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Fear Free for Cats

Bringing Your Cat to Our Hospital - Taking the “Pet” out of Petrified

A Gray Cat Lying in a Cardboard Box

Carriers

• The optimal crate for cats is a top-removal model with two exits – one at the front and one on top.

• Make sure you have comfortable bedding in the crate to make your cat feel safe and relaxed.

• Keep your crate available at all times as part of your cat’s furniture, perhaps with the top off so they will use it as a bed at times. This should be encouraged to be a “den” in a comfortable area they enjoy.

• Give treats & provide meals in or near the crate to make it more appealing. You may have to start their feeding near the crate, and gradually work their way into the crate itself.

Let's Hit the Road!

Prior to the Visit

• Do not feed your cat a full meal before coming. If your cat is hungry they will be more apt to take offered treats, which can help reduce stress.

• If the kitty has any dietary indiscretions or preferences, bring their favorite treats and foods. If they enjoy being brushed, or have a favorite toy bring those as well. Familiarity can be soothing.

• If your cat has experienced previous anxiety or fearful behaviour during a veterinary visit, contact us a few days prior to your visit, or inform one of our team members when scheduling an appointment, and inquire whether an anti-anxiety medication may help your feline to be more relaxed.

Going For a Ride

• Distract your pet with calming music. Such as soft, classical music during the drive. This will drown out road noise that can be nerve-wracking.

• Calming pheromone spray or wipes applied to the carrier or bedding can help your kitty have a more comfortable car ride.

• Try to have the cat-carrier seat level on a car seat. Add a light towel draped over the sides of the crate to eliminate distractions and stress.

• Use a seat belt to secure the crate in place so it does not slide around on corners or sudden stops.

Carrying the Crate

• Carry the crate with both hands, keeping it level (do not allow it to swing or hold it by the handle.)

• When setting the crate down, avoid placing on the floor. Using countertops or chairs instead is preferred, as cats like to be on perches with the ability to look around safely.

• Do not encourage dogs that may be in our reception area to come up and sniff the crate, as that is very scary for some cats.

Going into the Exam Room

Owner Holding a Gray Cat at Home
  • Let your cat roam and “own” the room. Offer treats, calm brushing, or favoritepetting places to soothe them. Please let us know if calming music helps relax your pet.

  • We will perform the exam where your cat is most comfortable. For added comfort, our tables have a non-slip mat that is not cold to the touch and we use pheromone-sprayed towels to soothe cats and allow them to “hide” under them if they wish.

  • If your cat gets too stressed, a sedative, an anti-anxiety medication, or even rescheduling the appointment is sometimes best. Repeated, negative experiences can cause undue stress and make a cat more upset for their next visit.

  • When we have completed the exam, we will go over our findings with you. We will also use that time to reward your pet with treats, toys, or praise and petting so they have lasting, great memories.