Making Your Cat’s Trip to the Vet Stress-Free

The many misconceptions about cats can hinder our ability to provide the best possible healthcare. The very qualities we admire about our feline family members, their independence and self-sufficiency, are often what misleads us into believing they can take care of themselves. The fact is, cats hide their pain well, which can make it hard to detect any issues they may have. Additionally, both indoor and outdoor cats can be affected by internal and external parasites. These are some of the reasons why we recommend all cats, regardless of lifestyle, visit the veterinary clinic at least once per year.

We love our feline family members for their autonomous and elusive nature, but ironically, it’s those very traits that can make it challenging when it’s time to see the veterinarian. Making sure our cat is not suspicious of their carrier, will go a long way.

Here are some tips to help your cat feel comfortable and safe in their crate:

  • Familiarize them with their carrier well in advance of their appointment.
  • Leave the carrier in a familiar and desirable spot.
  • Put a blanket in the carrier, for comfort and traction.
  • Leave the door open, so they are comfortable with going in and out.
  • Make the carrier a playful place.

Sometimes, no matter how fun you make their crate, they still avoid it all at costs. In these situations, take the following steps to transport your cat safely:

  • Put a towel in the carrier and place it on its end, with the open door facing the ceiling.
  • Pick them up under their front legs, supporting their hindquarters with your other hand.
  • Carefully lower your cat bottom-end first.
  • Close the door and secure the latch, rotate gently to return the carrier to the correct position.

For further tips and tricks, check out International Cat Care’s instructional video. Making the trip to the vet as stress-free as possible will help your cat get the best care possible.

Written by Rachael Deska, VA