Top tips for taking your cat to the vet

Many people find bringing their cat in to the vet a stressful experience and, as a result, will put off the exercise altogether. It is for this reason that we don’t get to see your feline friend as often as we should and, unfortunately, it means that many health problems may go undetected.

Thankfully, there are a couple of ways we can help reduce the stress associated with vet visits:

• Feliway pheromone spray can be used in the cat carrier to help your cat to feel more safe and secure. The pheromone spray is the same pheromone cats release when they feel happy and relaxed. We also recommend you spray it on a towel and use this to cover the cat carrier. This may help your cat feel safe and avoid them making eye contact with patients of the canine variety.
• Medication can be dispensed to help your cat feel more relaxed prior to their visit. We just need to have examined your cat within the previous six months – ask us for more information on how we can assist you with this. It is important to have a trial run at home at least 3 days prior to the visit to ensure the correct dose of medication.

Other tips to reduce cat carrier stress:

• Put the cat carrier in a room with your cat a few days before you need to use it.
• Allow your cat to get used to the smell and noise of the carrier.
• Associate the carrier with ‘happy’ things – place food and treats in the carrier.
• Close the door of the carrier while your cat is inside for short periods of time so your cat doesn’t always associate it with vet visits

If you have any questions or concerns about your cat’s veterinary visit you should ask us for advice.

Remember: all cats should be secured in a cat carrier when travelling in the car, not just for their safety but also yours.