How to make Trips to the Vet Easier
One of the most important things for you to do as a cat owner is to take occasional trips to the vet. No matter how healthy your feline seems, he still needs annual examinations to ensure that everything is fine. Unfortunately, most cats don’t particularly like going to the vet, especially since there is usually a car ride involved.
Don’t let this discourage you from taking your cat to the vet though. There are a few simple things you can do to make vet trips easier. Keep reading to learn a few useful tips.
If you plan to travel anywhere with your cat, it’s a must that you purchase a cat carrier. Never let your cat roam around in your cat unhindered while you’re driving. He may get startled and do something to cause you to get into an accident.
You should know that cats are very nervous when it comes to new surroundings. Don’t get a carrier and toss your cat inside and expect him to be fine with it. He will need a little bit of time to get used to it. That’s why you should let your cat spend time in the carrier for a few days before you need to use it while traveling to the vet.
When it comes to cat carriers, there are many different designs to choose from. Be wise with your selection. Getting one that opens from the top can make you and your vet’s life much easier. When it comes time to examine your cat, he won’t have nearly as much trouble doing so with that type of carrier.
It’s usually a good idea to reward your cat when he behaves well during vet visits. Therefore, bring a few treats with you on the vet trip. You don’t want to overfeed your cat though, so don’t let your cat eat a meal a few hours within time for the visit.
Cats can get very nervous riding in cars, even if they’re inside the carrier. A good way to help your cat relax is to use pheromones. These synthetic chemicals can be sprayed on a cloth put inside the carrier to make your cat feel better. Dried catnip works wonders too.
It can take a while for your cat to get used to traveling in the car. He will have a good reason to feel nervous whenever he gets in the car if the ride always end by him being examined by a veterinarian. That’s why it’s a good idea to take your cat for rides occasionally with no vet visits involved.
Having a good vet visit starts by choosing the right vet in the first place. Ideally, your cat won’t have to wait around in a room occupied by dogs. The vet should also do everything he can to make your cat feel comfortable. This includes letting him explore the room since cats are so curious about new environments.
In most cases, you don’t want to stay behind in the waiting room while your cat is being examined by the vet. Your feline will feel much more comfortable with you by his side. You will also be in prime position to understand exactly what’s going on with your cat by talking to the vet during the exam.
