Cats usually seem pretty independent. They entertain themselves pretty well, they bathe and groom themselves, sometimes it’s like they don’t need us at all. However, they do. Cats still need to go to the vet for regular visits. And it is because of a cat’s independent nature that taking them to the vet can be a pretty stressful experience for not only your cat but for you too.
Why does my cat hate the vet so much?
Nobody really likes going to the doctor, right? Well, imagine having to go to the doctor without knowing why or what it is you’re doing? Plus, for the most part, cats are not accustomed to riding in the car. The car ride can be just as stressful as seeing the vet. However, once they make it to the vet, that is when their senses really kick into high gear. There are tons of different smells from other animals, people, and cleaners. Then all of the sounds from everyone and the animals behind closed doors. Your cat can hear and smell it all on levels that can be a little hard for us to understand. So it’s no wonder that they get overstimulated and anxious at the vet.
Top 5 tips to make a trip to the vet easier:
There are some things you can do to get your cat ready for the vet and help make the trip as smooth as possible for you both.
1. Bring out the carrier out a few days ahead so that your cat can become accustomed to it. Leave the door of the crate open so they can come and go and explore as they please.
2. Spray the interior of your cat carrier with a synthetic feline pheromone, which has been shown to decrease stress in cats. I like pet calm, by Richards Organics. Try spraying the inside of your cat carrier with one of these products 30 minutes before using it. This simple step may help to calm your cat and decrease anxiety.
3. Win your cat over with treats. Put some your cat’s favorite treats with catnip inside the carrier. However, make sure to avoid treats if your cat is being fasted for anesthesia or special blood testing.
4. Make the carrier more inviting by placing a cozy blanket from home and favorite toys inside. Putting familiar objects inside will make the carrier less foreign and more inviting.
5. If possible when your cat is still a kitten drive around the block to accustom your cat to being in a carrier and in a car. You can do this when they get older also it just takes more time. For most cats, the car ride to the veterinarian is a frightening experience and can set the stage for a stressful encounter at the vet. Reward them with their favorite treats so they associate positive experiences with the car drive.
A trip to the vet can be a pretty rough time, but with a little thought and preparation, it doesn’t have to be so bad.