Cats are freedom lovers (and escape artists).
Steps to Get a Cat in a Carrier:
- Acclimating Your Cat: Leave the carrier out with the door open for a few days so your cat can grow accustomed to the look and smell of it. Gradually close the door a few times while they’re exploring. This helps them get used to the process.
- Use a Blanket or Towel: Place the towel or blanket inside the carrier and then gently wrap your cat so they are comfortable. This helps your cat build positive associations with the carrier. Using a pheromone spray also makes the cat feel stress free before you even walk out of your front door.
- Use Treats or Toys: When in doubt, take the treats out. Get their favorite treat and put them in the carrier and be quick to close it up!
- Be Gentle: Don’t be in a rush and give your cat plenty of time to get inside and be comfortable. You know your cat best so choose either heads or tails for placing them inside.
You should never travel with your cat outside of its carrier. So how are you supposed to get your cat to its pet wellness exam or other vet visits if you can’t get it into its carrier?
Read on for some more in depth tips on getting your cat into the carrier with minimal hassle.
Train Your Cat to Enjoy Their Carrier
When a cat is a kitten, it is crucial to teach them to enjoy their carrier. As a result, they will grow up fully accustomed to it. You’ll appreciate how simple it is when they’re an adult!
A cat carrier shouldn’t feel like a scary place but a safe haven. If your cat doesn’t willingly climb in their carrier (some do), here are a few tips to de-sensitive them to the crate.
Ultimately, you want to create a positive association with the carrier. If your cat sees its carrier as a prison or torture device, that will make getting them inside much more difficult.
An easy way to send a positive message around the carrier is to feed them in it a few times. Place their food or a favorite treat inside and let them explore it on their own. If your cat isn’t motivated by food, use a favorite catnip filled toy instead or spray the carrier with an enticing scent.
If you have multiple cats, you should have multiple carriers. That way, none of them feel cramped inside.
How to Pick Up a Cat
Picking up a cat properly ensures your safety and your cat’s comfort. Approach your cat calmly to avoid startling them. If your cat is relaxed, place one hand under their chest to support their legs and use your other hand to scoop up their back legs. Place your cat safely inside the soft sided carrier and shut the door.
If your cat is on the more anxious side, cover the carrier with something to make them feel more secure and if s/he is completely opposed to being picked up, try not to force it and give them plenty of time and space.
Don’t Surprise Your Cat With Their Carrier
Whether your cat is used to the carrier or is still afraid of it, here’s a good trick.
Bring the carrier out of storage and into the living area at least a few days before the appointment. This way, the cat will become more familiar with it and feel less threatened when it’s time to go to their appointment. When you pull out the carrier right before it’s time to go, it’s a more jarring and sudden experience for you and your cat.
Another tip is to clean the crate before using it. Cats leave a trail of stress hormones on surfaces when they rub against inside the carrier. You should clean the carrier as much as possible to remove any previous odors, urine, and feces.
If you have a cat that’s not been in a carrier before, introduce it slowly. Place the carrier down and get your cat interested in it by using toys or treats.
You will want to start by placing the carrier in an area where your cat spends a lot of time. After a few days, move the carrier close to your cat’s bed and then right next to the food or water dish. Your pet will gradually acclimate to the carrier and create positive associations with being inside it.
Putting Your Cat In Its Carrier
Some cats will try to run and hide no matter what you do, so make sure you’re in a room without many hiding spots.
First, ensure you have a carrier that is the right size for your cat. There should be enough room for them to move around a bit, but not too much space where they feel insecure.
Second, try putting the carrier in a place where they already feel safe and comfortable, such as their favorite sleeping spot. You can also set a towel or blanket over the carrier to help them feel more secure. Finally, try enticing them with treats or their favorite toy inside the carrier.
Let Westmonte Animal Clinic Take Care of All Your Cat’s Needs
We want the best for your pets, and that includes enjoying their time before, during, and after their trip to the vet’s office.
If you are a cat owner in the Orlando area, bring your cat to our Altamonte Springs animal clinic for routine check-ups and preventive care. We are excited to welcome new clients! Our experienced and compassionate veterinarians will provide the best possible care for your feline friend, and we offer a wide range of services to keep your cat healthy and happy.
Call us for any questions, and let our helpful staff schedule an appointment for you and your feline friend!
