Preparing Your Cat for the Vet

Steve & Hong-An San Miguel
Jul 28
2 min read

A Calm, Fear-Free® Approach That Starts at Home

Vet visits don’t have to be stressful—for you or your cat.

If your cat hides or panics when the carrier appears, you’re not alone. With a few small adjustments at home, you can make vet visits smoother and more comfortable.

This guide offers simple, proven steps to help your cat feel secure before, during, and after their appointment.

Step 1: Normalize the Carrier

Build Familiarity and Positive Associations

Most cats only see the carrier before a stressful event. Change that pattern:

Leave the carrier out in a familiar space year-round
Add a soft blanket or towel with your cat’s scent
Occasionally toss in toys or treats
Spray the inside with feline pheromones (e.g., Feliway®)

Gradually condition your cat:

Close the carrier door briefly while they’re resting inside
Practice lifting and carrying it a short distance
Take brief car rides to reduce travel anxiety

These small steps help your cat view the carrier as a safe, familiar space.

Step 2: Provide Additional Support

For Cats with Higher Stress Levels

If your cat remains anxious despite training, consider additional support:

Use calming sprays or plug-ins around the carrier and travel area
Ask your vet about natural calming supplements
In some cases, your vet may recommend medication such as gabapentin

Always consult your veterinarian before using supplements or medications.

Step 3: Time Meals Strategically

Helps with Treat Motivation and Motion Comfort

Avoid feeding a full meal right before the visit. A slightly hungry cat is more likely to accept treats at the clinic and less likely to experience motion-related nausea.

Step 4: Travel Calmly

Keep Movement and Noise to a Minimum

Help your cat feel secure in transit:

Place the carrier on the car floor behind the passenger seat
Cover it with a lightweight cloth to reduce visual stimulation
Avoid loud noises—drive quietly or play soft music

These changes can reduce your cat’s stress during the ride.

Step 5: Share Key Information with the Vet

Help the Team Understand Your Cat’s Needs

Before the visit, prepare a short summary of:

Behavior or health changes
Current medications and dosages
Shifts in appetite, water intake, or litter habits

If someone else is transporting your cat, make sure they have this information and can reach you if neGuides.

Our Fear Free® Promise

At Pet Sitting 4 Comfort® (PS4C), we follow Fear Free® techniques in every visit. From routine care to enrichment, our focus is reducing stress and building positive associations for your pets.

Need help preparing your cat for travel or an upcoming exam?We’re here to support you.