Does your cat get anxious when it’s time to visit the vet? Do you delay taking them for important check-ups as a result? This can be a common issue, however it’s important to give your cat the medical attention they need from routine health checks and vaccinations to veterinary care when they are unwell.

We have some tips to help prepare your cat and make these visits run as smoothly and comfortable as possible for both you and your cat.

Keep calm

Our pets sense our own fears and anxiety so it’s important to stay calm when taking your cat to the vet. Offer your cat plenty of affection and talk to them in a soft, gentle voice before, during and after their visit. This can help calm both you and your cat. Give yourself plenty of time to get ready, travel and arrive at the vets so you are not in a rush.

Choose a suitable carrier

Choose a carrier that is suitable for your cat’s size. It should be large enough for your cat to sit, stand and turn around comfortably. The ideal carrier should be strong, lightweight and easy to clean. You also want a large opening to make its easy to get your cat to get in and out without a struggle. If you have more than one cat, you will need a separate carrier for each one.

Line the carrier with a soft towel or blanket for comfort and to soak up any accidents along the way. Bring spare bedding and a plastic bag, just in case you need to replace this when you arrive or for the drive home.

Practice, practice, practice

Practice handling your pet. Two common areas that pets often object to being touched are their feet and ears. Get in the habit of regularly checking these areas, as well as grooming and general handling whilst offering positive praise and treats. This will help create a positive association with being touched, reducing your cats fear and struggle when being handled by the vet.

You will also need to help your cat feel comfortable using the carrier at home, prior to using it in the car. Most cats only see the carrier come out when it’s time to visit the vet. To avoid a negative association, leave the carrier out at all times or in the days leading up to your veterinary visit. Line the carrier with comfortable bedding, toys and leave the door open. Place treats in the carrier to encourage your cat to go inside, explore and create a positive association with its use.

Once your pet is relaxed inside their carrier, start practicing short car trips and gradually increase the amount of time spent in the car. Keep it positive, bring along their favourite toys, bedding and treats and reward them along the way for good behaviour.

Avoid feeding close to visit

Avoid feeding your cat 4-5 hours before you leave to prevent nausea or vomiting during the car ride. A hungry cat will also be more motivated to accept their favourite treats from the veterinary team as a distraction.

Bring along their favourite treats, toy and blanket to offer comfort during their visit, help reduce their anxiety and reward their good behaviour.

Help them feel secure in the car

When transporting your cat in their carrier, try to avoid swinging it or allowing it to bump into anything. Secure the carrier in the car with a seatbelt to prevent it slipping when the car moves or stops. You can also place a blanket over the carrier to help them feel more secure. If they meow or make any noises whilst driving, calmly talk to them to reassure them. Try to drive smoothly without loud music.

Ask your vet for help

When booking your appointment, ask your vet when they are least busy and schedule that time. Let the veterinary team know if you need any assistance when you arrive. Speak to your vet during the consultation about your current and past visits and ask for ways to improve your cats comfort level for visits in the future.

We are here to help. If you have any questions or need support with bringing your cat to the vet, please call us on 03 8784 4444.

6 Tips for taking your cat to the vet