Have you ever had a cat who hated going to the vet, turning what should be a simple trip in to an absolute ordeal? If the only time your cat sees their carrier or takes a ride in the car is when it’s time to visit the vet, of course they are going to hate it. Try these simple tips and see the difference it makes.
At home
- Don’t leave their carrier in the cupboard. Instead, place it in a room where your cat enjoys spending time. It should become so familiar that they begin to sleep and play inside it.
- Place a blanket or towel inside for comfort and to absorb your cat’s scent, which will help them stay calm.
- Use a toy or a food treat to encourage them in to the carrier.
In the car
- Secure the carrier in the back seat using a seat belt and cover it with a towel.
- Ask your parents to take your cat for short trips in the car so your cat can become familiar with traveling. Once around the block on the weekend is a good starting point.
- Once they are comfortable with this distance, take them for slightly longer trips. Increase the length of the trip each time your cat becomes comfortable with the shorter distance.
This should make visits to the vet or any other journeys less stressful for you and your cat. Remember, always use a secure, purpose-designed cat carrier and never open a carrier in transit.
And for more great tips on how to place your cat in a carry cage, check out the Cat Protection Society’s YouTube video at or visit catprotection.org.au.
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