While anti-anxiety medications can help a cat remain more calm, it’s not recommended to sedate your cat during air travel. Sedation is a risk and could increase the chance of heart and respiratory problems. It shouldn’t be used during transportation except under special circumstances and under the supervision of a veterinarian.
There are several problems with sedation, including unknown and inconclusive results at elevation. Cabins and cargo holds are typically pressurized at 6,000-8,000 feet, which may change how sedatives work on your pet. Sedatives also make balance difficult, and may confuse your cat more than help. They may also not be able to react to movements caused by turbulence.