According to a study conducted in the United States, more than 60% of pet owners dislike going to the veterinarian. It can be challenging to get your cat into a safety carrier. Many pet owners postpone health medical care for their cats. Here is how you can have a pleasant veterinary visit.
1. Get Some Practice with Your Pet
During a veterinary exam, the pet-sensitive body parts such as ears, mouth, legs, and paws are repeatedly touched, which may cause discomfort. While at home, schedule sessions and practice to feel each part of your cat. Reward your cat with their favorite treats, so they associate handling with something enjoyable and tasty. If your pet is frequently held at home, they get used to it, and they will be more comfortable being touched during a veterinary visit.
2. Assuage Your Pet’s Anxiety About Traveling in A Car
Typically, cats are transported to a veterinary hospital in a safe carrier. Regrettably, many pets only interact with the airline during a veterinary visit. Here are some suggestions for making your cat’s safety carrier less intimidating and more friendly.
- Always leave the carrier open and stuffed with a toy, treats, little food, and a cozy blanket.
- Make a daily routine of putting your pet’s food in the safety carrier.
- Put your pet in their carrier regularly for a set amount of time to teach them that the airline isn’t just for veterinary visits.
3. Give Your Pet Some Exercise
Before a veterinary exam, take your pet for a brisk fetch walk to help reduce stress and make them more relaxed. Never interrupt your cat’s sleep to put it in the carrier; instead, play with them first to burn off some energy.
4. Boost Your Pet’s Food Motivation
Food is used to comfort or distract a pet, and it works best when they are hungry. Feed your cat a tiny amount of food in the morning to make it more treat-motivated during the veterinary visit. A fast pet can provide better and more consistent laboratory results if diagnostic tests are required.
5. Remain Calm to Help Your Pet Remain Calm
Many pet owners claim that their pets are aware that they are going to the veterinarian well before their appointment. If you are worried about how it will behave, the pet may become anxious. Maintain a calm demeanor before the veterinary visit and avoid over-reassuring as if something unusual is about to occur.
6. Make Pet Transportation as Comfortable as Possible
A pleasant and comfortable mode of transportation complements an excellent veterinary visit. Most dogs and pets enjoy car rides and feel more comfortable when placed in a safety carrier or a seat-belt restraint. Before the appointment, try taking short distance car rides with your pet, playing soft and calming music at a low volume, and speaking in a reassuring tonal voice. Allow enough time to get to your appointment to arrive calm and collected. If your dog or cat is prone to car sickness, please contact a vet for prompt medical attention to help relieve the upset stomach.
7. Pre-Hospital Visits
Consider pre-visits without carrying your cat. They can get used to the sounds, environment, and smells, meet the veterinary team members and enjoy tasty treats. Your pet may enjoy socialization and various activities at a personalized veterinary care facility.
Additionally, you can notify the veterinarian of any pertinent information. For example, if your pet is sensitive to its mouth, this will reduce stress during the visit and may also reveal information about potential underlying issues. Mouth sensitivity could indicate oral health issues.
8. Relaxation Aids for Pets
During a veterinary exam, pets are afraid to the extent of needing more assistance. If Feliway or Adaptil sprays do not relieve their anxiety in the safety carrier or car, they can be given a mild sedative. The goal is for your pet to be comfortable, relaxed and remember their visit positively.
Finally, every pet owner’s responsibility is to care for their pets’ health by taking them to a Veterinary Hospital. However, transporting these pets to the veterinarian can be stressful and difficult. If you are experiencing such issues, the suggestions above may assist you.
