At some point in their life, your cat will make a trip to the vet. While this is usually a stressful event, there are a number of things you can do to make it easier for both of you.
When transporting your cat anywhere outside the house, use a cat carrier, even if they usually likes to be held. Your cat can easily become frightened while in an unfamiliar place or surrounded by unfamiliar people. Even a friendly cat may bite, scratch or try to escape.
Your cat may also urinate or defecate when they become frightened. A carrier will make sure this mess doesn't end up on you or on the waiting room floor. Line your cat carrier with familiar and comforting bedding - use something they usually sleep on or an old piece of clothing that has your scent. Covering the cat carrier with a blanket or towel may also help keep your cat relaxed. Cats like to hide when they're frightened or uncertain and the darkness and covering provided by the blanket will make them feel safe and secure.
Familiarise
Cats don't tend to like trips to the vet, where they are examined and surrounded by strange sights, smells, people and animals. If the only time your cat ever sees the carrier is immediately before it is used to take them to the vet, they will understandably develop a strong aversion to it.
Your cat may hide every time the carrier appears or fight tooth and nail not to be put into it. You can help prevent this behaviour by leaving the cat carrier out all the time. Make sure it's a familiar part of your cat's surroundings. You may want to give your cat treats in the carrier every once in a while just so they think of it as a 'good place'.
Tasty Tips
If your cat has developed a strong aversion to the carrier it may be difficult to coax them inside. Try persuading with treats or ask someone to hold the carrier upright while you place your cat inside. If your cat is determined not to enter, don't force them, just put the carrier away. Let your cat relax for a while, and then wrap in a blanket or towel and quickly place in the carrier.
Once you are at the vet's clinic keep the carrier covered. This will continue to make your cat feel safe. If you can't avoid sitting near other animals, then at least try to keep away from the loud or boisterous ones.
Ask to help
When it's time for the consultation, ask your vet if you can help to hold your cat. Remember though, that your vet and the veterinary nurses will be very experienced at holding uncomfortable or frightened animals and know how to avoid getting hurt or hurting your cat.
So don't worry, your cat is in good hands. The vet may cover your cat's head with a towel, again this is to give the impression they are hiding.
Veterinary clinics can be very busy places. If you want extra time to talk to your vet about your cat, plan ahead. Book a longer appointment if you can or don't come during peak hours. Veterinary clinics are usually at their busiest in the early morning or in the evening when people aren't at work.
Take your cat to the vet regularly. Not only will this allow them to get used to the experience, but will also give the vet a chance to get used to your cat! The more a veterinarian sees your cat the better the vet will be able to address their needs.
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