Puking Pup? - Motion Sickness in Pets

Bridget Riding Shotgun. Carsick Free!

As it heats up around the south and school lets out, chances are you will be headed outside and on the road with your pet! However, if your pet gets car sick, that can seriously put a damper on summer vacations. Motion sickness is also one of the reasons some pets don’t make it to the vet as often as they should. Simply put, owners just do not want to clean that up. So, here is a bit of information to help reduce the stress and actual vomiting involved in your pet’s carsickness.

Motion sickness is usually noticed in pets once they actually vomit in the car. Naturally, that will bring about a response from most owners. Often, the early signs of carsickness can be missed. They are similar to signs of nausea for any reason and include drooling, panting, licking of the lips and even yawning. If you notice you pet with any of these signs after a short car ride, chances are these symptoms could progress and lead to vomiting on a longer road trip.

Many pets often have anxiety associated with car rides. This can lead to nausea and vomiting as well. With cats, the anxiety is usually triggered as soon as the carrier comes out. Getting your cat used to the carrier is very helpful when it comes to car rides. We recommend leaving the carrier out in a well-used room, like the living room or kitchen, so your cat can explore it without any risk of being locked in and taken to the scary vet’s office. You can make your cat even more comfortable by occasionally putting a treat or two in the carrier as a surprise reward.

If your pet has some anxiety associated with a car ride, there are a few things you can do to make it easier on them. Start off with simply bringing your pet near and/or in the car without going anywhere. They can then get used to the smell and presence of the vehicle. Next up, progress to short car rides either around the block or down the street to the pick up the kids from school. Once you return, reward your pet for surviving with a treat or two.  After you master the car ride, make sure your pet is comfortable during the car ride. Remember, if you are hot while driving your car, your furry friend definitely is!

The above suggestions can make major strides in correcting motion sickness in pets. Sometimes, however, they are just not enough. There are several different medications that can be used for motion sickness. Cerenia is an antiemetic that is used often to treat and prevent motion sickness. If your pet’s carsickness is more anxiety driven, anti-anxiety medications should be considered. There are a multitude of options that are readily available. Please let us know next time you are in the office with your pet, and we can discuss which medication is most appropriate for your situation.

Now after educating yourself, I hope you can take that lake or beach trip this summer with Fido in tow, and no messes to clean up. If you have any questions, please comment below or give our office a call!