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How to safely fly with an anxious cat on a long international trip?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Persian | Male | unneutered | 5 months and 2 days old | 4 lbs

Hi so he gets freaked out by loud noises if I take him some place where it's noisy he will dig claws into me and hold on for dear life and we'll be going to canada soon and we will go through 3 different flights and in 1 of them he'll be in the cargo hold and in the other as checked baggage and the last on he'll be in the cabin so I am kinda worried for him will he be ok I live in pakistan and if I rehome here his new owners won't take care of him and he will probably die

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 18th, 2017

Hello, thats certainly a long flight. Cats in general have the demeanor of being cautious about new environments, noises, and objects so it is not surprising he becomes very stressed under these conditions. You may speak to your veterinarian about having calming medication prescribed to Fuzz for the long journey. I would also check with your airline provider to ensure that cargo conditions are adequate for animals, temperatures can become very hot under there and may not be safe at all for pets. There are things like zylkene tablets and other sedatives your veterinarian may be able to provide you with. Make sure Fuzz has a good thorough physical exam during his health certification to ensure he is in good shape to travel a long journey. Best of luck and hope this helps.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 28th, 2018

    Hello. We generally do not recommend sedating pets prior to travel. If there is an adverse reaction, you are going to be stuck with not being able to do anything. Make sure Michito is very well accustomed to the carrier by placing him in it for various amounts of times during the day. If you can do this & take him for short rides in cars, buses, Uber, etc., then hopefully he will not be overly stressed by the trip. Make sure you bring plenty of treats he loves, & a few favorite toys if he has any. If he really requires any sedation, only your veterinarian can prescribe them. There are some "natural" calming agents like Solliquin & Zylkene for cats, & if you want to try these, I recommend starting them a week or so before travel. They are not very powerful & will not sedate Michito, but may very well help. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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