Taking my cat to the vet

A visit to the vet can be quite stressful for your cat. How do you make this visit as pleasant as possible for her?

When should I take my cat to the vet?

Don't hesitate if you think something is wrong. Nobody knows your cat better than you. You notice when she behaves differently from normal.

These are some signs that can tell you whether your cat is not feeling well:

Poor appetite
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Coughing, panting, difficulty breathing
Lethargy and sleeping more than usual

You can also visit the vet for your cat's vaccinations or questions about her care.

How do I choose the right vet for my cat?

It is important to find a good vet for your cat. She must suit your needs and you both need to feel comfortable.

When searching for a vet practice, first list which vets are near you. Then ask cat owners in your area which vet they have had good experiences with.

Once you have found a vet, go there on your own first. How do you find the waiting room and the communication? If you are sure of your choice, it is wise to go with your cat for an introduction visit. That way nothing stressful happens during her first visit.

Why is my cat scared of going to the vet?

A waiting room full of other stressed animals, a place where they gave her an unpleasant treatment last time, and your owner also seems stressed. For your cat, there is plenty to dread at the vet. Of course it is all for her own good, but try telling that to your cat.

Moreover, most cats find the journey itself quite stressful. They experience more stress as soon as you put them in a car.

How do I transport my cat to the vet?

Transport your cat in a carrier. This way she is in a safe and familiar environment. How do you make sure the cat is comfortable being transported in it?

Don't only take out the carrier when you're going to the vet.
Place the carrier in a fixed spot in the house where your cat likes to go.
Put a toy or a treat inside.
Close the door occasionally when your cat is inside, then open it again immediately.
Repeat this until your cat no longer minds when the door closes.

How do I make a vet visit more pleasant?

Cats are very intuitive and immediately notice if you behave differently. Therefore behave normally on the day of the visit. Are you nervous about the trip? Make sure you relax.

A few tips to make the vet visit less frightening for your cat: