Pet Talk: Make That Car Carrier Comfy

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Q: I was wondering if you have any ideas for getting our cat into his carrier more easily when it’s time to go to the vet.

A: Unfortunately you are not alone with trying to get your cat into his carrier without a fuss. Even mild-mannered house cats can become all nails and teeth when trying to get them into a carrier. Many cats have only bad associations with their carrier. They are captured once a year, put into a plastic box, then into a noisy terrifying vehicle and end up at the veterinarian’s for their annual checkup. Amazingly, even these once-a-year felines have a surprisingly good memory and when the carrier comes out of storage they will disappear.

Recently there was a veterinary industry mega-study that concluded that even though cats significantly outnumber dogs in the United States, they are much less likely to see a vet unless they’re on death’s doorstep.

The reason for this comes down to a simple thing: transportation. It is important to visit the vet for preventive health care to avoid a delayed diagnosis of disease, but getting a cat inside a carrier is a huge stumbling block for many pet owners.

So what’s an owner to do?

First, be sure you have the right size carrier for your cat. It should have enough space for your cat to stand without crouching, turn around in and lie down easily. Cats like cozy spaces, so try not to get one with any more room than necessary. The coziness makes them feel secure.

Adequate ventilation is a must for any pet carrier, with openings on at least three sides.

I would recommend one of the hard plastic carriers as they’re sturdy, durable and easy to clean. Be sure to choose one that opens from the top as well as the front and can also be taken apart in the middle.

Even though a soft-sided carrier is lightweight and easier to tote, it should only be used for cats that are good, calm travelers. If your cat were to become extremely agitated he could tear out the nylon mesh ventilation panels or claw to get through the zipper material.

The way to make your cat used to the carrier is by making it a piece of their everyday lives. Prop the door open or take it off and put a comfy blanket or cat bed inside and leave it on the floor somewhere so your feline can come and go as he pleases. Be sure to toss a few treats inside, some favorite toys or catnip so he associates going inside with something positive. Replenish the supply every few days.

By doing this, your cat should grow to think of his carrier as a safe place. Don’t be surprised to find him napping in it. When it’s time for a vet visit toss a few treats in the carrier and hopefully he will enter happily.

If you are having a problem getting him in, take the carrier and the cat to a room with no hiding spots, like the bathroom. Pick him up and place him in through the top. If there is no top opening you can stand the carrier on its back side, pick your feline up under the front legs and gently lower him in tail first. If he is making a fuss, to avoid getting hurt, wrap him in a towel like a burrito with his face showing and place him in.

Hope this helps because veterinarian checkups are important for your cat’s well being.

Sally Salopek is the owner and operator of Attend-A-Pet pet sitting services in northern Door County. She has also worked professionally with animals in health care, pet grooming, training, wildlife rehab and rescue. Send your pet-related questions to her at [email protected].