How to Take Your Cat to the Vet

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Regular visits to the veterinarian promote the health and well-being of your cat. [1] However, taking your cat to the vet can be stressful. Whether they need a routine check-up, a minor surgical procedure, or an extended stay, nerves and anxiety can overwhelm your kitty. If it is time to take them to the vet, here are some good methods to help ease stress and turn a possibly negative experience into a positive one.

Part 1
Part 1 of 3:

Using a Cat Carrier

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  1. Both hard and soft cat carriers will allow you to safely carry your cat to and from the vet. The harder ones are better for vehicle transport. Training your cat to enter the carrier could take a few hours or a few weeks. In order to have sufficient time to test it out before use, try to obtain a carrier 1-4 weeks prior to the appointment. [2]
    • If you already have a carrier, make sure that your cat can still fit inside of it.
    • If you do not have a carrier, one can be purchased at your local pet store, department store, or online.
    • As an alternative, you could ask to borrow a carrier from a friend or possibly find one at your local thrift store, but be sure to clean and dry it thoroughly before use. A little vinegar added to mild soap and water will help eliminate odors.
  2. Carriers should be large enough for your cat to turn all the way around in it. If you choose to purchase a carrier online, do so far in advance of the appointment to ensure that you receive the carrier in time to habituate your cat to it.
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  3. It is likely that your cat will turn tail when they see the carrier, so don't pull it out from storage right before leaving for the appointment. This could make them remember the last time you went to the vet, if that experience was traumatizing.
    • Use the carrier at nap and play time. This will help eliminate negative associations your cat might have with the carrier.
    • To get them used to the carrier (again), first line it with shredded newspapers and a couple of small towels or large strips of fabric that contain a scent familiar to your cat.
    • Put cat treats in and around the carrier to lure your kitty inside. It might take some time for your cat to enter the carrier, so add fresh treats when needed.
  4. Once they seem comfortable in and around the carrier, you can put them in it. Quietly close the carrier door, and speak soothingly to them.
    • Be gentle when placing your cat in the carrier. If they still refuse, do not force them in. Instead, give them more time to get used to it.
  5. Once inside the carrier, taking your cat on short drives through the neighborhood could help ease your cat's anxiety.
    • Gently carry your cat to your vehicle, or to the train, subway, or bus stop. On public transportation, use a large towel to cover the carrier, so that your cat will be less anxious.
    • Place the carrier on a seat. If you are driving, buckle the carrier in for safety.
    • Speak soothingly to your cat, or play soft music during the drive.
    • Lengthen the trip each time, until the day of the appointment.
    • Be sure to bring plastic bags, mild disinfecting wipes, and small towels for cleanup in case they have an accident during the trip.
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Part 2
Part 2 of 3:

Transporting Your Cat to the Vet

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  1. Before leaving, make sure that your cat is ready. Groom them by brushing their fur and, if need be, clip their front claws so that they do not scratch you or the vet.
  2. To help your cat stay clean and comfortable, be prepared.
    • Pack plastic bags for waste disposal, and mild disinfecting wipes and small towels for cleanup.
    • Pack a large towel to cover the carrier while among crowds or in the waiting room.
    • Pack your cat's favorite treats and some of their favorite toys. You can even place one inside the carrier to help them feel safe.
    • If you are driving to the vet's office, obey all traffic laws, maintain the speed limit, and avoid sharp turns.
    • If the trip is long, make sure your cat has an area inside where they can relieve themself. The shredded newspapers work well as litter while you're on the road. Bring extra newspaper.
  3. Cover the carrier, or keep the carrier covered, with the towel once you are in the waiting room.
    • Do not take your cat out of the carrier unless it needs to be cleaned. Other animals in the waiting room might incite your cat to pounce at or scratch them.
    • If your cat seems happy without the towel, then do not use it but keep in on hand, just in case.
  4. Once your cat survives the waiting room and is called in to the see the vet, it is important that you continue to soothe any anxiety they may feel.
    • Continue to speak soothingly to them, especially if the carrier is covered. Your cat needs to know that you are close.
    • Ask the vet for the best way to remove your cat from the carrier. Once inside, they might be just as afraid to come out as she was to go in.
  5. Very gently and while speaking soothingly, reach inside the carrier to remove your cat. Set them on the table, if you are instructed do so.
    • Follow the vet's instructions for how to handle your cat. If asked to hold them down firmly, do so without undue pressure. If you are unsure how to do this, ask the vet or vet assistant (if present) for help.
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Part 3
Part 3 of 3:

Taking Your Cat Home

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  1. Depending on the type of appointment your cat had, or if you are returning to the vet after leaving them there for surgery or observation, taking your cat home can create another anxious experience.
    • Make sure the carrier is clean before leaving. Clean it, if necessary, replacing the newspaper and towels.
  2. Give your cat a treat for being a good patient and shower them with affection before placing them back into the carrier. Before leaving the office, be sure to confirm when they might need to return for a checkup or follow-up appointment.
  3. Cover the carrier again with the large towel, if your cat seems nervous. Gently set the carrier in place. If returning in a car, buckle up the carrier again.
  4. Your cat will be ready to feel at home again.
    • Once home, set the carrier down and gently open the door.
    • Do not force your cat out; they will exit on their own when they are ready.
  5. Clean and dry the carrier thoroughly and store it in a place where it will not get damaged (or return to the person from whom it was borrowed). Many carriers can be used for plane travel, running errands, and when visiting friends or family.
    • Clean, dry towels and newspapers can be stored in the carrier for later use.
    • Regular use of the carrier will keep your cat feeling comfortable with it.
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How Often Should You Take a Cat To The Vet?



Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    What if my cat hates going in the carrier?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    Make the carrier a nice place to be. Place a puppy pad or absorbent material on the base. Then make a comfy bed for the cat to lie on. An old T-shirt is just fine, especially since your scent will help reassure the cat.
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      Tips

      • For especially skittish cats, you can use a Pheromone spray in and around the carrier and in your vehicle (never spray directly on your cat) to help lower anxiety. Consult with your vet before use, and follow instructions carefully. Pheromone sprays can be purchased in pet stores, and in many department and drug stores where pet supplies are sold. [3]
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      • If you are fairly certain that your cat will outgrow the carrier before you will need it again, donate it to a local animal shelter or give to someone in need.
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      • Always be gentle when handling your cat, especially when going to unfamiliar places.
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      Warnings

      • Always keep your cat in the carrier while driving. Most people find it difficult to stop their car when a cat is under the brake pedal.
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      • Don't try to force your cat to go into their carrier unless it is an emergency.
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      • Only let a person you are sure will be gentle carry your cat, inside or outside the carrier.
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      Things You'll Need

      • A cat
      • A cat carrier
      • A vet
      • A responsible cat sitter, if you will not be accompanying your cat on their visit.

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      References

      1. ↑ http://icatcare.org/advice/keeping-your-cat-healthy
      2. ↑ https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/virtual-pet-behaviorist/cat-behavior/teaching-your-cat-ride-carrier
      3. ↑ http://www.depts.ttu.edu/animalwelfare/Research/Pheromones/

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To take your cat to the vet, start by getting a cat carrier far enough in advance to train your cat to enter it. In order to get your cat into the carrier without a fuss, use it during nap and playtime. Additionally, put cat treats in and around the carrier to lure your cat inside for a few trial runs. For the actual appointment, cover the carrier with a towel while in the waiting room to keep your cat calm. When it’s time to take your cat out of the carrier, do so gently while speaking in a calm and soothing voice. For more tips from our Veterinary co-author, including how to take your cat home from its vet appointment, keep reading!

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