Cat Carriers: Tips to Get Your Cat Used to Them

It’s ironic: cats will immediately occupy any box you set on the floor, yet often resist being placed into a carrier. This could be because they associate carriers with going to the vet, usually when they’re already feeling sick. It’s very important, though, for your cat to be in a carrier any time you’re leaving the house. Owners carrying cats in their arms are likely to lose their pets, sustaining some scratches in the process. If your cat isn’t fond of the carrier, here are some tips that can help.

• Make the carrier a familiar object. If possible, keep the carrier out in the house all of the time, not tucked away in a closet or the garage. Don’t keep near the cat food or litter box, instead putting it in the living room or near where they sleep or hang out so that it becomes a familiar object.
• If you can’t keep it out all the time, take it out before the vet visit. Bringing it out a few days before the cat has to ride in it to the vet will allow your pet to get familiar with it so it isn’t so scary on the big day.
• Make the carrier an appealing space. Spray some calming pheromone on a towel and put it inside the carrier to reduce stress and help your cat feel calm. Tossing a little bit of catnip into the carrier can be helpful, as can giving your cat affection and treats while he or she is inside.
• Use the carrier for play. If your kitty likes laser pointers or feather dancer toys, playing those games in or around the carrier can make it feel more fun.
• Clean the carrier post-vet. Washing off the smells of the vet visit can make your cat’s carrier more appealing the next time.
• In a pinch, use the “Blindfolded Superman” technique. Keeping the carrier out of sight and earshot of your cat, place it on a surface you can easily reach without bending or stooping. Pick up the cat, securing the front legs in front of the kitty with your dominant hand. Place your other hand over the cat’s eyes. Place your cat’s front feet and head into the carrier and gently push the cat all the way in. Shut the carrier before the cat has the chance to turn around and escape.

At Reed Animal Hospital, we treat your pets as if they were our own. Our goal is to help you and your pet enjoy a healthy, fulfilling life together, so our extraordinary team offers a wide range of services. We’ve got veterinarians, technicians, assistants, and receptionists, all prepared to help you and your pet, and we even offer referrals to specialty surgeons, many of whom will travel to our office to consult with you. For more information or to make an appointment, call us in Campbell at 408-369-1788, or in Saratoga at 408-647-2906.