Struggling to get your cat into their carrier? Apex Vets tips will help
We know some cats can detest the cat carrier as it often means a trip in the car…and most likely to the vets… We don’t want to cause stress to your felines, so Apex Vets has come up with some advice on how to familiarise your pet cats with both the cat carrier and our practice.
Download our tips on how to keep your cat calm on a vet visit and share with other cat owners in and around Stirlingshire.
Download our guide on calmer vet visits
Why would I need to travel my cat?
Whether you’re the owner of a kitten, adult or senior cat, there are many reasons you may need to safely travel your cat, as stress-free as possible, to Apex Vets. Along with preventative care appointments for vaccinations and a microchip (if you haven’t done this yet), your cat may also need neutering or extra veterinary attention during their lifetime.
The team at Apex Vets wants all cat owners to be aware that we are more than happy to help you desensitise your cat to the clinic. It will benefit you, us, and your cat! Contact our reception team to discuss when would be an appropriate time to bring your cat to us for short, non-invasive, positive experiences, such as weight checks or treats.
Carrier training
- Before you even attempt to put your cat into the carrier, it is essential you can regularly handle them in a gentle and safe manner. Regular grooming and cuddling can help with this and ensure they are used to having their paws, ears, and mouth touched. This is likely to happen at one of our Denny clinic vet consultations.
- Leave the cat carrier around the house, making it friendly and inviting with blankets, treats and toys inside. This will help your cat to develop a sense of safety with the carrier rather than sensing stress or danger.
- The carrier you use will have a big effect on your cat’s experience. You need one big enough but snug enough that your cat can move around but is safe and secure at the same time. Make sure your cat carrier has plenty of ventilation. The team at Apex Vets recommend wire cat carriers with a removable top/front opening. This will help when it comes to getting your cat out and back into the carrier whilst at the clinic.
- Car journeys can upset any cat. Use short trips out to get them used to the sounds and motion of the car ahead of any vet trip. It will also help to cover the carrier during the journey. Use a light towel or breathable cloth to limit the visual stimulation your cat will be exposed to whilst in the carrier – this will help to reduce their stress-levels.
- Remaining calm and confident yourself will go a long way to helping your cat feel the same way. Speaking to them softly will help reassure them too.
If after practicing, your cat is still very nervous and stressed, contact Apex Vets on 01324 829 989 for advice on calming aids that could help. Pheromone sprays and calming treats can be useful tools if you get them right! Make sure you share Apex Vets’ top tips of calm vet visits and cat travel with other cat owners – use the social sharing buttons or copy and paste our URL.
