Mary Allen
There are many pitfalls lurking when taking a cat to the vet, which is discussed in more detail below. At the same time, however, there are also various options and tricks that you can use for each individual station of the vet visit to ensure that your house tiger does not become anxious and panicky, whether on the journey, in the waiting room, or during the examination.
Trip to the Vet
Don’t: If you don’t carry your kitty in a carrier on the way to the vet, you risk both your cat’s life and yours. A cat just sitting in a car can be thrown all over the car in an accident. There is also a risk that it will suddenly jump onto your lap while you are driving and you will become inattentive.
Do: Always transport your cat in the car in a secure cat carrier. You fasten this with the seat belt or take someone with you to hold the basket while driving. It is important that your cat does not associate anything negative with the transport box. It is best if you have already accustomed your living room lion to the box. Treats and a cozy blanket inside are recommended.
In the Waiting Room
Don’t: The waiting room can sometimes be more stressful than the treatment room. There are other animals crouching there that are probably not exactly relaxed and especially dogs that your kitty may be afraid of and at worst there is a tense and at the same time boring atmosphere. Therefore, never let your cat out of its box – it could panic, for example, or even get into a fight with conspecifics, dogs, or other animals.
Do: Ensure a relaxed mood by radiating calm and serenity yourself. Cats have an incredible sense of mood and are adept at responding to it. If you are calm and relaxed yourself, your fur nose will also be more relaxed. The kitty has to stay in her transport box. Tip: Turn this so that your cat is facing you and not the big dog sitting opposite. When your kitty sees that everything is fine with you, they will feel better about themselves.
In the Treatment Room
Don’t: Don’t just give your cat to a staff member for treatment. If you leave your velvet paw alone with strangers, she will certainly be very scared. Also, if you go along, don’t feel sorry for your “crying” cat, as this will increase fear. Compassion and encouragement confirm your kitty’s fears that something is wrong and danger is imminent, even if you seem worried.
Do: Be calm and confident in the treatment room, just behave normally, like you always do. Your cat should always feel that you are with her and that all is well. Depending on what the vet is doing, you can also actively help and, for example, hold or fix the patient. A relaxed general appearance is a be-all and end-all, especially during the examination and treatment.