Traveling with a cat, which is the better option?

Question

We have an 8 month old cat. He is very hyper and sensetive when we go anywhere with him (even to the short trip to the vet he yowls). In about three weeks, we are moving. Our move is about 5-6 hours by moving truck (my wife is going in the truck so he will be riding up front with her). I honestly think it will be too long and stressful for him. The second option is taking a bullet train which takes just under 3 hours, then I have to transfer to the subway and take a taxi. If I go via that method it will take about 4 hours. The train does allow pets in carriers.

Also I'm curious about whether it's safe to get something from his vet to sedate him a little.

Answer 1

I would try using Feliway spray in his carrier and on his bedding.  Spray it about 1/2 hour before you set off and it should calm him down.  You could also try putting flower remedies in his food/water for a couple of weeks before the move - probably Bach Rescue Remedy will be fine as it includes essences for stress/fear but you could also do some research into the 38 remedies (you can combine up to 6) to see which ones you think might apply to your cat.  

If you are seriously worried then your vet will certainly be able to give you a slight sedative to calm him down a little.  The above suggestions are just a more natural option.

Answer 2

yes maybe a little sedation medicine will do the trick. i would go with the 1st way, the truck. because the train way you have to change from train to taxi and that would be to much. a little sedation would do the trick. or even if the night b4 you all stay up to 3 or 4 in the morning you all could sleep in the truck.

good luck!!

Answer 3

We moved 20 hours drive with our cat a few years back... We did it all in one trip, didn't stop overnight or anything like that, but the cat was okay. I mean, she was one of those cats who freaked out in the car, but once they're in there for an hour they sort of realise it's not going to kill them! I would get a soft crate, rather than a normal cat carrier, and make it biggish so there can be space for a litter tray and some water. I would have water always accessible, if he stresses out he's going to get dehydrated so you really want to have water there for him. How old is the cat? I wouldn't sedate a young or old cat, too dangerous, and has he been sedated before? I personally wouldn't take the risk - have heard too many horror stories but if you are going to go down that track make sure he goes to the vet for a thorough checkup first. I would go the truck way, regardless of whether it's longer. Just remember, he's not going to be stressed out the whole way. Maybe the first hour or so, but certainly not the whole way. Good luck with your move!

Answer 4

Last year, I flew to Chicago to move my step daughter down to Dallas.  We packed her car and drove 18 hours with 2 cats and a dog.  It was rough at first, but the cats finally stopped howling after an hour or so.  

Don't feed them or water them until you stop.  We were in my town, and one of the cats pooped all over the back seat!  5 minutes away from the HOUSE!

6 hours sounds like nothing compared to the trip I took.  Bring a litter box for him to go in, but don't bother with the food or water.  Might want to invest in a harness and leash as well.

Happy moving!