How to catch a cat

Some truth in this! If you put the cat carrier out in the lounge or bed room a few days ahead of your cat's vet visit he may just find it a comfy and secure hiding place.... instead of something to avoid and make a fuss about!

Getting your cat in the carrier...

Does your cat put on the brakes and go all out to avoid the carrier? Try this technique, ably demonstrated by Mike Karg, an American cat vet.

Visiting the vet?

Veterinary visits don't have to be stressful for you or your cat. Happy visits to the vet start well before the big day. Ideally we should acclimatise our cats to carriers and cars while they are still kittens.
How can we minimise these stresses here and now though?

1. Ask reception to book you at a quiet time or when no dogs are around if possible

2. Socialise cats to the carrier and car:

• Leave the carrier out permanently in your home. Many cats will use it as a comfortable resting or hiding place or playaround it, particularly if it has been about since they were kittens

• Withhold food before travel to prevent travel sickness and consequent negative feelings about car rides

• Short practice rides in the car followed by a good experience such as a favourite food help some cats to relax about cars

3. Apply Feliway spray to bedding in the carrier regularly and just before transport. Feliway contains a natural pheromone that relaxes cats. Familiar clothing from a favourite person before a visit or hospital stay may also calm your cat

4. Cover the carrier with a towel or blanket or place one over the cat inside the carrier so that she can hide if she needs to

5. In the waiting room place the carrier up off the ground on a seat or bench and well away from dogs

The dreaded vet visit

Most cats would rather not visit the vet.  However, annual checks catch nasty conditions early and older cats with chronic issues need to visit much more often.

Carriers that I can lift the top off are ideal in the exam room because your cat can stay comfortably in his safe haven while I work around him.

Cats that use their carrier as an occasional bed or hidey hole at home seem most relaxed about being locked up in it for the car ride over.  Some people find short trial rides in the carrier and car reduce anxiety (and constant cries for help!) further.

I like to speak in a soft low voice to my patients as I examine them.  If you can remain calm and speak and move quietly too, your cat is more likely to stay relaxed.  Even the most laid back puss will gratefully receive gentle petting and massage in a stressful situation.