Cats & Carriers: Friends not foes!

It is important to acclimate your cat to it's carrier before the day of their appointment to minimize the stress of the visit.  Carriers can provide a sense of security in a new and scary place.  It is extremely important for the health of your cat to have regularly-scheduled, low-stress visits to a veterinarian.  Beginning to acclimate your cat to its carrier 2-3 weeks before his or her scheduled visit will make both of you feel much better about the visit to your veterinarian.

Below are several steps to take to make your cat's visit to your veterinarian as happy and stress-free as possible!

1. Selecting the best carrier for your cat
·         The carrier needs to be stable--some cats prefer soft but most prefer hard-case carriers
·         Easy to carry and handle
·         It should have an opening at the top and front (see carrier pictured above)
·         The top should be easily removable
·         The carrier should be the right size--big enough for your cat, but small enough to handle easily

2. Choosing the best area to familiarilize your cat with his carrier
·         The area should be convenient for you and your cat
·         Some cats prefer elevated resting areas, but ensure the carrier is secure
·         Choose places your cat currently prefers to rest

3. How to make your carrier cat-friendly
·         Leave the door open to allow your cat to explore
·         Place a favorite soft blanket or a soft piece of clothing from your cat's favorite person inside the carrier
·         Use a feline pheromone spray, such as Feliway, at least 15-30 minutes prior to introducing it to your cat
·         Cats like warmth--place the carrier in a warm spot or a sunbeam

4. Feed and play with your cat in and around the carrier
·         Offer special and delicious meals inside the carrier (but do not place your cat's only source of food in the carrier--this can lead to excessive stress)
·         Play with toys, especially "fishing pole" type toys, in and around the carrier
·         Allow your cat to "catch" the toy inside the carrier

5. Getting your cat used to transporting in the carrier
·         Some cats prefer to see out during transport, although most prefer to have the carrier covered
·         Use a blanket or a towel with a familiar scent to cover the carrier
·         Secure your cat's carrier in the backseat with a seatbelt
·         Begin by placing your cat in the car and starting the engine for a few minutes at a time
·         After your cat tolerates this well, drive around the block to get him used to a moving vehicle
·         Slowly increase the distance and time your cat spends in a moving vehicle

An informational video of this process can be viewed at http://www.catalystcouncil.org/.  Additonal informational resources about the importance of regularly scheduled kitty wellness exams is available at http://www.catvet.com/ and http://www.healthycatsforlife.com/. We hope that by taking these steps, your furry feline friend will soon look forward to going to see the veteriarian!

Written by Dr. Elly Burnett