Expert: Jessica - 3/28/2011

Question
I am getting ready to drive across the US with my cat. The space is small and he almost never been in the car. I wanted to know if drugs were a good idea. Also I have no room for a carrier.

Answer
Hi Sandy,

I very strongly suggest that you find a way to get a carrier into the car. Even if you have to find the smallest size he can fit and and make some frequent stops along the way so he can stretch his legs, eat and use the litter box, keeping him in a carrier is safest for him and you. Cats tend to climb on the dashboard and under your feet while you drive, and this will hinder your vision and your ability to step on the brakes.

Drugs are not usually the best idea, because the ones that are effective in cats can suppress breathing slightly. Since the cat may already be in an area that isn't well ventilated, this can be a bad combination. It also can make monitoring the cat's health during the trip difficult. But if you know he becomes extremely upset during trips, you can talk to your vet about a sedative. The most commonly prescribed one is acepromazine. This is a powerful but safe tranquilizer. Some vets will advise giving Bendadryl. But most cats don't benefit from this and can actually become hyper, instead.

Good luck on your trip!

Jessica