Tips for Getting a Cat in a Carrier

Choosing a Carrier

• Not every cat carrier is the same, and selecting the best one for your cat is essential.

  Petplace.com states: "Cats unhappy about their surroundings in a car or other moving vehicle may howl, yowl, experience stress and be generally miserable. If you must take your cat to the veterinarian, the stress experienced from the trip may raise his pulse and breathing rate, and may even cause exaggerated glucose (sugar) readings on his blood tests."

  This means choosing the best carrier for your best friend is crucial for her health. Petplace.com identifies four important features to consider when selecting a carrier: ventilation, security, access and construction.

  You need sufficient airflow because your cat's breathing rate will rise from the stress. Carriers with ventilation on at least three sides are best.

  A secure locking system, such as a combination lock or pinch lock, will ensure that your cat will be safe, especially if traveling in an airplane cargo hold.

  Cats tend to be more comfortable getting into their carriers if you can put them into it from the top, feet first. Trying to push them into a carrier head-first increases their stress.

  Carriers come with hard sides or soft sides, and there are benefits to both. Soft-sided carriers provide more cushion if jarred and are lighter to carrier, but they do not provide the best ventilation. Hard-sided carriers are easier to clean if a cat has an accident, but they are also larger and heavier. In general, soft-sided carrier are better for shorter trips, such as to the vet.

Placing Your Cat In an Carrier

• Placing your cat in a carrier and ensuring his comfort is easier if he is used to it. set up and open the carrier up in your home before the trip so your cat can go in it and feel comfortable inside.

  Put the carrier in a room where your cat usually does not spend a lot of time. This will make him more likely to go inside and inspect the new surroundings. After he goes inside, you can close it for a short time.

  You also can entice you cat into the carrieer with food. In the time leading up to a trip, serve her meals inside it to get her to associate the carrier with positive things. On the day of a trip, place a treat in the carrier after you put her in.

  Put a soft and warm blanket or towel on the bottom of the carrier to let your cat get comfortable.