Lemonade Pet Insurance Review 2023
6 Vet-Approved Cat Sedatives For Travel
Anyone who's ever traveled with a cat can attest to how exhausting it can be for both human and feline. Between the constant meowing, attempts at escape, shaking, and vomiting, it may seem easier to just leave your cat at home. Sometimes, though, traveling with a cat is unavoidable. One option for improving the experience for all involved is to use cat sedatives for travel.
To cut through the confusion, we've outlined six veterinarian-recommended cat sedatives that are available by prescription, as well as over-the-counter.
Keep in mind that cats are individuals, so some sedatives may not be a good fit for your best friend. Work closely with your veterinarian to find the best solution, and always check first before giving your cat new supplements.
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What Are Cat Sedatives?
© Provided by Great Pet Care Cat staring out of the window Cat sedatives typically refer to prescription medications that help our feline friends feel calmer. They fall into two primary categories: Anxiety reducers (referred to as anxiolytics) and sedatives, which induce sleepiness, says Dr. Gabrielle Fadl, medical director at Bond Vet, based in New York City.
"Some medications have a combination of both effects, while some only cause one or the other," she says. "For severe anxiety, veterinarians will typically choose a medication that has anxiety-relieving effects (or both effects) rather than just something that makes a cat sleepy without relieving anxiety."
Prescription cat sedatives are typically available as tablets; or as capsules that can often be opened and sprinkled on food or water. Some pharmacies can compound pills into chews or liquid form for easier administration.
Non-prescription options like supplements, calming treats, herbal remedies, and pheromone diffusers are also available (and we'll outline a few below). However, over-the-counter products can vary in effectiveness and quality control.
Why You Might Need a Cat Sedative for Travel
© Provided by Great Pet Care Cat walking with owner on a hike Sedatives can benefit cats in a number of travel situations including trips to the veterinarian, car rides, airplane trips, and during hotel stays. Cat sedatives for travel might be a good option if your feline has previously displayed signs of anxiety during car rides, veterinary visits, or other stressful events.
Signs of anxiety can include extreme vocalization, shaking, urinating in the carrier, vomiting, diarrhea, and aggression, says Dr. Katie Pagán, a partner veterinarian with Heart + Paw in Fells Point, Maryland. "If your cat is exhibiting any of these signs you could consider a sedative," she explains. "Sedatives are designed to calm them down and make them sleepy enough where they do not mind traveling."
Other signs that you may want to consider a cat sedative for travel include restlessness, a decrease in appetite, or mood changes, says Dr. Fadl. "Severe anxiety might include attempts to escape or open-mouthed breathing, although the latter can also be associated with underlying heart or lung conditions," she adds.
6 Vet-Approved Cat Sedatives for TravelThe type of cat sedative for travel your veterinarian prescribes will vary. "Specific recommendations depend on the individual cat (their level of anxiety, their age, overall health, and other factors) and what the length and condition of the trip will be like," says Fadl.
If opting for a non-prescription remedy, check with your veterinarian first, since some products can interfere with medications and health conditions.
Best Prescription Sedative for TravelOur Pick: Gabapentin
© Provided by Great Pet Care Gabapentin Capsules Gabapentin is the generic name for one of the most commonly prescribed cat meds for anxiety. It's also used to treat chronic pain and seizures in cats. Though scientists are not completely sure how gabapentin works, studies have shown it to be an effective anxiety reducer in cats-including in community cats who need to be trapped, neutered, and released; as well as cats who experience stress during veterinary examinations.
"This medication will make cats sleepy, but also has some anti-anxiety effects that make cats calmer," says Dr. Susan Jeffrey, an associate veterinarian at Odyssey Veterinary Care in Fitchburg, Wisconsin.
Gabapentin is available in tablet or capsule form, though your pharmacist may be able to compound it into a chew or liquid.
Pros
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Our Pick: Trazodone
© Provided by Great Pet Care Trazodone for cats Trazodone is another medication veterinarians commonly prescribe to sedate a cat for travel. "These drugs can help with anxiety and provide some level of sedation, and they tend to have less side effects than stronger sedatives," says Dr. Fadl.
Trazodone is an antidepressant that reduces anxiety in cats by regulating their level of serotonin – the neurotransmitter that promotes a sense of well-being – in the brain. In one study of 10 cats with a history of displaying anxiety during veterinary examinations, those who received a single dose of trazodone exhibited fewer signs of stress than cats in the placebo group. It comes as a tablet or capsule, but your pharmacy may be able to compound it into a more palatable form.
Pros
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Our Pick: Feliway Classic Cat Calming Pheromone Spray
© Provided by Great Pet Care FELIWAY Classic Cat Calming Pheromone Spray Available as plug-in diffusers, sprays, wipes, and collars, pheromone products are a drug-free remedy that can help cats feel calmer, says Fadl. They work by mimicking naturally occurring pheromones known to soothe cats. The Feliway spray for travel is a great option because it can be used anywhere and you can take it on the go. In one study of 87 cats, those exposed to Feliway spray displayed less anxiety than those in the placebo group.
Pros
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Our Pick: Zylkene
© Provided by Great Pet Care Vetoquinol Zylkene Calming Supplements Zylkene is a name-brand, over-the-counter supplement that Dr. Fadl says is commonly recommended. "However, a pet owner should check with their veterinarian prior to giving any supplements or other substances."
Zylkene contains alpha-casozepine, an ingredient derived from cow milk protein reported to calm cats without sedating them. It comes in capsule form but can be sprinkled on your cat's food or water. For best results, start administering it to your cat 5-7 days before your trip.
Pros
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Our Pick: The Anxious Pet Organic Hemp Oil for Cats
© Provided by Great Pet Care Anxious Pet Organic Hemp Oil for Cats Veterinarians say cannabidiol (CBD) shows potential in treating stress and other ailments in cats. The evidence at this point though, especially when it comes to cats, is largely anecdotal and based on human medicine.
We like the CBD Hemp Oil from The Anxious Pet. This 400mg bottle is great for feline parents who want to give CBD a try. It's veterinarian-formulated and third-party laboratory tested for safety and efficacy. Plus, the brand offers a 60-day money-back guarantee.
Pros
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Our Pick: VetriScience Composure Chicken Liver Flavored Soft Chews Calming Supplement
© Provided by Great Pet Care VETRISCIENCE Composure Calming Treats for Cats While calming cat treats may not help cats who suffer from severe anxiety during travel, they may be effective enough to take the edge off for felines who get a bit worked up. These treats from VetriScience contain L-theanine to help reduce a cat's stress. Though additional research on the use of L-theanine in cats is needed, there is evidence that it can significantly reduce signs of stress, most notably inappropriate elimination. These treats may start reducing anxiety in as little as 20-30 minutes, making them a great option for traveling.
Pros
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© Provided by Great Pet Care Sweet cat looking to owner How to administer a sedative to your cat depends on the sedative. Gabapentin, for example, most commonly comes in capsule form, says Dr. Pagán. "Some cats will take it wrapped up in a pill pocket or owners can also break it open and sprinkle it into wet food. Compounding pharmacies are great as well – they can make it into any formulation such as liquid, quick dissolve tablet, or a flavored treat."
If pill pockets don't work, consider a cat piller, offers Dr. Fadl. It's a "small plastic stick designed to hold and administer a pill to a cat without you having to put your fingers in their mouth." If you're unsure of how to administer liquid medication to your cat, our guide has you covered.
When to Administer Travel Sedation for CatsIt varies, but "most are required before you start traveling because it's more effective to prevent anxiety rather than trying to calm a cat after they are already stressed," says Dr. Fadl. "Some are given a couple of hours or so before you travel, and some have the biggest benefit if started the night before."
Non-prescription cat sedatives for travel usually require more time to take effect.
Test the sedative at least a few days before your trip to ensure it's effective, says Dr. Fadl. "Don't wait until the last minute."
And if you're having difficulty administering a pill to your cat, Dr. Fadl recommends asking your veterinarian to prescribe a medication that works for a longer duration so you don't have to give it as often.
Should You Give Cats Sedatives for Plane Travel?Sedatives are not recommended for plane travel, Dr. Fadl says, "Especially if a pet can't be directly monitored, since some medications affect the pet's ability to regulate their body temperature."
If you are familiar with how your pet responds to a specific medication and can carry your cat onto the flight with you, you may discuss with your veterinarian if you can use the medication for plane travel.
Tips to Calm a Cat During Car Travel
© Provided by Great Pet Care Cat in a carrier Cats are creatures of habit, so leaving a familiar home can cause anxiety. Yet, many cats do well by car once the journey has begun, says Dr. Fadl. "They might vocalize (meow) for a while, but then settle down and sleep."
Dr. Fadl says allowing a cat to gradually become accustomed to the car and carrier can reduce anxiety.
"Start by placing the carrier out in the home a few weeks early. If your cat explores, sleeps, or plays in the carrier, offer them attention and treats. Use Feliway products in the carrier to help your cat understand it's a safe place. Once your cat starts to get used to the carrier, gradually add additional steps, such as closing the carrier door for a minute, then carrying your cat to the car and back, then turning on the car engine, then driving around the block with your cat."
Cat Sedatives FAQs
© Provided by Great Pet Care Cat stepping out of a car Are cat sedatives safe? Provided they're given as directed, prescription sedatives are generally considered safe for cats, says Dr. Fadl. "However, there are potential risks with any drugs and some situations in which sedation might not be recommended. For example, cats with underlying health conditions may process medications differently than a healthy cat and experience more side effects." Plane travel is generally not advised unless you can monitor your cat. Ask your veterinarian for guidance.
Since non-prescription remedies vary in effectiveness and quality and can interact with other medications or conditions, discuss them first with your veterinarian.
Are there any side effects to cat sedatives?Side effects are possible with any drug, says Dr. Fadl. "The most common side effects seen with sedatives are probably excessive sedation and (much less commonly) an abnormal response in which a cat becomes agitated rather than relaxed."
Make sure to test any sedative prior to traveling to ensure there are no adverse side effects.
Can kittens have sedatives?Veterinarians rarely prescribe sedatives for kittens. "It's best to avoid this if possible, especially since kittenhood is a good time to train your pet to get used to their carrier and car rides and potentially prevent a lifetime of travel anxiety," says Dr. Fadl. However, if needed, your vet can discuss the pros and cons of sedating very young cats with you.
The post 6 Vet-Approved Cat Sedatives for Travel appeared first on Great Pet Care.
Laughter As Dog With 'FOMO' Joins Cats For Breakfast On Counter
If you have a pet, you'll be used to the odd bit of misbehavior—but one dog's actions the moment his owner turned his back has left the internet in stitches.
The moment Roscoe the dog jumped onto the kitchen counter was captured on camera and has since been viewed over 1.6 million times on TikTok.
"Can't turn my back for 5 seconds," joked Tiktoker raziwl_lw in the caption of the video.
A file photo of a crossbreed dog looking for food on a counter. In a TikTok clip, Roscoe the dog could not resist jumping on the counter after seeing two cats enjoying their food. Elayne Massaini/Getty ImagesWith two cats eating their food up high, Roscoe the dog quickly gathered interest and made his move to join them, leaping onto the kitchen counter.
Zoe Willingham, a dog behaviorist based in Suffolk, U.K, told Newsweek that even well-trained dogs will sometimes misbehave: "A trained dog will generally do what they have been trained to do because they have a big reward history with training rather than misbehave—but if the reward is greater to misbehave they may chose that."
In this case, Roscoe clearly decided that the "don't jump on the counter" rule clearly paled in comparison to the treat of cat food. And TikTok users didn't blame him.
"Roscoe suffers from FOMO," joked one commenter referencing the "fear of missing out" the canine could be feeling watching the cats eat.
Another joked: "He's like ohh this is what we're doing, okay guys just gimmie a sec."
"He was so graceful about it," said another reply.
When it comes to food, it is not unfamiliar to see dogs struggle to control themselves, from stealing chicken nuggets to getting hold of a breakfast treat.
When it comes to helping your dog control its impulses around food, Willingham explained there are things you can do.
"Generally to have a harmonious home it's a good idea to train your dog to have good impulse control and not scavenge. This can even be lifesaving if you dropped something poisonous to the dog," she explained.
Training your dog to only eat food when given permission can help prevent any food theft and stop your pup from eating something potentially harmful. Alongside this, Willingham recommended a few other helpful dog training essentials.
"A settle behavior is always a useful one as it allows you to ask your dog to go and lay down, and you can remove them from situations they may find stressful or where you need them to behave—like when you are eating a meal," said the trainer who has 23 dogs of her own.
Finally, she also recommended training your dog positive social greetings. "A good social greeting is another vital behavior to train at home to ensure your dog is friendly but not a nuisance to guests," said Willingham. "There's nothing worse than a guest arriving and dogs jumping up at them or frightening them."
Newsweek has reached out to raziwl_lw for comment.
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.Com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
The 7 Most Effective Over-the-counter Sleep Aids
© Provided by Mic According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, approximately 70 million people experience sleep disorders each year. Whether you deal with occasional sleeplessness due to stress or travel, sleep aids can help promote restfulness, so you can function at your best. The most effective over-the-counter sleep aids include antihistamine ingredients like diphenhydramine, herbs like valerian root, or hormones like melatonin.
The ExpertsAbhinav Singh, MD, Fellow Member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (FAASM), is a sleep medicine specialist and the medical director of the Indiana Sleep Center. He also provides professional insight as a medical review expert for Sleep Foundation.
Ryan Fiorenzi is a Certified Sleep Science Coach (CSSC) and the founder of Start Sleeping, a site that provides insight and advice on sleep health and hygiene.
What is the best over-the-counter sleep aid?The best over-the-counter sleep aid will have ingredients that work well for your specific needs — and there are a few things to consider in this aspect. Some sleep aids are formulated with herbs while others use hormones or antihistamines to trigger a physiological response in the body that encourages relaxation and sleep. Abhinav Singh, MD, FAASM, notes that "most of these [ingredients] have not been studied in large trials," and that "efficacy is variable." That being said, Dr. Singh notes that when used intermittently, they can provide some helpful effects.
With that in mind, the most common over-the-counter sleep aids contain one or more of the following ingredients:
Melatonin"Melatonin is the most popular sleep aid for a reason — your pineal gland produces it every night in order for you to sleep when it gets cooler and darker," says Certified Sleep Science Coach Ryan Fiorenzi. Just as when it's released naturally, the best melatonin supplements may help stimulate drowsiness and sleep, making it a great option if you're dealing with jet lag or working overnight shifts. Just keep in mind that bright overhead lights and digital screens can neutralize its effects. It should also be noted that melatonin's effect decreases the longer you take it, so it's best for short-term relief. Side effects tend to be minimal but may include dizziness, nausea, headaches, and confusion.
MagnesiumAnother potentially helpful sleep aid? Magnesium. "Low levels of magnesium have been linked to insomnia and sleep disturbances, and healthy magnesium levels often lead to deep, restful, and uninterrupted sleep." Fiorenzi explains. "Magnesium also maintains healthy levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in sleep, as low levels of GABA make it hard to relax and sleep." Another great benefit? Magnesium may help regulate muscle contractions, helping them to relax while reducing cramps and spasming. Just one downside: This mineral may cause gastrointestinal upset when taken in large doses.
ValerianDerived from the valerian root, this herbal supplement is thought to have a calming, stress-reducing effect on the body that can help people fall asleep faster and improve sleep quality and duration. Fiorenzi notes it's one of the "most popular" sleep supplements and side effects tend to be mild but may include dizziness. Keep in mind, though, it has a strong, earthy odor, so it may not be the best over-the-counter sleep aid for anyone sensitive to smell.
AntihistaminesYou can purchase over-the-counter sleep aids containing two different types of antihistamines, both of which have sedative effects that aid with sleep. Both diphenhydramine (which is found in Benadryl) and doxylamine succinate (found in medications like Unisom) are used to treat allergies and have side effects that cause drowsiness. While antihistamine-style sleep aids can be quite effective, Dr. Singh says that ingredients like diphenhydramine should be used with caution as side effects may include a hangover effect, dry mouth, and increased fall risk for some people.
5-HTPFiorenzi says, "5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is created in the body from tryptophan, which is then converted to serotonin, which helps regulate mood and behavior and may have a positive impact on sleep, appetite, mood, anxiety, and pain sensation." In other words, this sleep aid does more than just promote drowsiness. However, 5-HTP isn't a quick fix — it may take six to 12 weeks before you see results. It's also important to keep in mind that it shouldn't be mixed with certain antidepressants or medications used for Parkinson's disease, nor should anyone with Down syndrome use it. Side effects may include digestive issues like nausea and heartburn.
L-theanineL-theanine is an amino acid found in green tea that "may slow brain activity, promote positive feelings, and reduce alertness and anxiety," says Fiorenzi. It's considered to be very tolerable and there are no confirmed direct side effects.
Some words of cautionIt's always a good idea to check in with your doctor before adding a medication or supplement to your regimen. This is especially important if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, have any other co-occurring medical conditions, or are having surgery in the near future. It's also crucial to note that many of these medications and supplements can cause a range of side effects, including next-day grogginess, so it's advisable to proceed with caution, especially if you're planning to drive or operate heavy machinery. Last but not least, active ingredients that cause sleepiness may interact with other medications and supplements (as well as alcohol), so it's worth speaking with a medical professional to ensure optimal safety and effectiveness.
With that said, the most effective over-the-counter sleep aids come in a range of forms, from dissolving tablets to liquid capsules to chewable gummies, so you can find an option that works best for you — without having to deal with a prescription.
Shop the most effective over-the-counter sleep aidsIn a hurry? These are the most effective over-the-counter sleep aids:
Natrol 1-Milligram Melatonin Fast-Dissolve Tablets (200 Count)
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© Provided by Mic Boasting a 4.7-star overall rating after 17,000 reviews, Natrol's strawberry-flavored melatonin tablets contain 1 milligram of melatonin each and dissolve in the mouth in a quick 10 seconds, so you can take them without water if you choose. The vegan tablets are free of many common allergens (aside from wheat and soy) and multiple reviewers reported they "taste great." Since melatonin helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle, it may be an especially good pick if you're dealing with jet lag or working overnight shifts.
One reviewer wrote: "I have VERY bad insomnia, and for almost my entire life I can recall having an extremely difficult time going to sleep at night. This helps me go to bed, and I always wake up the next day feeling refreshed, which never happened before. Also, it tastes good."
Amount per serving: 1 mg melatoninForm: dissolving tabletsServings per container: 200
2. The magnesium powder supplementNatural Vitality Calm Magnesium Supplement (16 Oz.)
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© Provided by Mic For sleep that's deep, restful, and — importantly — uninterrupted, Fiorenzi recommends magnesium. Not to mention, it may be a good choice for those who are kept awake by muscle cramping or spasms. Boasting a 4.6-star overall rating after 8,500 reviews, this powdered magnesium supplement can be added to 2 to 3 ounces of water for a fizzy nighttime drink. You can choose from flavors like orange, raspberry-lemon, and watermelon, or stick with an unflavored option. Vegan and gluten-free, the formula features magnesium carbonate that's sourced from the Pacific Ocean (and turns to magnesium citrate when mixed with water). Just note that those with sensitive stomachs may experience gastrointestinal upset.
One reviewer wrote: "I love this stuff, going to buy more. Puts me to sleep every night! I used to have insomnia, but now I get a lot more sleep and feel so much better!"
Amount per serving: 350 mg magnesiumForm: powderServings per container: 113
3. The valerian root capsulesNOW Supplements Valerian Root 500 mg (250 Count)
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© Provided by Mic A serving of NOW's valerian root supplement contains 500 milligrams of the herb, which is known to help induce relaxation, decrease feelings of stress, and encourage rest. The vegan capsules are free of many common allergens (like gluten, eggs, and tree nuts), and valerian generally has few if any side effects. Keep in mind that several reviewers noted the capsules' potent smell — but many credit them with helping them sleep when nothing else worked.
One reviewer wrote: "Nothing in the world can make valerian taste good, but this item has figured out how to minimize the aftertaste better than other brands I've used. The potency of two capsules is enough to give me a quality sleep. I'd recommend it."
Amount per serving: 500 mg valerian rootForm: capsulesServings per container: 125
4. The diphenhydramine liquid capsulesZzzQuil Nighttime Sleep Aid LiquiCaps (72 Count)
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© Provided by Mic With 25 milligrams of diphenhydramine hydrochloride (HCl) in each liquid capsule (with a recommended total dose of 50 milligrams), ZzzQuil sleep aid pills are a fast-acting way to promote sleepiness in as little as 20 minutes — similar to the same benefits you'd get with NyQuil, but without active ingredients that treat cough and cold symptoms. Though it's not habit-forming, it's recommended to take ZzzQuil for occasional sleeplessness rather than daily, and it may cause more pronounced side effects than herbal supplements.
One reviewer wrote: "The product is easy to swallow because of the coating. Sleep comes very quickly without any interruption and lasts until I get up. I have tried several OTC over the years, this is the first one that works."
Amount per serving: 50 mg diphenhydramine hydrochlorideForm: liquid-filled capsulesServings per container: 36
5. The doxylamine tabletsUnisom SleepTabs, Doxylamine Succinate (32 Count)
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© Provided by Mic Unisom's sleep aid pills contain 25 milligrams of doxylamine succinate and were shown to help people fall asleep 33% faster when compared to a placebo in a clinical study. The tablets should be taken 30 minutes before bed, and they go to work quickly to help you fall and stay asleep. Due to their effectiveness, some reviewers shared that they only need a half of a tablet for a good night's sleep. Like ZzzQuil, Unisom is not intended for daily use, and should only be taken for occasional sleeplessness.
One reviewer wrote: "I started taking this when I was having trouble falling asleep due to outside noise. I don't react well to anything with a sleep aid in it usually, but I take half a tab (they are ready and easy to split) half an hour before bed and don't feel 'out of it' the next morning."
Amount per serving: 25 mg doxylamine succinateForm: tabletsServings per container: 32
6. The 5-HTP capsulesDr. Emil Nutrition 200 MG 5-HTP Plus Formula (60 Count)
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© Provided by Mic The main ingredient in this sleep aid from Dr. Emil is 5-HTP, which helps promote serotonin production and reduce stress. Other effective ingredients include S-Adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe), tryptophan, and vitamin B6, which work together to support lower stress levels. The non-GMO, vegan, and gluten-free capsules also support brain function and mood, and many reviewers noted falling and staying sleeping better as a result. This isn't a quick-fix option though — according to Fiorenzi, it may take six to 12 weeks to see results. And keep in mind you'll want to avoid this pick if you're on certain antidepressants or medications for Parkinson's disease.
One reviewer wrote: "I normally wake up several times a night and have trouble getting back to sleep. From the second night I took this product, I was sleeping through the ENTIRE night. Not only did I not wake up a bunch, but I also woke to my alarm in the morning feeling well rested. No grogginess or wanting to just go back to bed after getting the kids off to school."
Dosage: 200 mg 5-HTP, 20 mg SAMe, 20 mg tryptophan, 10 mg vitamin B12Form: capsulesServings per container: 30
7. The botanical gummiesOLLY Sleep Gummies (60 Count)
Amazon
© Provided by Mic Each of Olly's blackberry gummies are formulated with 1.5 milligram of melatonin, along with L-theanine for calmness, plus a blend of chamomile, passion flower, and lemon balm botanicals to soothe and relax the body and promote sleep. The gluten-free gummies are made without artificial colors and flavors, and reviewers reported they taste "delicious." They are packaged in a soft pouch, which is shipped cold to prevent melting in transit.
One reviewer wrote: "When I have had a few nights of poor sleep I chew one of these 30 minutes before bed and they do seem to relax me and make me tired. My dreams are always weird so [there is] no effect there. I do not use these on a regular basis as I feel that is not an appropriate thing to do with melatonin. But for occasional use I find them a solid choice when I need to sleep."
Amount per serving: 3 mg melatonin, 100 mg L-theanineForm: gummiesServings per container: 30
Experts:
Dr. Abhinav Singh, Sleep Medicine Specialist and Medical Director of the Indiana Sleep Center. Https://indianasleepcenter.Com/physicians/abhinav-singh/
Ryan Fiorenzi, Certified Sleep Science Coach and founder of Start Sleeping. Https://startsleeping.Org/about/
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