Most cats love boxes, so why is it such a struggle to get them into a cat carrier when it’s time for a vet visit?

The answer is simple: your cat associates the carrier with travelling to strange places - usually the vet clinic or boarding facility. For many cats, the carrier spends most of its life gathering dust in the garage or tucked away in a cupboard until it suddenly reappears for an appointment.

With my mobile vet service, your cat won’t need to travel as often, but there will still be times they need to go into a clinic for tests or surgery. Here’s how to make the carrier less stressful and help vet visits go smoothly.

How to Get Your Cat Comfortable with Their Carrier

The best time to start training your cat to accept the carrier is when they are a kitten, but older cats can learn too. Here’s how:

• Keep the carrier out all the time. Don’t hide it away. Place it in a room your cat spends a lot of time in so it becomes a normal part of their environment.

• Remove the door (if possible). This prevents accidental trapping and allows your cat to explore it freely.

• Add familiar bedding. Place a blanket or towel with your cat’s scent inside the carrier. Spraying it with Feliway® can also help reduce anxiety.

• Reward curiosity. Give treats if your cat goes near or inside the carrier. Toss treats into the carrier to encourage exploration.

• Play nearby. Use wand toys or play sessions to get your cat interacting with the carrier in a positive way.

Consistency is key. It may take several weeks, but with patience and rewards, your cat will begin to see the carrier as a safe resting spot rather than a trap.

What If You Need to Get Your Cat to the Vet Quickly?

Sometimes emergencies happen, and you don’t have weeks to prepare. Here’s how to safely get a reluctant cat into the carrier:

1. Confine your cat first. Close them in a small room like a laundry or bathroom to limit hiding spots.

2. Prepare the carrier. Line it with absorbent bedding and spray it with Feliway®.

3. Try gentle coaxing. Use treats, toys, or favourite foods (it doesn’t always work, but it’s worth trying).

4. Use top-loading carriers if possible. Cradle your cat with all four legs tucked under and gently place them inside, then secure the lid.

5. Wrap in a towel if needed. For stressed or aggressive cats, wrap them snugly (like a "kitty burrito"), then place them in the carrier.

6. For front-opening carriers: Place your cat in backwards, supporting their legs, or use the towel-wrap method.

Always stay calm and move swiftly to reduce stress for both you and your cat.

Making a 'kitty burrito' – a gentle towel wrap technique to help safely and calmly get your cat into their carrier.

Choosing the Best Cat Carrier

Not all cat carriers are created equal. Look for one that:

• Opens from the top and front, or separates in the middle. This allows vets to examine your cat in the bottom half without forcing them out.

• Is sturdy and stable. A well-made carrier is essential for safety.

• Fits your cat comfortably. Your cat should be able to stand up and turn around, but not slide around excessively.

• Has absorbent lining. Puppy pads, towels, or newspaper are great options for accidents.

When travelling, secure the carrier with a seatbelt or place it on the floor behind the front seats. Covering it with a towel or blanket can help your cat feel safer, especially when walking to and from the car.

Final Thoughts

Helping your cat feel comfortable with their carrier takes time and patience, but it can make vet visits far less stressful for both of you. Start early, use rewards, and always keep interactions positive.

As a mobile vet, I reduce the need for carrier travel, but when it’s unavoidable, these tips will make the experience much easier on your cat.

Click here to Subscribe to Dr Terri's Newsletter