Ask a Vet with Dr. Sam: Help! My cat does not like his carrier.

Help! My cat does not like his carrier. Is there anything I can do to get him to be more comfortable getting in his carrier and traveling? It’s really tough to get him to the vet on time!

It’s tough when your cat doesn’t like their carrier! Since carriers provide safety for both you and your cat during transport, it’s beneficial to work on making traveling safe, rewarding and fun.

There are lots of different things you can try to make your cat feel more comfortable in his carrier and in the car. Consider a large, top-loading carrier if your cat isn’t a fan of small, confined spaces. Carriers should be sturdy, secure and stable. Some cats like to see out, while others are more comfortable being covered. Hard, plastic carriers are great because they come apart easily and are easy to clean.

Try leaving your carrier out in a familiar, safe location, with the carrier door open, so your cat can explore it if he’d like. You can put a cozy blanket inside along with a catnip toy or even a cat treat. Try and make it a nice place to visit!

Some cats do like safe, partially enclosed spaces so if the carrier is in a place where your cat enjoys hanging out, they may start to use it as a house or bed and begin to feel more comfortable with it. Make sure it’s in a location you can access easily too. The best place isn’t always on the floor (cats do like elevated surfaces). If you leave your cat’s carrier in an elevated location, be sure it’s stable and not at risk of tipping.

If your cat still isn’t going inside, try taking the top off the cat carrier and leaving the bottom with an item that has a familiar scent (one of your cat’s blankets, one of your shirts, etc.) Keep the bedding with the carrier and use it next time you need to transport the cat.

For playful cats, sometimes a wand toy or laser pointer leading right into the carrier does the trick. Cats will work for food or whatever is rewarding to them. When your cat enters the carrier, be sure to offer praise (timing is critical). When your carrier is comfortable with the carrier, you can try closing the door for short periods of time and again rewarding your cat.

This process can take several weeks, especially if your cat is very fearful and has had unpleasant experiences in the past. Always remain calm and never force your cat.

Cats are creatures of habit and traveling can be stressful for them. Many dislike the noise and motion of the car, not to mention the places they end up (the dreaded vet’s office)! You can help your cat learn that riding in the car is okay by bringing your cat on short rides that end up back at home.

Following the above tips will help ease your cat’s anxiety and make car rides more enjoyable for everyone involved. Happy travels!

Do you have a question for the vet? We want to hear it! Email questions to steph@mrfrs.org.