Many pet owners heading home or traveling with their cats face the challenge of a cat that won’t stop meowing in the car, along with signs of motion sickness or anxiety.​These issues not only make your cat uncomfortable, but also add stress to the journey.​Below, we’ll explore the causes and symptoms of feline motion sickness, and share practical solutions to help your cat travel comfortably by your side.

Causes and symptoms of motion sickness in cats

Cat motion sickness is mainly caused by an inability to adapt to the car environment, including factors such as engine noise, vehicle vibration, rapidly changing visual stimuli, and the enclosed space — all of which can cause stress and anxiety in cats.​

Common symptoms of motion sickness include:

• Mild: ​restlessness, weakness in the limbs, frequent lip-licking.

• Moderate: ​drooling, runny nose, rapid breathing, trembling.​

• Severe: ​vomiting, loss of bladder or bowel control.​

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to pull over immediately and let your cat rest and calm down before the situation gets worse. ​

How to prevent and reduce motion sickness in cats

1. Before the trip:

   • Get your cat used to the carrier: ​A week before departure, leave the carrier in an area where your cat spends time, so they can explore and get comfortable with it and feel less resistant to going inside. ​

   • Short practice rides: ​Before a long trip, take a few short drives first so your cat can gradually get used to being in the car and the sensation of movement. ​

   • Consult your vet: ​If your cat has a history of severe motion sickness, speak with your vet beforehand about whether sedatives or anti-nausea medication are appropriate. ​

2. On the day of departure:

   • Manage feeding: ​Avoid feeding your cat for 4 to 6 hours before departure to reduce the risk of vomiting from motion sickness. ​

   • Bring comfort items: ​Place a familiar blanket or toy inside the carrier to give your cat a sense of security. ​

   • Use pheromone products: ​Spray cat pheromone spray inside the carrier to help your cat feel calm and relaxed. ​

3. During the drive:

   • Keep the ride smooth: ​Avoid sudden acceleration or hard braking, drive as smoothly as possible, and make sure the car is well ventilated. ​

   • Take regular breaks: ​For longer journeys, plan to stop every 2 hours to give your cat a chance to rest and decompress.

   • Soothe your cat: ​Try playing soft, gentle music, or speak to your cat in a calm, steady voice to help ease their anxiety. ​

How to handle a cat that won’t stop meowing in the car

When a cat meows non-stop in the car, it’s usually a sign of anxiety or distress.​On top of the preparation and calming tips above, you can also try:​

• Block the view: ​Drape a cloth over the carrier to reduce visual stimulation and help your cat feel safer and more enclosed. ​

• Offer treats: ​During the ride, offer your cat their favorite treats at intervals to redirect their attention and create a positive association with car travel.

With these strategies, pet owners can effectively reduce their cat’s anxiety and motion sickness during car trips, making the journey smoother and more enjoyable for everyone.

When cats show signs of anxiety, constant meowing, or motion sickness on longer trips, it’s often due to the unfamiliar environment and the stress of travel. Beyond the calming techniques covered in this article, one of the most reassuring options is to leave your cat in the care of a professional pet sitter. This not only spares your cat the exhaustion of a long journey, but also helps ease their anxiety and motion sickness — so both you and your cat can truly relax and enjoy the holidays or the trip home.

 

Further reading:

[2025 holiday travel — what to do if your pet gets carsick? 5 tips to solve motion sickness in cats and dogs]

Best cat water fountains of 2025 — how to get your cat to drink more water

How to choose a pet camera — beyond features, security matters too!

 

---

Views: 3070