Question:
I have a 6-year-old social, playful orange male cat named Tiger. Our problem is that he gets car sickness. I can't even get the car down the driveway without him vomiting and defecating.I've tried no food for 12 hours before getting into the car. On my vet's advice, I've given him Dramamine one hour before getting into the car. I even made him some ginger tea. So far, nothing works.The strange thing is that when I first got him about three years ago, he had no problems traveling in the car. And then, all of a sudden, this problem started.Tiger is very outgoing, not fearful, has a very good appetite and is otherwise healthy (with the exception of occasional wax buildup in the ears). The vet suggested that the act of getting into the car might be producing the anxiety.We don't know what to do. I hope you have some suggestions for us.
D.F.P., Chelsea, NY Jul 01, 2007
Answer:
Since your cat shows signs of fear or anxiety, desensitization may help.This entails sitting in the stationary car for five to 10 minutes, four or five times a day, over a five- to seven-day period, followed by a similar regimen with the engine running.Your veterinarian could prescribe a low dose of Xanax to be used with this desensitization regimen if it does not prove effective on the first round.Dogs suffering from car sickness often show much relief and no more vomiting if given a small piece of ginger 15 to 20 minutes before going for a ride. Raw or sugar-crystallized ginger can be effective. Putting tiny pieces in a couple of gelatin capsules and popping them down your cat's throat may do wonders. Spraying a mist of lavender-oil water inside the car may also help.
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