Making Feline Visits Less Stressful

The Collaborative Vet Podcast - Michael Dr.T Tokiwa

To make vet visits easier for cats, consider choosing a feline-friendly certified vet, as they specialize in gentle handling and environments that suit a cat’s needs, like quieter waiting rooms and cat-specific techniques. Stay calm, as your cat senses your energy, so relax before the visit with calming music or breathing exercises. Practice short car rides to reduce stress and break the association of car trips with vet visits. Use pheromone sprays like Feliway to soothe your cat, and bring a familiar item, like a blanket, for comfort. Keep the carrier cozy and familiar by leaving it out at home with treats, and reward your cat with toys and treats before, during, and after the visit. If anxiety is a major issue, ask your vet about medications like gabapentin to help make the experience smoother.