Motion Sickness in Dogs and Cats: Causes, Signs and Solutions

If your dog drools a puddle every time you drive to the park, or your cat yowls and vomits on the way to the vet, you're not alone. Motion sickness is common, especially in puppies and kittens.

What causes it?

Motion sickness happens when the balance system in the inner ear and what the eyes see don't match. Young animals are more prone because the inner ear structures are still developing, and many outgrow it. Anxiety makes it worse, and pets who've had bad car experiences may start feeling sick before the car even moves.

Signs to look for

• Drooling
• Lip licking and swallowing
• Yawning
• Whining or restlessness
• Inactivity or hunching
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea in some pets

Before the trip

• Practice drives. Start with short trips that end somewhere fun, and build up. This helps both anxiety-related and motion-related nausea.
• Food timing. A light meal a few hours before departure, rather than a full stomach or a completely empty one, is often recommended. Ask your vet what's best for your pet.
• Talk to your vet about medication. There are veterinary anti-nausea medications for motion sickness. Your vet can decide whether one is right, and whether something for anxiety might also help. Don't use human medications without veterinary advice.
• Crate facing forward can help some dogs, since they see less movement out of side windows.

In the vehicle

• Secure the crate so it doesn't slide.
• Good ventilation and a slightly cool temperature.
• Smooth driving, with gentle braking and cornering.
• Limit the view for some pets by partly covering the crate.
• Regular breaks for dogs to walk around.
• Absorbent bedding, with spares for changes.

After vomiting

Clean up promptly, change bedding and offer small sips of water. Hold off on food for a short while, then offer a small amount. Repeated vomiting, lethargy or signs of dehydration need a vet.

Cats

Cats often vomit once early in the trip, then settle. Covering the carrier, keeping it level and making sure it's well-ventilated helps. A familiar blanket goes a long way.

Tell your transporter

Let your transporter know if your pet gets carsick, and send any vet-prescribed medication with clear instructions. At 4Paws Movers, we'll bring extra bedding, plan more stops and adjust the schedule. Read about what happens on a transport trip or request a quote.