Feb. 06, 2026
As the Spring Festival approaches, many pet owners choose to take their feline friends back to their hometowns, but long-distance transport often causes pets to suffer from stress reactions. Veterinarians remind that scientific preparation, stress relief and reasonable nutrition supplement are the keys to ensuring a safe and smooth trip for pets.
Common stress reactions in pets during transport include lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive meowing or hiding. These symptoms are usually caused by unfamiliar environments, jolting and noise. Kittens, senior cats and shy cats are more prone to stress and need extra care.
Prepare a familiar transport carrier with soft blankets or toys that have the pet’s scent to create a sense of security. Avoid overfeeding 2-3 hours before departure to prevent motion sickness. For long trips over 6 hours, arrange regular rest stops to let pets stretch properly (keep them on a leash outdoors).
Supplement appropriate nutrients to help pets relieve stress: add probiotics to their diet 3 days before departure to protect the digestive system; choose stress-relief nutritional pastes rich in L-theanine to soothe their emotions. Avoid feeding new foods during the trip to prevent gastrointestinal discomfort. Ensure clean drinking water is available at all times.
If pets show persistent severe stress symptoms such as continuous vomiting or refusal to eat, stop the trip and consult a nearby vet promptly to avoid endangering their health.
