Many cats get nervous and agitated when it comes to car rides. Some might tremble, pant or even become physically ill. However, it’s possible to help your feline overcome car anxiety with some of the following tips.

1. Gradual Training

Training your cat slowly and gradually by starting with short distances and building up their confidence can help them become used to the car. This involves placing your cat in their carrier and taking them for a short, gentle drive around the block.

Repeat this frequently, gradually increasing the length of the drive over time.

2. Make the Carrier Comfortable

The carrier should be big enough for your cat to move around, stand up, and lie down comfortably. Put a soft cushion or blanket in it to give them a comfortable spot to rest.

Keep the carrier in the same place in your home, so your cat can get used to it and associate it with positive experiences.

3. Acclimation to Car Sights and Sounds

Avoid the negative association of being inside a moving car with illness or anything bad happening to your cat. Try to park outside of your house and hang out in the car with your cat.

Roll down the windows and let them hear the sounds outside, like the birds chirping and the car driving by. You can also turn the radio on low to play some soothing music.

4. Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is an effective way to encourage good behavior. You can give your cat some of their favorite treats and toys every time they get into the carrier or after successful short drives.

This will create a positive association with the carrier and the car ride.

5. Familiarity with the Destination

If you are travelling to the vet’s office or any other destination, bring your cat there during your free time to provide your cat familiarity with the place and the experiences they will encounter.

Spending time inside the vet’s waiting area with your cat will familiarize them to the environment and reduce anxiety.

6. Calming Aids

If your cat is still anxious and displaying severe symptoms during car rides, talk to your veterinarian about using calming aids. Some of these aids may include pheromone sprays, over-the-counter supplements, or prescription medicine.

These products can help soothe your cat’s anxiety and make them more relaxed during car rides.

7. Prevent Motion Sickness

Some cats may experience motion sickness in the car which can cause further distress along with anxiety. Avoid feeding your cat two hours before travelling and gradually increase the drives in order to limit the effects of motion sickness.

Speak with your vet about motion sickness medication if necessary.

8. Never Leave Your Cat Unattended

Always ensure that your cat is adequately secured while travelling to prevent any accidents. Never leave your cat in a parked car and ensure that a human is always with them when they are travelling.

9. A Safe Carrier for Travel

Make sure that your cat’s carrier is secure before placing it in the car for travel. Ensure that the carrier is secured in a seat and is not moving around during the journey.

This can provide your cat with a stable and safe environment to reduce their anxiety.

10. Keep Calm

Cats often go by our mood. It’s important to stay calm and composed during the car ride to aid in calming your cat. Don’t get flustered and anxious if your cat starts to display anxious behaviors.

Speak in soothing tones and comfort your cat through gentle touch.