News Archive:
Travel Sickness in Pet Animals
Many cats and dogs are sick either the moment
you put them in the car or at some time along the journey. As well as genuine travel sickness they can also get very anxious or stressed by a car or plane journey which can lead to drooling excessively or urinating and defaecating.
Here are some hints to prevent or minimise this:
- Always travel with your cat in a sturdy cat box. This is much better than having a terrified cat getting stuck under your brake pedal. Some cats like to be covered up, whilst others prefer to see out. Try both options with your cat to find out what works best.
- Dogs should be strapped in with a harness connected to the seat belt or in a suitable cage or confined area in the back of the car.
- Not EVERY car trip should be to the vet! Some pets may associate ALL car trips with trips to the vet and this can increase their anxiety.
- Some medication can be helpful.
The following is a list of suggested medications that you may find helpful. All are readily available from your local vet:
ACEPROMAZINE (or ACE, or ACP)
This is a tranquiliser that reduces anxiety levels and suppresses vomiting. It can be very effective but it does tranquilise cats and dogs. It is inappropriate if you are going on a trip and expect a happy, bouncy dog at your destination that you can take for a walk and play with.
ACEPROMAZINE is often used in dogs and cats at times of fireworks and thunderstorms to settle them down.
There is a lot of individual variation in an individual animals response to this drug. It is very safe - but in some animals the amount and duration of the tranquilisation is a lot more than what you might be expecting. Animals will look really "zonked" and their 3rd eyelids usually protrude across their eyes.
VALIUM
This is a tranquiliser and muscle relaxant that can be more useful in cats than Acepromazine. It can stimulate their appetite though...... I've seen cats trying to eat their cage!
MAXOLON
Is very useful in dogs to reduce vomiting and drooling in the car and doesn't cause tranquilisation. It is a good choice for short trips to the park where you want to be able to play with your dog once you get there.
