Benefits of Cat Carriers
You know what it is like when you need to take “Kitty” to the vet - Kitty will get stressed.
Kitty will probably struggle, scratch and screech at the thought of what might lie ahead and this could be because he doesn’t like the vet, doesn’t like the journey in the car and can’t sit on your knee comfortably for too long!
The ideal solution is a Cat Carrier - but which one?
- Consider whether a hard shell or a soft shell would be more suitable. If you will be holding the cat carrier all the way to the vet you may want to consider a soft shell, but if the carrier will be sitting on the back seat of the keeping Kitty contained, then a hard shell may be better as Kitty will not be able to knock it over
- Ensure that the cat carrier is large enough for Kitty to lie down comfortably, stand up and turn around but not too big so that he could be thrown around inside it
- Make sure that Kitty can see out
- Make sure that the carrier has adequate ventilation
- Choose a cat carrier that can be easily cleaned inside and out
- A waterproof base is a good idea as timid cats can have “accidents” when stressed
- Do you want to carry the carrier in your arms or do you prefer shoulder straps? -
- This may depend upon the weight and size of Kitty
Other points worth considering
- Would you want to take Kitty on an aeroplane? If so, make sure the one you choose allows for this.
- Can you strap the carrier into your car or will it have to sit on the floor?
- Consider where the carrier opens (top, front or side). This can make or break your efforts to get Kitty into the carrier!
Making the Cat Carrier “Kitty Friendly”
- Place a favourite piece of bedding in the bottom of the carrier until Kitty gets used to using it
- Try a favourite toy or catnip to lure him gently into the carrier
- Remember that it is always easier to lead a cat into a carrier backwards as their hind legs have more trouble resisting.
