Preventing Carrier Stress

When cat owners schedule an appointment with us, their main concern is getting their cats safely to the vet. It can be a stressful ordeal if your cat is not familiar with a carrier. A majority of cats do not like car rides, so a carrier is something that can help eliminate at least some of the stress. Some cats have no problem being placed in carriers, but others act like it's torture. They can be trained, though, with time and patience!

Carrier training takes place before the day of the vet appointment. First, you will want to purchase a carrier that is comfortable for your cat. Make sure it has proper protection, an easy entry/exit and is ventilated.

Introducing the Carrier

You want your cat to have a positive experience the first time the carrier is introduced. Leave the carrier in an open space where your cat spends a majority of its time. Place soft bedding, treats, catnip, or toys inside. Allow your cat to figure out on its own that the carrier is a safe space. There is no need to coax or encourage it. Sometimes it takes days to weeks before your cat will feel comfortable in its carrier. Remember to be patient and reward for good behavior. You don't have to be forceful.

Traveling with Your Cat

Make sure your cat is comfortable in the carrier. Provide bedding and make sure the carrier is clean. Place the carrier and your cat in an empty room and allow it to sniff around and eventually go inside. If it doesn't go inside, try to lure it with a toy or treat. As soon as it goes inside, shut the carrier door. Make sure to carry the carrier like a package and not by the handle. This helps prevents motion sickness since the carrier doesn't get moved around as much. When you get to your car, secure the carrier inside by placing it on a level surface and buckling it with a seatbelt. If your cat is anxious, you can cover the carrier with a towel or blanket. You can also spray Feliway in the carrier and in your car. Feliway is a calming cat pheromone and helps cats feel more relaxed and safe.

Emergencies

Sometimes you don't always have time to get your cat in a carrier, especially in an emergency. In this case, follow these helpful steps:

1. Take your cat and carrier into an uncluttered room.
2. Try bribing your cat with a treat or toy.
3. Close the side door and open the top of the carrier if it opens from the top.
4. Wrap your cat snuggly with a towel and place it in the carrier, bottom first.

DO NOT:

• Scruff your cat
• Place in a pillow case
• Turn carrier on its end and stuff in your cat

Getting your cat used to a carrier takes time and patience. Once you have a routine, taking your cat to the vet in a carrier will be a positive experience for the both of you.