Does your cat have a veterinary visit coming up? Here are some tips to make the visit go as smoothly as possible for both you and your pet!
Prepare.
- Practice touching your cats paws, looking in their eyes, and at their teeth. Reward them with treats as you do this so they are used to being touched in these places. Go slowly and take lots of breaks.
- If your cat tends to be anxious or has shown anxiety or aggression at previous visits, talk to your veterinarian about using an anti-anxiety medication prior to the visit.
It is helpful to get your cat used to their kennel before going to the vet.
- Keep the kennel in a quiet spot in your home where the cat will visit
- Feed meals or place treats in the kennel
- Reward the cat with treats when it voluntarily enters the kennel
- Once comfortable in the kennel with the door open, sstart closing the door for a moment
- Gradually increase the time the door is closed
- Ensure the cat is always comfortable and provide lots of treats so it is a positive experience
- If you do not have a kennel, you can use a ventilated duffle bag, cardboard box with holes or a plastic bin with holes.
What to bring.
- Vaccine and medical record
- Any medications or supplements your pet is currently taking
- The name of the food and amount (in grams or cups) you are feeding daily
- Your cats favourite treats
- Bring your cat in a kennel or other carrier to the veterinarian
- Any concerns or questions you have for the veterinarian
What to expect:
- First, the vet will ask you a series of questions to get to know your pet better
- Next, the vet will do a physical exam to determine if there are any abnormalities in different organ systems
- The vet may recommend other tests, lie blood work or x-rays, depending on your concerns and their physical exam
- They may give vaccines if they are due
- They may prescribe medications or make recommendations to improve or maintain your cats health