Getting your feline to the vet...without STRESS!!!

Since, thankfully, our cats aren’t quite so self sufficient as the kitty below, we are responsible for that sometimes dreaded car trip to the vet.  Here is some information to hopefully ease that challenge.

Cats are officially the most popular pet in the US but vastly underrepresented at the veterinarian, often missing out on important preventive veterinary care.  Many cats (and people, for that matter) become very anxious at the mere thought of a trip to the vet.  Here are some suggestions to make your cat’s trip to the vet as positive as possible:

The crate—make it a friendly place to hang out: 

·        Invest in a crate with accessibility through the top or a carrier with a removable top portion.

·        Allow your cat free access to the crate at home to make it more inviting.  You can provide treats, a favorite blanket, food, and toys so your cat is comfortable with the carrier during visits to the vet.  You can eventually try feeding your cats enticing meals within the crate.

·        A feline pheromone product like Feliway may help to ease your cat’s stress level and can be sprayed on the bedding placed in the crate.

Click HERE for a great video on crate introduction and transport by the Catalyst Council.

The car ride—practice runs can make all the difference:

·        Get your cat used to going on rides in the car.  Take the opportunity to take your cat for a ride around the block and don’t forget to put a favorite toy, treat, or catnip in the carrier.

·        Covering the carrier with a blanket or towel can further ease anxiety and increase confidence.

·        Make sure to keep the stereo volume low, the windows up, and the air vents on to decrease stress.

·        Slowly progressive introduction to the car can decrease stress and anxiety related to trips.  Hopefully, after some practice runs in the car, your kitty will be more accustomed to trips and it can be a more positive experience.

·        Never leave your cat in a hot car or unattended for an extended period of time!

The visit to the veterinarian:

·        Bring special toys or treats for the visit to make the it as positive as possible.

·        Call ahead to see if the doctor is running on time to expedite your visit and shorten the time in the waiting room.

Please let us know if there’s any other we can ease your feline friend’s trip to the vet.  We are very happy to be part of your kitty’s health and well-being!

Written by:  Stephanie Kotas, DVM