🚗 Calming Car Ride Anxiety in Dogs and Cats in 2025: A Vet's Guide to Stress-Free Travel 🐶🐱

By Dr Duncan Houston BVSc, Ask A Vet Blog
Published: July 7, 2025

Many pet parents love bringing their furry companions along for errands, adventures, and family vacations. But for some pets, car rides can be a source of overwhelming anxiety. Whether you're traveling to the vet or heading out on a road trip, managing your dog or cat's car-related stress is essential for their comfort and safety 🚘💙

🌀 Step 1: Rule Out Motion Sickness

Does your dog drool, lick their lips, pant excessively, or vomit during or after car rides? These could be signs of motion sickness—which often mimics anxiety.

Cerenia®, an FDA-approved anti-nausea medication for dogs, is a great first step. If the anxiety resolves after use, motion sickness was likely the root cause.

🌿 Step 2: Try Pheromones & Aromatherapy

Dog- and cat-specific pheromone products like Adaptil® and Feliway® release calming chemical cues. Spray on car seats, carriers, or floor mats (not directly on your pet) 10 minutes before the ride begins.

Aromatherapy scents like lavender, chamomile, and sandalwood also help. Research shows lavender in particular can reduce agitation and promote resting behaviors during rides 🌸🧘‍♂️

🕶️ Step 3: Block Visual Overload

Overstimulation from moving cars, people, and changing scenery can fuel anxiety. Try:

• Window shades to limit outside views
• Thundercaps—soft mesh caps that reduce visual stress but still allow vision

🔒 Step 4: Use Carriers or Crash-Tested Harnesses

Some pets feel safest in a familiar, enclosed space. Crates and carriers can offer that comfort, especially when covered with a light blanket 🧺

For dogs, use seatbelt-compatible harnesses—ideally those crash-tested by the Center for Pet Safety. These provide protection during sudden stops and offer a predictable, secure space within the car.

🧠 Step 5: Train for Calm Behavior

Behavior modification techniques can help your pet form positive associations with the car. Some helpful tools include:

• Mat training: Teach your dog to relax on a mat using treats and praise
• Treat&Train®: A remote-controlled dispenser that helps build relaxed behavior in small steps

🐾 Start with short, low-stress car sessions—like sitting in the driveway with treats—then gradually build up to longer rides.

💊 Step 6: Discuss Medication with Your Vet

If your pet’s anxiety is intense or progress is slow, your veterinarian can prescribe behavioral medications such as:

• Trazodone (for dogs)
• Gabapentin (for both cats and dogs)
• Clonidine or Dexmedetomidine (Sileo®)

These medications are especially useful when combined with training. Some are situational (given only before travel), while others may be prescribed for more consistent use 🧴💡

📦 Don’t Forget the Essentials

Always bring these items for longer trips:

• 🐾 Familiar blanket or toy
• 🥤 Water & portable bowl
• 🚗 Calming spray or wipes
• 🧻 Cleaning supplies (just in case!)

🛣️ Final Thoughts: Travel Without Trauma

Car anxiety doesn’t have to limit your pet’s quality of life. With the right tools and gradual exposure, even the most nervous traveler can become a calm co-pilot.

Need help with training or medication options? Connect with a licensed vet through the Ask A Vet app for personalized guidance 💬🐶🐱

Safe travels from Dr Duncan Houston and the Ask A Vet team! 🚙✨