Getting your cat used to carry boxes and car travel

Does your attempts to get your cat into its carry box look more like a 3 ring circus then a calm and easy manoeuvre?

It need not be so, it just takes a little time and patience and it can all go smoothly.

Firstly choosing the right carrier can help.

Ideally you want at least 2 ways of getting into and out of a carrier. One of the best options is a hard carrier that has a front door and that can have the top lifted off. By placing the bottom half in a favourite resting spot, complete with snuggly blanket your cat will learn to like the bottom half of the box and use it regularly for a little cat nap. Once they are happily snuggling in the bottom half you can place the top half on top but leave the door out, until they are happy to snuggle in there. Once they are very comfortable with the box you can place the door in the carrier and use it to bring your kitty to the vet.It will take weeks of getting your cat really comfortable.To help make it an even better place you can leave treats in the cage for your kitty to discover. After the trip to the vet you can turn the bottom half into a bed again to keep your cat comfortable with his box.

Once your cat is comfortable in its cage, the next step for a calm vet visit or trip to the cattery, is to help them have a good car ride.

Having got your kitty into the cage calmly and without a rush, cover the cage with a towel. You can spray the towel with Feliway Pheromone to help your cat stay relaxed, for additional help. Now carry your cat carrier carefully (carrying the box holding it by the sides and not the handle) to the car and place the carrier on the floor behind the front passenger seat. This is the least stimulating and least frightening place for your cat to be. When the carrier is placed on a level between the 2 seats very little movement of the cage occurs and this gives your cat a feeling of security. Drive carefully and do not rush. Taking corners at speed will do nothing to calm your kitty’s nerves!

The final step for a calm vet visit for your cat is your arrival at the vet.

Again carefully carry your cat carrier (by the sides not the handle) to the waiting room and place it on a seat next to you, not on the floor. Face the carrier so the door or uncovered side of the carrier is facing towards you and away from other pets. Choose a seat away from dogs if possible. If dogs do frighten your cat, ask one of our receptionists if it is possible to wait in a consult room for your appointment. Keeping your Kitty feeling secure and calm is the best way for a pleasant vet visit.