How to put a cat into a carrier
Putting a cat in a carrier or bag can be a real challenge! The easiest way is to get cats used to the carrier from a young age so that they can be easily transported when visiting the vet or traveling... If this is not possible, there are little tricks to make it easier to place them in the carrier.
How do I choose a carrier?
First of all, it is important to choose a carrier or a bag in which your cat will feel comfortable. If you choose a carrier that is too small, not comfortable... it will be very difficult to get your cat used to it.
The space offered to your cat must be large enough: it must be able to stand up and turn around easily. Your cat should enter diagonally from the tip of its nose to the tip of its tail.
You also need to ensure your cat is as comfortable as possible: install a blanket on the bottom so your cat can sleep comfortably.
Carrying cases with removable lids are great for veterinary visits. They allow access to the animal without having to remove it from the crate.
How to get a cat used to a carrier?
In order to easily put a cat in a carrier, it is best to get it used to it from a young age. It is possible to get an adult cat used to sleeping in a carrier, but it will probably take longer than for a kitten.
You can install the open carrier in the living room, for example (at first it is advisable to remove the lid of the carrier). Place blankets inside the cage and try to lure your cat with toys, treats, etc. If your cat settles in, praise and reward it well. The goal is to have him associate the carrier with something positive.
You can add an extra step by putting the blankets in the living room and then placing them in the open and closed carrier.
Throughout this period of habituation, you can give your cat an anti-stress food supplement. You can spray the carrier with a soothing cat spray (pheromone or soothing essential oils) to make your cat feel comfortable and comfortable.
It may take a few weeks to a few months for your cat to become accustomed to the carrier, and during this time you should avoid forcing your cat into the carrier.
If your cat gets used to lying in the carrier, it will be easy to put her in it when you need to go on a trip or visit the vet. You can simply call him by offering him some food in the cage, and he'll probably go in on his own.
What if the cat still refuses to get into the carrier?
If you have to transport your cat and the habituation has not been done or is not complete, then you can first try to get it to go inside by placing some food inside.
If that doesn't work, you can place the cage upright and try to get your cat in by putting the hindquarters in first. This helps reduce stress by not forcing the cat to enter the crate head first.
In some cases, it is very difficult to place cats in a carrier. In these cases, it is advisable to contact the pet's veterinarian to let them know. There are medications available to sedate animals for transport with a veterinary prescription. Your veterinarian will be able to suggest the most appropriate solution for transporting your cat and will prescribe a sedative if needed.
