Updated on | by   Critter Nets - Blogs

Natural Remedies to Help Pets Cope with Moving or Travel Anxiety

Introduction

Moving to a new home or traveling can be stressful for pets, causing restlessness, whining, shaking, excessive barking, or hiding.

  • Changes in environment, unfamiliar sounds, and disrupted routines trigger anxiety in dogs and cats.
  • Natural remediescan help calm your pet without sedatives or harsh medications.

In this guide, we’ll explore gentle, effective solutionsto ease your pet’s moving or travel anxietynaturally.


1. Why Do Pets Experience Anxiety When Moving or Traveling

Change in environment– New smells, spaces, and sounds can be overwhelming.
Separation stress– Leaving behind familiar places and routines can cause distress.
Motion sickness– Some pets experience nausea during car rides or flights.
Loud noises & overstimulation– Traffic sounds, honking, and airports can be unsettling.

Symptoms of Travel Anxiety:
Excessive panting, drooling, or whining
Pacing, trembling, or refusing to get into the car/carrier
Vomiting or diarrhea
Hiding or clinging to their owner


2. Best Natural Remedies to Calm Pets During Travel or Moving

1. CBD Oil for Calming Effects

CBD oilinteracts with the endocannabinoid systemto reduce stress.
Helps pets stay relaxed without drowsiness.
Best for separation anxiety, car rides, and air travel.

Essentials for Your Newly Adopted Pet

Welcoming a shelter pet into your life is a beautiful journey. Here are some handpicked items to help your new friend feel safe, loved, and right at home:

How to Use:
Give CBD drops 30-60 minutesbefore travel.
Choose a THC-free, pet-safeCBD oil.

Start with a low doseand consult a vet if needed.


2. Herbal Remedies: Chamomile & Valerian Root

Chamomile soothes nerves and relaxes muscles.
Valerian root acts as a natural sedativefor anxious pets.

How to Use:
Add chamomile teato your pet’s water.
Use a valerian root supplement(vet-approved).

Avoid valerian root for pregnant pets or those on medication.


3. Lavender & Aromatherapy for Relaxation

Lavender essential oilhas calming properties.
Helps reduce fear and restlessnessduring travel.

How to Use:
Diffuse lavender oilin the car or new home.
Dab a drop of diluted lavenderon their bedding.

Never apply undiluted essential oilsdirectly on pets!


4. Pheromone Sprays & Diffusers

Dog appeasing pheromones (DAP)mimic a mother dog’s natural calming scent.
Feliway sprayhelps cats feel safe in unfamiliar places.

How to Use:
Spray your pet’s carrier, car seat, or bedding.
Use a plug-in diffuserin your new home.

Works best when used consistently for a few days before travel.


5. Calming Music & White Noise

Classical music lowers heart rate and anxietyin pets.
White noise blocks out scary travel sounds.

How to Use:
Play relaxing pet musicbefore and during the trip.
Use a white noise machinein the new home to reduce stress.

Keep volume lowto avoid overstimulation.


6. Thundershirts & Weighted Blankets

Pressure wraps like Thundershirtsprovide comfort and security.
Weighted blankets mimic the feeling of being held.

How to Use:
Wrap your pet in a Thundershirt 30 minutesbefore travel.
Place a weighted blanketin their carrier or bed.

Ensure the wrap is snug but not too tight.


7. Natural Chews & Treats for Anxiety Relief

Pumpkin or chamomile chewsoffer digestive and calming benefits.
L-Theanine treatshelp balance mood naturally.

How to Use:
Give a calming chew 20-30 minutesbefore travel.
Look for organic, vet-approved brands.

Avoid chews with artificial additives or fillers.


3. Travel & Moving Preparation Tips for Less Stress

1. Prepare a Safe Space for Your Pet

Set up a cozy areawith their bed, toys, and familiar scents.
Use a covered cratefor added security.


2. Get Your Pet Comfortable with the Carrier or Car

Let them explore the crate/car days before travel.
Reward with treats and praisefor calm behavior.


3. Pack a Pet Travel Kit

Water & food bowls
Familiar blanket or shirt with your scent
Calming sprays or CBD oil
Favorite toys or chews
Portable litter box (for cats)

Stick to your pet’s routineto minimize stress.


4. Take Breaks & Use Positive Reinforcement

Stop for bathroom and stretch breakson long trips.
Offer rewards and comfortfor calm behavior.
Keep travel sessions short at first, then extend gradually.

Never force a pet into a carrier or car—make it a positive experience.


Conclusion

Moving or traveling with pets doesn’t have to be stressful!
Use natural remedies like CBD, herbal teas, and aromatherapy.
Try calming treats, Thundershirts, and pheromone sprays.
Create a familiar, safe spacebefore the trip.
Reward calm behaviorand take frequent breaks.

With patience and preparation, you can help your pet adjust smoothly and feel secureduring any move or trip!

 

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