How to Get a Scared Cat Into a Carrier

Cats are creatures of habit. If your cat is not used to going into his carrier, he is not going to want to go. Forcing the issue by trying to trick him, shove him or otherwise coerce him into the carrier will only result in a scratched up arm and a ticked off kitty. If you want to get your cat into the carrier, you have to establish a routine ahead of time that makes him feel comfortable in an enclosed space.

Things You'll Need

  • Soap
  • Shirt
  • Cat treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wash the carrier thoroughly. Lingering smells may have bad associations for the cat, making him not want to go into the carrier, particularly if he is an easily scared cat.

    • 2

      Place an item of your clothing such as a shirt inside the cat carrier. If you have a good relationship with your cat, he probably likes your smell. This will make it easier to get your cat into the carrier if it smells like you.

    • 3

      Place cat treats into the cat carrier at a particular time of day every day. Stand near enough to close the door when the cat goes in. This will make the cat carrier part of your cat's routine.

    • 4

      Allow your pet to climb into the cat carrier on his own when you want to transport him. When he does, walk up and gently closed the door. You're much less likely to end up with a scared cat on your hands if you act like everything is normal.

    • 5

      Pick up the carrier gently. Suddenly jerking it can scare the cat, making it less likely he will go into the carrier in the future.