Help Your Cat Have Better Trips to the Vet
Fear is the primary cause of misbehavior. Knowing this can help prevent problematic veterinary visits.Getting the Cat Into the Carrier
Keep the carrier out in the home for a few days prior to your visit, with the door propped open. Allow your cat to experience the carrier without being "trapped" inside it. Put some treats inside, to help train your cat to view the carrier as a safe haven and "home away from home." A quick response is crucial in case of disaster or emergency.
Carriers that have both a top and a front opening are best. Top-loading carriers allow for stress-free placement and removal of the cat. A removable carrier top enables cats to be examined while remaining in the bottom half of the carrier.
Adjusting to Car Rides
Always put the cat in a carrier or other safe container. Cardboard boxes are NOT recommended, as the cat can escape and could cause an accident.
Take the cat for regular car rides, beginning with very short ones, to places other than the veterinary hospital. Reward your cat with a treat at the end of a "good" ride.
To prevent car sickness, do not feed the cat before traveling.
Pleasant Veterinary Visits
Bring along the cat's favorite treats, toys, and blanket.
Perform regular home maintenance procedures, including grooming, nail trimming, and teeth brushing.
"Play vet" procedures that mimic temperature taking, ear cleaning, and pilling can help cats better adjust to the veteriinary hospital and to future home care when necessary. You don't have to be rough- just lift your cat's tail, open it's mouth, and feel around it's abdomen and chest lightly from time to time.
Regular trips to the veterinary hospital for "fun" visits involving no examinations or prodecures provide owners and staff with the opportunity to reward the cat with praise and food treats.
From the American Association of Feline Practitioners.
