How Do Pets with Anxiety Cope when Travelling on a Plane?

Travelling with pets can be stressful for both pet owners and their furry companions, especially when it involves flying. Pets, like cats and dogs, can experience significant anxiety during flights. This anxiety can manifest in various ways—restlessness, excessive vocalization, or even physical symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. As a pet parent, it’s important to understand why pets may feel anxious when flying and how to manage their stress effectively. This guide offers tips on how pets with anxiety cope when travelling on a plane, helping you ensure a calmer, more comfortable journey for your beloved pet.

Why Do Pets Feel Anxious on Planes?

Pets experience anxiety during flights due to a variety of factors. The confined space of the cabin or cargo hold, the unfamiliar environment, and the noise of the airplane can all contribute to their stress. For many pets, this is their first time experiencing the chaos and unfamiliarity of air travel, which can be overwhelming. Cats and dogs, especially those with a history of anxiety, may struggle to cope with the sensations and sounds of flying.

• Unfamiliar Sounds & Vibrations: The constant hum of the airplane’s engines and the vibrations that accompany flight can be unsettling for pets. Dogs and cats, with their acute hearing, may find these sounds much louder and more disturbing than humans do.
• Confinement and Lack of Control: For many pets, being in a small, enclosed space without the ability to move freely can be intimidating. A feeling of being trapped, especially when they’re used to more freedom, can cause anxiety to spike.
• Separation from Owners: If pets are traveling in cargo, being separated from their owners can also lead to emotional distress. Pets may feel more secure when they are near their caregivers, so being distanced from them can trigger anxiety.

Understanding these factors can help you prepare your pet and take steps to reduce their stress during the flight.

How Can You Prepare Your Pet for a Flight?

Preparation is key to reducing anxiety and making the flying experience less stressful for both you and your pet. The more familiar and comfortable your pet feels with the flying process, the better they will cope with the experience.

• Pre-Flight Training: Begin by getting your pet used to their travel crate or carrier. Start by placing them inside for short periods of time, and gradually increase the duration as they become more comfortable. You can also place familiar items like a blanket or their favorite toy inside the carrier to provide comfort and security.
• A Visit to the Vet: Before flying, make sure your pet is in good health. A visit to the vet is essential to ensure that they are physically ready for travel. If your pet has severe anxiety, your vet may recommend a mild sedative or anxiety medication to help them relax during the flight.
• Comforting Scents and Familiar Items: Familiar scents, like your pet’s favorite blanket or a pheromone spray (Adaptil for dogs or Feliway for cats), can help calm them during the flight. Pheromone sprays mimic natural calming scents, providing a sense of comfort and security.
• Pre-Flight Exercise: Giving your pet plenty of exercise before the trip can help them burn off excess energy and reduce restlessness during the flight. A good walk or play session can make a big difference in their comfort level.

Taking these steps to prepare your pet will help them feel more at ease and better equipped to handle the stress of flying.

Strategies to Help Anxious Pets During Flight

Once the flight begins, there are several things you can use to ensure your pet remains calm and comfortable throughout the journey.

• Use a Comfortable Carrier: Choose a carrier that meets airline requirements and allows your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably (Like Delomo Bella). A familiar, secure environment can help alleviate anxiety. If your pet is flying in-cabin with you, ensure the carrier fits comfortably under the seat.
• Calming Products: There are a variety of calming products available to help reduce anxiety in pets. Calming collars, sprays, and wipes can all help soothe anxious pets during travel. These products typically contain pheromones or natural ingredients like lavender, which have a calming effect.
• In-Flight Comfort: If your pet is traveling in the cabin with you, try to keep them calm by speaking to them gently, offering treats, or petting them through the carrier (if permitted). Familiar sounds like your voice can help reassure them during the flight.
• Hydration and Snacks: Ensure your pet has access to water throughout the flight, and offer them snacks if appropriate. Staying hydrated can help reduce stress and make your pet feel more comfortable.

Cabin vs. Cargo: Which is Better for Your Pet?

The decision to have your pet travel in the cabin or in the cargo hold depends on the airline's policies, your pet's temperament, and the length of the flight. Both options come with their pros and cons, especially when it comes to anxious pets.

• Cabin Travel: If your pet is small enough to fit under the seat in front of you, flying in the cabin is often the preferred option. This allows you to be close to your pet, which can provide comfort and reassurance during the flight. Being able to hear your voice and see your face can help reduce anxiety.
• Cargo Travel: For bigger pets that need to travel in the cargo hold, the experience can be more stressful. However, many airlines have made improvements to the cargo travel process, providing climate-controlled holds with extra monitoring for pets. If your pet has severe anxiety, you may want to consult with your vet about options to make cargo travel more comfortable for them.

Ultimately, the best option for your anxious pet depends on their specific needs and how they react to each type of travel.

4 Tips for Flying with Anxious Pets

Flying with an anxious pet can be challenging, but with the right preparation and mindset, it’s possible to make the journey as stress-free as possible for both of you.

• Consult Your Vet: If your pet has a history of severe anxiety, talk to your vet about options for medication or sedation to help them stay calm during the flight. Some pets may benefit from mild sedatives, while others may respond better to natural remedies like calming pheromones or herbal supplements.
• Arrive Early: Arriving at the airport early can help reduce stress for both you and your pet. You’ll have time to check in, go through security, and settle your pet into their carrier without feeling rushed.
• Stay Calm Yourself: Pets are highly attuned to their owners' emotions. If you’re calm and relaxed, your pet will be more likely to feel the same. Practice deep breathing or other relaxation techniques before and during the flight to help keep both you and your pet calm.
• Consider a Pet Flight Nanny: For especially anxious pets, you might want to consider hiring a pet flight nanny. These professionals accompany pets on flights to ensure their safety and comfort, offering an added level of care for nervous travelers.

Conclusion:

Travelling with an anxious pet can be challenging, but with careful preparation and a few effective strategies, you can help your pet cope with the stress of flying. By understanding the causes of anxiety, preparing your pet ahead of time, and implementing strategies to keep them calm during the flight, you can ensure a more comfortable and stress-free travel experience for both you and your pet.