Traveling with cats can be a challenge — many felines get anxious during car rides, flights, or even short trips to the vet. From unfamiliar environments to loud noises and motion sickness, there are plenty of stressors that can make travel overwhelming for your cat. CBD for cats might be a helpful tool to promote calmness and relaxation, making trips smoother for both you and your pet.

How to Use CBD While Traveling

If you’re considering using CBD for cat travel, timing and method of administration are key. Introducing it effectively can make or break its effectiveness. 

Give your cat CBD before you start the trip. We recommended giving CBD at least 30–60 minutes before departure to allow it to take effect. If you use a CBD treat or capsule, you can expect a slower onset of effects. In this case, we always recommend giving your cat the treat or capsule at least an hour before the trip begins. 

We mentioned treats and capsules, but there are many CBD products to choose from that will support a kitty during travel. CBD oil is our #1 pick when it comes to delivery methods. It can be placed directly in your cat’s mouth, mixed with food, or added to a treat. When given directly in the mouth, it has a much quicker onset time than treats or capsules. Plus, many cats can be picky eaters, and oil is the quickest and easiest way to administer it to most cats.  However, if CBD treats make more sense to fit into your cat’s day, then they are a great option as well. 

Following a dosage guide gives you a good idea of where to start administering a safe dosage to your kitty. While you may desire some calming effects, you may not want your cat to be overly lethargic. While CBD is safe, it may cause mild side effects in higher dosages. We recommend starting with a low dose and observing your cat’s response. If necessary, gradually adjust the amount under veterinary guidance.

Benefits of CBD for Cat Travel

Traveling can be stressful for cats, but CBD may help make the experience more comfortable in several ways. By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, CBD promotes relaxation, making it easier for cats to cope with unfamiliar surroundings, loud noises, and long trips. Some cats also experience motion sickness, leading to nausea, dizziness, or discomfort during car or plane rides. 

CBD’s potential anti-nausea properties may help ease these symptoms, allowing for a smoother journey [1]. Beyond travel, CBD supports overall well-being by promoting a sense of calm and balance, which can be especially beneficial in new or unpredictable environments. Whether your cat struggles with travel-related stress or general unease, CBD may offer a natural way to keep them feeling more relaxed and at ease on the go.

How Much CBD to Use to Calm Your Cat

The right dosage depends on factors like your cat’s weight, sensitivity, and the CBD concentration of the product. A general guideline is:

• Small cats (under 10 lbs): Start with 1–2 mg of CBD

• Medium cats (10–15 lbs): 2–4 mg of CBD

• Large cats (over 15 lbs): 4–6 mg of CBD

Always consult your veterinarian before introducing CBD, especially if your cat has existing health conditions or is on medication.

Best CBD Product Types for Traveling

When choosing a CBD product for travel, consider these options:

• CBD Oil/Tinctures – Easy to adjust dosage and can be mixed with food or administered directly. Our CBD Oil for Cats is a broad spectrum formula (THC-free) and offers 8.3 mg of CBD per ml dose (but you can scale this drop by drop). Plus, it has a fishy flavor, so your cat will look forward to taking the oil. 

• CBD Treats – Convenient, pre-measured, and easy to pack. Plus, most cat owners already have treats included in their cat’s daily routine, so your cat will be none the wiser about a supplement being added to their day.

• CBD Soft Chews – A great alternative for cats who prefer a softer texture over crunchy treats. These can be an excellent option for senior cats with more sensitive teeth. 

• CBD Sprays – Can be applied to food or sprayed directly into your cat’s mouth for quick absorption. CBD sprays are less popular on the market due to the challenge of ensuring a specific dosage through this method, so be careful to buy a high-quality, safety-tested spray if you do go this route. 

CBD For Cats On the Go

CBD for cats while traveling could be a helpful way to ease stress and motion sickness. However, every cat reacts differently, so it’s important to test CBD at home before a big trip and adjust the dosage as needed. If you’re planning a journey with your feline friend, CBD might be worth considering for a smoother, more relaxed experience.

References:

1. Rock, E. M., Limebeer, C. L., Pertwee, R. G., Mechoulam, R., & Parker, L. A. (2021). Therapeutic potential of cannabidiol, cannabidiolic acid, and cannabidiolic acid methyl ester as treatments for nausea and vomiting. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 6(4), 266-274.