Guide to Cat Carrier and Travel Training:

by Dr Esmaré van der Walt, EberVet Pet Clinic

Cat carrier and travel training can be a test of patience but can also be a bonding experience for you and your feline companion. Taking your cat to the vet is essential for maintaining their health. Kittens need vaccinations, and as they grow older, cats require annual or semi-annual vet visits for early disease detection. However, these visits can be stressful for both you and your cat. Cats are notorious for being control freaks and poor travellers, leading some owners to delay vet visits until absolutely necessary. This delay, combined with a cat’s ability to hide symptoms, often results in vets seeing cats only when they are very ill. The good news is that early carrier training and acclimating your cat to car travel can significantly reduce stress.

Common Cat Stressors During Vet Visits

1. Discomfort, Pain, or Nausea: Cats may already feel unwell.

2. Lack of Control: Being confined in a carrier and travelling in a car.

3. Change in Routine: Disruption of their usual environment.

4. Unfamiliar Sights and Sounds: New surroundings and noises.

5. Inability to Escape: Leading to frustration.

6. Previous Negative Experiences: Past unpleasant vet visits.

7. Loud, Sudden Noises: Startling sounds during travel.

8. New Social Experiences: Encountering unfamiliar animals, particularly dogs.

Positive Associations and Cat Carrier Training

Cats form positive associations, such as the sound of a food tin opening signaling mealtime. Unfortunately, they can also develop negative associations. Therefore, it’s crucial to focus on creating positive experiences.

Cats Love Boxes

Predated back to the wild! They are unable to burrow, so they will look for enclosed spaces to make them feel safe. They like to hide and perch, so leave the carrier in an area the cat likes to frequent. Don’t keep it in the garage or unused shower.

Choosing the Right Cat Carrier

–Sturdy and Easy to Clean: Preferably made of plastic.

– Removable Top: For easy access.

– Roof Entry: Large enough for comfortable entry.

– Side Slats: For ventilation and feeding treats.

– Grated Door: Allows the cat to see out.

– Secure Lock: To keep the cat safe.

– Spacious Interior: Enough to place a non-slip rubber mat and bedding.

Step-by-Step Cat Carrier Training

1. Introduce a Security Blanket: Start with a blanket your cat is familiar with.

2. Move Blanket to Bottom Half of Carrier: Once the cat is comfortable with the blanket.

3. Add Carrier Top and Open Door: Gradually get the cat used to the carrier.

4. Close the Carrier Door: Let the cat settle inside for longer periods.

5. Start Moving the Carrier Gently: Keep it close to your body to avoid unnecessary swinging.

Acclimating Your Cat to Car Travel

Cats are territorial and prefer to explore on their own terms. Car travel can overwhelm them due to sensory overload:

– Movement: Horizontal, vertical, and vibrations.

– Visual: New surroundings inside and outside the car.

– Sounds: Engine, traffic, wipers, and music.

– Smells: New car smell, dog odours, and air fresheners.

Steps for Travel Training

1. Take the Carrier Outside: Let the cat associate the outdoors with positive experiences.

2. Partially Cover the Carrier: Reduce visual stimuli.

3. Avoid Travelling with Dogs: To minimise stress.

4. Secure the Carrier with a Seatbelt: For safety.

Gradual Acclimation for Travel

1. Place Carrier in the Car with Engine Off: Let the cat get used to the car’s interior.

2. Use Wipers and Indicators: Familiarise the cat with car noises.

3. Start the Engine without Moving: Get the cat accustomed to the sound.

4. Short Journeys: Begin with very brief trips.

Additional Tips for Travel Training

– Reward Calm Behaviour: Use treats and praise.

– Use Pheromones: In spray or plug-in form, applied 15 minutes before travel.

– Consult Your Vet: For medication if your cat suffers from travel sickness or severe anxiety.

After the Vet Visit

Upon returning home, your cat might smell different, have shaved areas, or wear a bandage. Don’t overwhelm them with attention. Keep them in a separate room to readjust. Allow supervised contact with other animals after a few hours, watching for signs of aggression.

Final Thoughts from Dr van der Walt

Remember, every cat is an individual. Focus on creating as many positive experiences as possible, but be realistic—you can’t eliminate all negative experiences. Just do your best to make vet visits and travel as stress-free as possible for your feline friend