Taking Your Cat to the Veterinarian

Sooner or later, every cat must visit the veterinarian. Whether it's for illness or injury or a check up and vaccinations, the process can be stressful for both you and your cat. There are things you can do to make taking your cat to the veterinarian easier on your cat, your veterinarian and yourself.

Before it's even on your cat's radar that you are taking him to the veterinarian try to trim your cat's nails. This can be done a few days in advance and will result in less chance of injury for you and your veterinarian if fluffy freaks out. Make sure the cat carrier is clean and secure but don't let your cat know you are doing this. Many cats associate the cat carrier with going to the vet. Have the cat carrier handy but be very, very sneaky about it.

Remain calm. Cats know when you are stressed and your cat may be able to figure out you are taking him to the veterinarian even though you are trying to deceive him. When it is time to go move calmly and maintain your composure. Confine that cat to a small space so you can catch him and put him in the carrier to take him to the veterinarian. A bathroom works well, hide the carrier in the tub, pull the shower curtain and lure fluffy in with a treat. Close the door and the deed is almost done.

There is nothing worse than chasing your cat around the house, up and down stairs. It is not fun to poke your cat out from under bed with a broom. It is even possible for a cat to hide so well you just can't find him no matter how thorough your search is. I generally allow 30 minutes cat catching time in addition to the travel time to the veterinarian. I usually don't need it all, but better safe than sorry.

Most people stuff the cat in the carrier anyway they can. If you are having a hard time, try putting the cat in rear end first, so he can't see where he is going. Try standing the carrier up on end and lowering the cat into it. Always bank the carrier against a wall or have someone hold it so it won't move while you are trying to get the cat in it. Nicer cat carriers often have a top loading option as well as the usual end door and this can be a great way to load the cat. It is also easier to comfortably load an injured or recovering cat without causing discomfort.

Heat or cool your car to a comfortable temperature before loading the cat in his carrier. Freezing winter temperatures or summer heat can be a shock, so make your car comfortable for your cat. Turn off the radio. It is just more confusion and stress for your already upset cat. Having a veterinarian who is a few miles from you instead of many miles means a shorter drive and less stress for your cat. Take this into consideration when choosing a veterinarian.

When you get your cat to veterinarian's office take the cat inside immediately. Leave him in the carrier to wait your turn. This reduces the chance of a melt down due to stress from a strange environment, strange people and worst of all, dogs. Once you are in the hands of your veterinarian or vet tech, they should be able to help you keep your cat under control and accomplish what is necessary at that vet visit.

Taking your cat to the veterinarian is a necessary chore and a part of good cat care. You can do it.