Do You Have Trouble Getting Your Cat to the Vet?

Do you have trouble getting your cat to the veterinarian? We know how tricky it can be to get a cat comfortably into their carrier – it can be a very stressful experience for you and your cat! However, it is still important for cats to come into the office for wellness exams; these visits are imperative for your veterinarian to pick up on early signs of disease. This is especially important for cats because they are good at hiding symptoms. In an attempt to make these trips a little bit easier for both you and your kitty we’ve put together a list of tips:

1. Call and ask your vet about using a synthetic feline pheromone spray in your cat carrier to help reduce your cat’s stress level.
2. Take your cat’s carrier out of storage a few days before your appointment. Allow the cat to sniff, and become accustomed to the carrier – even going inside the carrier on his or her own terms.
3. Make the carrier comfortable for your cat – add a blanket and favorite toys from home. These familiarities may make the carrier more inviting.
4. Depending on the type of visit you are making to the vet, use treats! Help them associate the carrier as a positive place. However, if your veterinarian has indicated that your cat should fast before his or her visit, stay away from this tip!
5. Practice can make perfect! If you have time, take your cat for a quick ride around the neighborhood. If your cat becomes accustomed to the occasional car ride, your trip to the vet should be less stressful!
6. If all else fails, remember that Dr. Reed makes house calls!