Cat carriers (also called crates), are considered by many to be a necessary evil. Necessary to protect your cat in transit to the car, while in the car, and at the vet. The 'evil' downside is that the crate reminds the cat of the transport, car, and vet office.
Here are some tips to make the carrier and traveling with your cat less scary and hopefully, more appealing. Practicing these tips in advance of using the carrier work best. Small, short sessions in a comfortable environment over time are much better than only bringing out the crate prior to a trip.
1. Clean Carrier
Image courtesy of PriceGrabber
A clean crate is a good start. While this may seem obvious, 'clean' may be more than removing obvious dirt or foreign material. If your cat is carrier-sensitive, they may be picking up on smells that we can't. Odors from previous uses may be sending your cat a warning signal.
Careful with the cleanliness, though. Cleansers carry powerful odors. Stay away from ammonia-based, toxic, and heavily-fragranced cleansers. Soap and water are a great choice. Allow plenty of drying time before use.
One note about carriers: There are many more choices than the standard plastic 'airline' crates of years ago. Visit your local pet supply retailer to get an idea of the many types of carriers out there. Some may work better for your pet than others.
2. Favorite Things
Credit: Janet Tobiassen DVM
If your cat uses a bed or blanket around the house that fits inside the carrier, this provides comfort and familiar smells.
Caution is advised if the bedding is thick and fluffy - make sure your cat has enough room to stand up and turn around. Make sure that your cat won't be too hot and that there is enough ventilation.
3. Something Yummy
by Robert Couse-Baker on Flickr
Some cats are too nervous to think about food. However for some cats, treats or a small spoon of their favorite canned food work well. A 'new' treat adds to the interest.
Feeding your cat regular meals in the carrier when a trip is not planned, also help.
Related: Tell us about your favorite cat treats and foods
4. Something Fun
by vieux bandit on Flickr
Catnip is something easy to try. Most cats (70%) react to catnip in some way. I like to sprinkle dried catnip on the blanket. Catnip-filled toys also work well.
Other cat toys (balls, stuffed toys, etc.) add interest and appeal to your cat's curious nature. When leaving toys in the carrier with your cat, be mindful of string ingestion and toy safety issues.
5. Feeling Fine With Feliway
Image courtesy of PriceGrabber
Feliway is a synthetic version of the naturally occurring facial pheromones of cats. For many cats, it produces a sense of calm and security. It is available over-the-counter and through some veterinary offices.
I attended a feline medicine conference led by a feline-exclusive veterinarian who uses Feliway "everywhere" - in the carrier, in the face masks (muzzle), on the towels used on the exam tables, etc. with much success.
Related: DAP is the "dog version" of Feliway
6. Talk to Your Vet
Janet Tobiassen Crosby DVM
Despite our best efforts, some cats will just have none of this carrier stuff. If your cat falls in this category, speak to your vet. Possible solutions include:
- Scheduling appointments during the 'quiet' times at the clinic
- Finding a feline-only veterinary office
- Home visits or mobile vet visits
- Medications - given at home prior to the visit or as soon as you arrive in the office to keep your cat calm and manageable for examination
7. More Tips for Cat Travel and Vet Visits
Cats need vet visits, too. They don't make it to the vet as often though, reasons often include difficulty getting the cat in the carrier and vet. Here are some additional tips and resources to help make the trip easier for continued health and well-being of your cat.
