My youngest cat (of two) is very dependent and high-strung. He either needs my attention or the attention of the older cat. The older cat cleans him and sleeps with him regularly. They are both technically adult cats, although the younger one Louis is turning 2 in the fall (Theodore is 3 or 4). They are ragdolls. But Louis was always coddled by Theodore and I think that is probably why he is so dependent, whiny and high-strung. Normally, it's kind of cute although his screaming at 4am we could do without. My family in Canada loves my Youtube videos of the cats making out.
But I am moving soon and have tried taking the cats to the condo to get a feel for it. Theodore prances around all happy and Louis cowers and starts hyperventilating. The last time I took Louis, he went as far back in his carrier as possible and would only calm down if I put my arm and face in the carrier (it was a very long 6 hours). I ended up half-napping on the floor to try and assure him everything was fine. His breathing way too fast and he was drooling.
So, I called the vet who is calling me back. I get the feeling he is going to need medication, probably a short-term prescription for something like Valium. The only time I have ever seen a cat that scared was the last time I flew with Theodore (in the cabin with me) and he drooled and hyperventilated but it was a relatively short flight (although I was myself almost in hysterical tears when we landed because I was so worried about him). Theodore is a champ at this point - planes, cars, new apartments - he's done it all. He has more air miles than many people. Louis... this is the first time things have changed for him in any way.
Has anyone else here ever had to give a cat or dog psychiatric medication for anxiety? I am not too keen on the idea but I honestly think there is no other option. I would rather have it on hand than be screwed (with a huge bill or a sick cat) because we have to go to the emergency vet.