No, you've misunderstood me ........... our (lovely person as it happens) vet is just down the road (within walking distance of home actually) - the 200 mile plus trip each way comes after that - which is why we need the sedatives in the first place.

On previous trips my baby usually lasts a mere 10 mins. in the car until he "soils" by way of protest at been cooped up in his travel box - a little bit longer if one of us sits in the back with him (held on a leash & Harness) with the litter box between us (which he invariably uses repeatedly during the journey - often straining to "go" after the first couple of times) - and on one journey by car he even began hyperventilating on the back parcel shelf until we pulled over a let him have a "rest" - that's why we thought we might try to sedate him this time.

We don't feed him much before we set off by the way. Only a few little treats for the journey at regular intervals if he is "good" for us by way of reward. His main meal is reserved for the final destination.