road trip?

Submitted: 108 days and 12 hours ago.
Category: Cat
Value: $15
Status: AWAITING CUSTOMER ACTION
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Optional Information

Pet's Sex: Female
Pet's Age: 12

Already Tried:
None

Posted by Reani 108 days and 12 hours ago.

Info Request

Good evening,

How long of a trip are you going on?
Will she be travelling in a carrier by car?

Standing by to help...

Reani

108 days and 11 hours ago.

Reply

Our trip will be 14 hours. We are traveling by car and she does not like it at all. We have tried driving several times for 2 -8 hours with her and the entire time she pants, cries, tremors, salivates, paces, bites, and begins pulling her hair out.. We have tried both travelling with her in a carrier and without. We are just out of options. Our vet suggests boarding her, but the cost is high and her behavior is the same as a car ride. She comes home half bald. Any suggests of a medication that will make her sleep for even a brief period during the trip would help greatly!

Answer

Good Evening,

While there are no safe tranquilizers over the counter for your cat, you can help her....get a spray called Feliway and spray the inside of her carrier, or spray a towel and place it in the carrier with her. This smells like a friendly cat pheromone which is quite relaxing to them. Also, get a product called rescue remedy and either put it in her water for a week prior to traveling or rub some on her gums. It is also relaxing and should help to take the edge off.

I would suggest trying these things and taking her on a short ride to see how she does. If no help after a half hour or so of driving, talk to your vet about a light tranquilizer for the trip.

The best thing for her would be to find someone to feed her once or twice a day and clena her litter. She will at least be in her own home. If you do not know anyone, ask your vet if they know of any petsitters that would be willing to check on your girl. They usually charge much less than boarding.

I hope that helps you!

Warmest Wishes,
Reani

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Expert: Reani
Pos. Feedback: 99.8 %
Accepts: 
Answered: 8/7/2009

Cat Care Expert

20+ years experience with Cat Care and behavior problems, 3 years Pet Rescue

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