Need Help Bringing Your Cat to the Vet?
According to the American Humane Society, our feline companions go to the veterinarian about half as often as dogs. The number one reason? Owners say their cats hate going to the vet and they themselves dread the drama. The result is that cats only get vet care when they’re really sick—and often, that illness might have been able to be avoided with preventive care.
There are some things you can do to make taking your cat to the vet easier on you and your pet.
Some tips you might try:
- Take short, practice car rides before the actual appointment, so they’re more familiar with the ride.
- Get your cat used to being handled and picked up with gentle head-to-tail holding, petting, and touching.
- Leave the carrier out and open at home for your cat to smell and investigate. Try putting a favorite blanket or bed inside.
- Use pheromone sprays such as Feliway inside the carrier and on bedding.
- Put a towel over the carrier before going outside.
- If possible, schedule your appointment for less busy times at the hospital
If your freaked-out feline is still super scared, give us a call when you’re on your way and Roseway Veterinary Hospital will do our best to put you and your cat in a room right away to avoid the anxiety of waiting in the lobby. That being said, if your kitty does have to wait in the lobby, we have a separate cat waiting area and offer Feliway-infused blankets to ensure that your cat feels as comfortable as possible before they are seen by one of our many Fear Free Certified staff members.
While it’s true that cats can be low-maintenance pets compared to dogs, they still need regular wellness care including exams, vaccines and preventive medications to stay healthy. So—how long has it been since your cat saw the vet? If it’s been over a year, go online or call us at (971) 252-3154 to set up an appointment today!