Most animal experts strongly oppose sedating pets before a flight. Tranquilizers tend to raise or lower respiration, occasionally with disastrous effect. Temperature extremes pose a problem for pets traveling by air. Dr. Patricia Olson, director of veterinary affairs for the American Humane Association, urges booking nonstop flights that are least likely to involve temperature extremes and checking with the airline several hours before flight time to make sure weather conditions will permit pet travel. Being a good car passenger, however, does not come naturally to all cats and dogs.
Cats can get skittish in a moving vehicle.
Photograph by Albert Moldvay Canines can be ideal car companions , especially when acclimated to vehicles as puppies. Then graduate to sitting there with the engine running. Slowly build up to taking short rides, and finally long rides. Before you leave on a big trip, it's a good idea to visit the vet to get a clean bill of health for your fellow traveler about ten days before you depart. On the day of travel, give the critter a light meal and a chance to relieve itself before getting into the car.