Visiting the vet can be a stressful and scary thing for kittens. The good news is that there are some steps you can take right now with your new little friend to make future visits more pleasant!
Step 1
Carrier Choice
- Enough space to lie down and turn around
- Two openings (e.g., top and side)
- Easily disassembled
- Padded with towel/fabric (old clothing is great!)
Step 2
Carrier Training
- Leave carrier in open location; allow kitten to become familiar with it
(i.e., don’t hide the carrier!) - Feed and play with kitten near carrier
- Spray inside carrier with pheromones (e.g., Feliway) or use your own scent (old clothing)
Step 3
Play the vet!
- While playing, try to touch the feet and ears often so they are less sensitive to vet examinations
- Make the above interaction more positive with treats!
- Learn to recognise subtle behaviours of stress or fear (e.g., flattened ears, wide pupils, crouched stance)
Step 4
Transportation
- Before appointment, gently lure or coax kitten into carrier
- Avoid loud music or talking
- Ensure carrier is in stable position on vehicle (on the floor behind passenger seat is best!)
- Cover carrier with towel to block out visual stimuli
Step 5
At the Vet!
- When walking around with carrier, hold it close to your chest with both hands, like a fragile gift box
- Avoid getting too close to other patients in the waiting room!
- Review and discuss your tactics with a vet
