Cat sedative.

Newsgroups: alt.folklore.herbs
Subject: Cat Sedative
From: aq898.FreeNet.Carleton.CA (Eddie Paul)
Date: Tue, 16 May 1995 14:25:58 GMT

We are moving this summer, and need to keep our cat in a relaxed state for the 2 hour drive from Ottawa to Montreal. Rather than give her a doze of pills, would anyone be aware of a herbal sedative that would keep our Holstein cat from getting too stressed in her carrying case?

From: bo869.FreeNet.Carleton.CA (Carlene Paquette)

> We are moving this summer, and need to keep our cat in a relaxed state for the 2 hour drive from Ottawa to Montreal.

Personally our cat doesn't seem to mind the carrier. Once she figures out that she can't break out she settles down to wait until we let her out (London to Ottawa is a long drive and she didn't make a peep in complaint). You could try giving your cat catnip a while before you leave. I've noticed our cat gets really hyper from it - for about an hour and then she crashes and snoozes after that. If your cat behaves similarly this may be the answer you're looking for. You could also try acclimatizing the cat to the carrier. Take it on short trips in the carrier, gradually making them longer and reward it for good behaviour. Finally, make sure that the cat has food and water in the carrier on the trip - this should help improve it's mood.

Good luck and happy travelling
Carlene

From: oatstraw.twain.oit.umass.edu (ROBIN F HOWARD)

: We are moving this summer, and need to keep our cat in a relaxed state for the 2 hour drive

I'd also try Rescue Remedy, either in water, or rubbed behind her ears. Works amazingly well on animals.

From: placbv.bremner.uct.ac.za

>We are moving this summer, and need to keep our cat in a relaxed state for the 2 hour drive

I would advise that whatever you use, you do a trial run (drive) first. My cat hated being sedated and seemed to panic more as he was "out of control". I have since taken him on long drives, one over 2 hours, and after a bit he settled down just fine. He prefered to sit at the back window where he could watch the world go by, or in my lap. There is a risk of loss of bladder control so it may be safer to keep her in her case or else you could ask your vet to show you how to induce a piddle before getting into the car. We've only ever had one "accident" but with a scent like that, one is more than enough. Either way, happy moving!