World Vet Day: Taking your cat to the vet

World Veterinary Day celebrates the incredible work vets do to keep our pets healthy. Regular vet visits are essential for your cat, but let’s be honest, many cats aren’t fans of the journey. Luckily, a few simple tricks can make vet visits easier for everyone. Here’s how to make vet trips stress-free:

Step 1: Make the Carrier a Safe Space

Cats often associate their carrier with stress. To help, make it familiar and inviting.

• Keep it out at home so they can explore it.
• Add a soft blanket, their favourite toy, or a piece of your clothing.
• Use calming pheromone sprays.
• Reward them with treats for going inside voluntarily.

Step 2: Keep the Journey Calm

Cats thrive on routine, and car rides can be unsettling.

• Secure the carrier in the car – Place it on the floor or secure it with a seatbelt.
• Keep the car quiet – Avoid loud music or sudden noises.
• Talk softly to your cat to reassure them.
• Use a non-slip mat inside the carrier to prevent sliding.

Tip: Some cats feel more comfortable when you cover the carrier with a light blanket.

Step 3: Reduce Waiting Room Anxiety

Vet clinics can be overwhelming with unfamiliar smells and noises.

How to Keep Your Cat Calm While Waiting:

• Keep them in their carrier.
• Place the carrier on a chair or your lap instead of the floor (where they may feel vulnerable).
• Choose a quiet corner away from dogs and other pets.
• Bring a familiar-smelling blanket to help them feel secure.

Tip: Some vet clinics have cat-friendly waiting areas, and some do home visits, so ask in advance if this is available.

Step 4: Help Your Cat During the Exam

Your vet will need to check your cat’s weight, teeth, coat, and overall health, which can be stressful for cats who aren’t used to being handled.

• Offer to be the one to remove them from their carrier.
• Get them used to gentle handling at home.
• Stay calm, cats pick up on your emotions.
• Bring treats to reward good behaviour.

Tip: If your cat gets extremely stressed, talk to your vet about calming supplements, pheromone sprays or sedatives to give before the visit.

Routine Vet Visit Guide:

• Kittens – Every few weeks until vaccinations are complete.
• Adult Cats (1-7 years) – At least once a year for a general health check, ideally every 6 months.
• Senior Cats (7+ years) – Every 6 months to monitor for age-related conditions.

Signs Your Cat Needs an Urgent Vet Visit:

• Sudden weight loss or gain
• Changes in eating or drinking habits
• Lethargy or hiding more than usual
• Vomiting or diarrhoea that lasts more than a day
• Difficulty breathing or limping

Tip: If you’re unsure whether a symptom is serious, call your vet for advice, it’s always better to be safe!

Regular vet visits, good nutrition, and proactive care help your cat live their best life. Making vet visits stress-free ensures they get the care they need.