Carrier training can help promote a lifetime of cat health

  

Let's face it: many cats dislike (dare we say hate?) their carriers, disappearing any time the dreaded contraption comes out. Unfortunately, this can make it really hard to get these cats to the hospital, a problem that can become serious if a cat is ill and needs to be seen as soon as possible.

To prevent this from happening, it is important to work with your cat to get them to like the carrier. The best way to do this is to make the carrier a positive space that your cat can relax in every day. 

Follow these steps to turn your cat’s carrier into a comfortable den: 

• Keep it out and about. Instead of storing the carrier away somewhere dusty and musty, like the attic or garage, keep it in the house where your cat likes to spend time. 
• Make it fun. Place a favorite blanket and several toys inside the carrier and periodically give your cat treats in there. You can even feed meals in the carrier to boost its appeal.
• Open it up. If your cat is particularly fearful of the carrier, you can start by leaving the top off so your cat can get used to hanging out in the base of the carrier first. 
• Add a little something. Catnip may entice your cat to go into the carrier, and calming synthetic pheromones may help ease anxiety caused by past carrier memories.
• Take a ride. Occasional fun carrier trips help dispel fears caused by car rides. The two of you can drive around the neighborhood or even head to your veterinary hospital just for some pets and treats. This will help your cat realize that carrier rides don’t always end in being poked and prodded—sometimes they take you fun places, too!

These few simple steps can significantly improve your cat’s experiences at the veterinary hospital. They may also save your cat’s life by making it easier for you to corral your cat into the carrier quickly in the case of an emergency. 

At VCA, we are dedicated to helping cats have positive experiences during appointments. Your veterinary team would be glad to discuss more ways to help your cat relax when they are visiting us at the hospital.

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