Does your cat become uneasy when they go to the veterinarian? You’re not alone. According to a study conducted by Bayer HealthCare Partners in collaboration with the American Association of Feline Practitioners®, 58% of owners reported that their cats hated going to the vet. The study found that these owners often skipped annual check-ups because they didn’t want to subject their pets to the stress of being placed in a carrier and transported to the clinic.

However, it’s important that your cat keep appointments at least once a year for a wellness exam. Below are five tips for how to make the trip more comfortable: 

• Do Mock Visits at Home: Cats may have reservations about being manually handled during veterinarian exams. While at home, get into the habit of giving your pet regular self-checks. This will help them get used to the process, as well as supply an opportunity to spot anything suspicious early on.
• Make the Cat Carrier More Familiar: A major battle for many owners is coercing their furry friend into a carrier. If your cat’s only experiences with their carrier are related to animal clinic visits or major moves, they’re likely to bolt or resist once they see it pulled out. Instead, make the space more familiar by leaving it out in an area of the home. Lay a soft blanket down along with treats to make it an ideal place for naps and building fond associations.
• Play With Them Beforehand: Calm your feline before a vet visit with their favorite activity. Whether that means brushing their fur on the couch, filling a beloved toy with catnip, or playing with a laser pointer, this can significantly reduce stress levels. A calm cat is much more likely to enter a carrier than one that’s caught off-guard.
• Get Them Used to the Car: Cats are creatures of habit and become stressed in unfamiliar situations. Unless you frequently take your pet on road trips, the car likely translates into a trip to the veterinarian. Help disassociate the car with this by regularly taking them on short trips. While it’s possible that your cat will never love being in the car, it might make the experience less of an ordeal for them.   
• Schedule Appointments During Slow Times: The chaos of a busy animal hospital can easily stress a cat out. Try scheduling an appointment during a time when the office isn’t busy. Your cat is likely to enjoy a waiting room that is quiet and free of other animals.

Choosing an experienced veterinarian will also help put felines at ease. Serving the Greater Cincinnati and northern Kentucky areas, Crescent Springs Animal Hospital in Kenton County, KY, is committed to making you and your pet their top priority. Visit their website for a full list of services this animal clinic offers, including wellness exams, pet dental care, spay and neuter services, and more. For additional questions or to schedule an appointment, call (859) 331-6608.