Motion Sickness in Cats: 10 Tips to Help a Car Sick Cat

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Why does my cat throw up on car rides? Motion sickness in cats is quite common, and it’s usually related to stress and anxiety during travel. Thankfully, there are a number of ways to help a car sick cat and make traveling easier for you and your furry friend.

Cats are creatures of habit, and any disruption to their familiar routine and surroundings can cause stress. From the unfamiliar smells, sights, and sounds to the sensation of movement, car rides can send your cat’s anxiety into overdrive.

Understanding the root cause of your cat’s motion sickness is the first step towards finding a solution. With a little know-how and some handy tips, you can transform those stressful car rides into smoother, more enjoyable experiences for both of you.

What Causes Motion Sickness in Cats?

Motion sickness in cats can be caused by anxiety, stress, sensitivity to motion, or, rarely, an underlying medical issue. Let’s examine these factors individually to help you understand why your cat gets sick in the car.

Anxiety and Stress

Most motion sickness in cats is caused by stress and anxiety during travel. Unlike many dogs, who live for car rides, most cats don’t travel often. Many cats also associate car rides with stressful experiences that follow, such as a visit to the vet or a stay at the kennel. 

When coupled with unfamiliar sites, sounds, and movements, this association can trigger a stress response. Nausea, vomiting, and other signs of motion sickness are often the result.

Sensitivity to Motion

Just like humans, some cats are more sensitive to motion than others. The sensation of movement, combined with the stress of the car ride itself, can trigger the symptoms of motion sickness in cats. Winding roads, sudden stops, and bumpy rides can exacerbate their discomfort.

Underlying Medical Issues

Although much less common, motion sickness in cats can be associated with an underlying medical condition. Disorders of the inner ear, vestibular system, or gastrointestinal system can make a cat more susceptible to motion sickness.

If your cat experiences repeated bouts of motion sickness or suddenly experiences motion sickness when it’s never been a problem before, contact your vet to rule out any potential medical issues.

Recognizing the Symptoms of a Car Sick Cat

How can I tell if my cat is carsick? Let’s examine the most common signs of motion sickness in cats to help you determine if your cat is feeling sick in the car.

Pacing or Restlessness

If your cat seems unable to relax during car rides, it could be a sign of motion sickness. Restlessness is often caused by discomfort due to the unfamiliar environment and sensation of movement.

Excessive Drooling or Lip Licking

Excessive drooling or frequent lip licking is a telltale sign of motion sickness in cats. If this behavior is accompanied by other signs of motion sickness, it’s likely your cat is trying to cope with queasiness caused by stress and the motion of the vehicle.

Vomiting

If you’re wondering why your cat throws up on car rides, there’s a good chance he’s suffering from motion sickness. Vomiting is one of the most common and obvious symptoms, resulting from stress and anxiety, coupled with the sensation of movement.

Vocalization

Some cats express discomfort through vocalization, such as loud meowing or howling. If your usually quiet feline becomes surprisingly vocal on car rides, it could be a sign of motion sickness or anxiety.

Defecation or Diarrhea

In severe cases of motion sickness, cats may experience gastrointestinal upset, leading to defecation or diarrhea. This can be distressing for both you and your cat and may indicate that the motion sickness is causing significant discomfort.

Lethargy or Depression

Feeling unwell during car rides can take a toll on your cat’s energy level and mood. If your cat appears unusually lethargic during or after a car ride, it may be a sign of motion sickness. 

How to Prevent Car Sickness in Cats

With patience and a proactive approach, you can help your feline friend overcome car sickness. Use the following strategies to minimize stress and discomfort during travel, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience for you and your cat.

1. Utilize Carrier Training

The first step in reducing stress and anxiety associated with car travel is to make your cat more comfortable in his carrier. This process is called conditioning by behavior experts, and the objective is to teach your cat that the carrier is a safe and comfortable place to rest.

Don’t just take the carrier out right before a trip. Leave it out in a cozy spot somewhere in your home at all times, and place your cat’s favorite bedding inside. Offer special treats and toys in the carrier to encourage your cat to go in and out on his own until it becomes a favorite resting place.

2. Introduce Car Travel Gradually

Once the carrier itself is no longer a source of stress, the next of the conditioning process involves introducing car travel gradually. Start by simply placing the cat in his carrier inside your car, starting the motor, and simply sitting there for a few minutes.

Once your cat is comfortable with sitting inside the running car, begin taking short car rides around the block or just up and down the street. Repeat the process until your cat seems at ease. Be sure to offer lots of praise and reassurance throughout the process. When you return home, give your cat a food reward inside the carrier.

Gradually increase the duration of your car rides until your cat rides comfortably for at least 20-30 minutes. Conditioning your cat to ride comfortably in the car can take several days or even weeks. You can’t force a cat to overcome its anxiety, especially if it’s frightened.

Remember to be patient and calm. Do not scold your cat or show signs of anxiety. And if your cat is visibly stressed, take a break and try again another day. Continuing to expose your cat to stress in the car will only make the problem worse and cause setbacks in training.

3. Create a Comfortable Travel Environment

In addition to familiar bedding and toys, consider adding an item that carries your scent, such as a piece of clothing or a small blanket. Your scent provides comforting familiarity in an unfamiliar environment, helping to ease your cat’s anxiety.

Introducing a new toy specifically designated for travel can offer a distraction and help your cat associate car rides with fun. Be sure to place the carrier in a stable and secure location, such as the back seat or floor of the car, to minimize jolts and vibrations. 

4. Limit Food Before Travel

If possible, limit food for up to eight hours before a car ride. An empty stomach may reduce nausea and decrease the need for potty breaks during a longer trip. However, you should provide access to clean water at all times. A water bottle that hangs on the door of the carrier can be a good option.

5. Use Pheromone Sprays

Pheromone sprays, like Feliway, can be extremely effective for relieving stress and anxiety during training and travel. They mimic the natural calming scents produced by cats and can be sprayed inside the carrier before travel to create a soothing environment.

6. Provide Adequate Ventilation

Allow fresh air to circulate inside the carrier by providing adequate ventilation. This helps prevent your cat from feeling claustrophobic, reducing the risk of nausea or overheating due to stress.

7. Minimize Stressful Stimuli

Placing a lightweight blanket or towel over the carrier can create a cozy,den-like environment that reduces visual stimuli and promotes a sense of security. Playing soothing music or white noise in the car can also help create a calmer atmosphere.

8. Practice Positive Reinforcement

Reassure your cat with praise, treats, and affection throughout the trip. Positive reinforcement helps reinforce the idea that traveling in the car is a safe and enjoyable experience.

9. Adjust Your Travel Schedule and Take Breaks Regularly

Whenever possible, adjust your travel schedule and route to accommodate your cat’s needs. For example, traveling at night can help you avoid the noise and stops and starts of heavy traffic during rush hour. Or, perhaps you can choose a less curvy or bumpy route to minimize jolting.

Most importantly, remember to take regular breaks on longer trips to allow your cat to stretch his legs and use the litter box. Just be sure to keep the car doors closed whenever your cat is out of his carrier and use a harness and leash for added safety. A scared cat is much more likely to attempt escape and look for a place to hide.

10. Talk to Your Vet About Medication Options

Don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian for advice, especially if your cat’s car sickness persists despite your best efforts. Your vet can recommend calming supplements can be very effective for mild anxiety. Anti-nausea medications or sedatives may also be a good option if your cat’s symptoms are more severe.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do You Treat Motion Sickness In Cats?

Motion sickness in cats is typically treated with anti-nausea medication, such as meclizine, maropitant, or dimenhydrinate. These medications help treat the nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness. Sedatives can also be prescribed to alleviate stress and anxiety in some cases. Consult your vet for advice tailored to your cat’s specific needs.

How Long Does Motion Sickness Last in Cats?

The duration of motion sickness in cats will vary depending on the severity of your cat’s symptoms and the length of the car ride. Symptoms generally begin to subside as soon as the cat returns to his familiar environment, but some cats may experience symptoms for a short time after the car ride.

What Can I Give My Cat for Motion Sickness OTC?

If your cat experiences motion sickness on the road, Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) is a common over the counter medication that can reduce nausea and vomiting. It is generally considered safe for cats, but you must consult with a veterinarian for proper dosage and frequency of administration.

Ensuring Smooth Travels for Your Feline Friend

Remember, patience and consistency are key to helping your cat overcome motion sickness and travel anxiety. For personalized advice and assistance, reach out to the team at Bond Vet online or at one of our convenient locations. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate care and safer, happier travels for you and your furry feline friend.