Cats at Home
Vet Visits - How to make them easier
- Most cats disappear as soon as they see the carrier.
- Top Tips
- Leave the carrier out in the house at all times, so the cat gets used to it, make it more appealing by putting a cosy blanket and some titbits inside. Spray Feliway inside carrier at least ½ hour before vet visit www.feliway.com/gb
- Loading your cat into carrier
- Frontloading carriers: place the carrier on a table, reverse cat into carrier avoiding the cat 'putting brakes on' going headfirst!
- Top Loading carriers: generally easier to use.
- Avoid using any cardboard boxes to transport your cat and they tend to 'break out' of them in the car or waiting room.
- Once in the car, cover the carrier with a blanket as this will subdue and calm the cat. Also try and avoid sitting in traffic, prolonging the journey time.
- Once at the vets, use any 'cat only' waiting rooms, avoiding dogs or position yourself as far away as possible. Place your cat carrier off the ground on a chair or a higher place, this will reduce stress while waiting.
Common emergencies seen with cats:
- RTA (Road Traffic Accident)
- Blocked bladder-mainly seen in male cats
- Poisoning-could be due to toxins ingested ie slug pellets/antifreeze/insecticides www.fabcats.org
- First of all do not panic, remain calm.
- Contact your Vet's practice and get advice if they are closed an answer machine will have the emergency vet's number.
- If you are not registered at a Vets, have a look at the Find a Vet Practice website
- Alternatively contact the 24 hr helpline manned by Qualified Veterinary Nurses Vetfone