The health and well-being of your cat can be promoted by regular veterinary visits.Taking your cat to the vet can be difficult.Nerves and anxiety can overwhelm her, whether she needs a routine check-up, a minor surgical procedure, or an extended stay.If it is time to take kitty to the vet, here are some good methods to help ease stress and turn a possibly negative experience into a positive one.
Step 1: A cat carrier is needed.
Soft and hard cat carriers will allow you to safely carry your cat to and from the vet.For vehicle transport, the harder ones are better.It could take a few hours to train your cat.Try to get a carrier 1-2 weeks prior to the appointment in order to have enough time to test it out.If you already have a carrier, make sure he can fit inside.If you don't have a carrier, you can buy one at your local pet store or online.It is possible to borrow a carrier from a friend or find one at a thrift store, but be sure to clean and dry it before use.Adding a small amount of vinegar to soap and water will help eliminate odors.
Step 2: The carrier needs to be the correct size.
It's important that the carriers are large enough for your cat to turn around.If you choose to purchase a carrier online, make sure you get it in time for your appointment to habituate your cat to it.
Step 3: The cat should be trained to enter the carrier.
It is likely that your cat will turn tail when she sees the carrier, so don't pull it out from storage right before you leave for the appointment.If that experience was traumatizing, this could make her remember the last time you went to the vet.At nap time, use the carrier.Negative associations your cat might have to the carrier will be eliminated by this.To get him used to the carrier, first line it with shredded newspapers and a couple of small towels or large strips of fabric that have a scent familiar to your cat.Put cat treats in the carrier to lure her inside.It might take some time for your cat to get into the carrier.
Step 4: Put your cat in the carrier.
You can put her in the carrier once she is used to it.Speak softly to her, and close the carrier door.Place your cat in the carrier with care.Don't force her in if she still refuses.Give her time to get used to it.
Step 5: Don't do a wet run.
Taking your cat on short drives through the neighborhood could ease his anxiety.Take your cat with you to the train, subway, or bus stop.If you use a large towel to cover the carrier on public transportation, your cat will be less anxious.The carrier should be on a seat.Buckle the carrier in if you're driving.Listen softly to your cat, or play soft music during the drive.The trip should be extended until the day of the appointment.If she has an accident during the trip, be sure to bring plastic bags, mild disinfecting wipes, and small towels.
Step 6: Prepare your cat.
Make sure that your cat is ready before you leave.If necessary, clip his front claws so that he doesn't scratch you or the vet.
Step 7: Required items should be brought.
Prepare your cat so that he stays clean and comfortable.Pack bags for waste disposal and wipes and towels for cleaning up.In the waiting room, pack a large towel to cover the carrier.Take your cat's favorite treats and toys with you.He can feel even safer if you place one inside the carrier.Obey all traffic laws, maintain the speed limit, and avoid sharp turns if you are driving to the vet's office.If the trip is long, make sure she has a place to relieve herself.The shredded newspapers work well as litter.There is extra newspaper to be brought.
Step 8: Take your cat into the office.
When you are in the waiting room, cover the carrier with a towel.If your cat needs to be cleaned, don't take it out of the carrier.Animals in the waiting room can cause your cat to attack.Don't use the towel if your cat is happy without it, just in case.
Step 9: Your cat should be comfortable during your visit.
When your cat is in the waiting room and called in to see the vet, it is important that you continue to soothe her anxiety.If the carrier is covered, continue to speak soothingly to her.She needs to know that you are close.The best way to get your cat out of the carrier is to ask the vet.She might be as scared to come out as she is to go in.
Step 10: The cat needs to be removed from the carrier.
Reach inside the carrier to remove your cat.If you are told to do so, place her on the table.The vet has instructions for how to handle a cat.Do not be pressured to hold him down firmly.If you don't know how to do this, ask the vet or her assistant for help.
Step 11: Prepare to go home.
Depending on the type of appointment your cat had, or if you are returning to the vet after leaving him there for surgery or observation, you can create another anxious experience for him.Before leaving, make sure the carrier is clean.If necessary, replace the newspaper and towels.
Step 12: Show your cat how happy you are.
Before placing your cat back into the carrier, give her a treat for being a good patient and shower her with affection.When she might need to return for a checkup should be confirmed before she leaves the office.
Step 13: You can either go to your car, station, or stop.
If your cat is nervous, cover the carrier with a large towel.Put the carrier in place.Buckle up the carrier if you return in a car.
Step 14: Don't make any stops on the way home.
Your cat will feel at home again.Once home, open the door and set the carrier down.When your cat is ready, don't force her out.
Step 15: The carrier should be stored.
Store the carrier in a place where it won't get damaged and be returned to the person who borrowed it.When visiting friends or family, many carriers can be used.The carrier can hold clean, dry towels and newspapers.The carrier will keep your cat comfortable.