Health Topics

Tips on how to transport your cat to the veterinary hospital calmly and comfortably.

(This article was originally published in the "One of These Cats is Sick" brochure by Merial, makers of Purevax.)

• Look for a carrier with proper ventilation, made of sturdy plastic, with a front door and, ideally, with a top that can be lifted off.
• Place the open carrier in an undisturbed area where your cat likes to spend time. With time, your cat will get used to it.
• Place a piece of clothing with your scent in the carrier. Include soft bedding, their favorite treats, or familiar toys in the carrier.
• Gently rub a cloth around your cat's face. With the scented cloth, rub it on your cat's carrier to make it smell like home.
• To reduce motion sickness, avoid feeding your cat a few hours before the trip.
• After you've placed your cat in the carrier, place a towel over the carrier. This should help calm your cat.
• In the car, drive smoothly, reduce noise (music, honking, etc.). Instead, talk to your cat, as your voice can be reassuring. A cat's sense of hearing is 4 times sharper than ours.
• While in the hospital waiting room, keep the towel on the carrier and sit as far away as possible from dogs.
• After returning home (if other cats are around), take a cloth and rub the other cats. Then rub the returning cat with the same cloth. This can reduce conflicts.
• Don't worry if your cat seems unhappy after their visit to the hospital. The minor stress experienced is not harmful to your cat's health or to your relationship with him or her.

Remember, regular visits to the veterinary hospital have been proven to extend the life and well-being of our feline friends. You'll feel better, and so will your fun, affectionate loving cat.