If you own a shy cat, you might be reluctant to take them to the vet for yearly checkups. This can seem like a scarring event for your cat, making pet owners nervous. Fears of your cat escaping, having anxiety, or being aggressive to the veterinarian can all cause even the best pet owner to avoid veterinary care. Here are four ways that you can get over your fears and get your cat ready for the vet.
1. Put in Some Practice With Your Cat
While some cats are always going to be scared or shy, cats thrive on routine and familiarity. If you can do some practice runs when it come to leaving the house, this can calm you and your cat's nerves. Practice putting your cat in the carrier and going on car rides throughout the year. Have people over more often so that your cat gets used to other people being around.
2. Meet With a Veterinarian First
Vets should have a way with animals in order to make you and your cat feel safe. If you can visit the veterinarian's office first, you can get a vibe for the office and the environment. You can assess the waiting room and the front desk staff, and meet with the vet. If you feel safe and comfortable, chances are your cat will too.
3. Make a Game Plan With Your Vet
If you are worried that your cat may bite or scratch the vet, make sure that they know this. There are techniques that the vet's office can do to calm your cat. They might suggest calming supplements ahead of time or pheromone sprays during the visit to destress your cat. There are restraining techniques that will make shots and exams safer. If your vet has experience with feral or scared cats, they will be ready for your cat.
4. Schedule a House Call
If all else fails, you may be able to find a vet that can come to you. If you can't get over having your cat leave the home, your cat can be seen in a safe environment and have routine check-ups administered. Just remember that if your cat does need acute medical attention in the future, a vet's visit will need to happen.
Veterinary care needs to be a part of your cat's life so it is up to you to provide this for your cat. Avoiding check-ups for your cats can lead to bigger issues down the road so it is important to overcome your own fears. You might even discover that you are more worried than your cat and they will surprise you by being a model patient. For more tips, contact a company like Northside Emergency Pet Clinic.
Share28 August 2015
Animal emergencies happen quite often, and I have seen a lot of different injuries at the veterinary office I work at. Vehicle incidents, falls, and fights with other animals can all cause these injuries. Some of the most surprising emergencies I see though, are when pets eat substances that make them ill. Dogs and cats can both get sick by ingesting flowers, essential oils, and certain types of food items that humans eat. I even see some animals that become ill when they eat shoes, towels, and their own toys. I know that the vast majority of pet owners love their animals dearly. Most medical emergencies are purely accidental. You can easily save your precious feline or canine from harm as long as you know how the most common injuries occur. The articles posted here can help you with this, so start reading to make sure your pet remains healthy.