The toughest job for cat owners in Whetstone
April 14, 2019
How to persuade your cat into its carrier
Getting a cat into its carrier is probably the one of the most taxing experiences a pet owner from Whetstone will endure. Cats are creatures of habits, and most develop fear or anxiety associated with a carrier from a young age. Add a dislike of being taken away from its natural environment and you have a classic case of ‘won’t budge.’
Did you know: a cat’s sense of smell is about 14 times more sensitive than ours? Make your carrier smell more familiar by cleaning it thoroughly. Rinse it well with hot water and don’t use cleaning products – cats aren’t fans.
Cat carrier tips from head nurse Justina
- Get the box out in advance so your cat can explore it within a comfortable and familiar environment
- Place items such as towels and clothing inside to give it a familiar smell
- Pop a few treats in to give it a positive association
- Manoeuvre your cat in backwards
- Cover the carrier so your kitty doesn’t get motion sickness
- Avoid placing it on the ground when there are dogs about
- Avoid feeding your cat for at least an hour before travel to reduce sickness
Next steps
If your cat suffers from a great deal of anxiety, it might be worth getting a pheromone diffuser; you can place this in the house before attempting to get your cat in its carrier. This will reduce your cat’s anxiety and create a calming environment, making your job a lot easier.
Have questions about travelling with your cat or pheromones? Get in touch and we’ll be happy to advise.