If you’ve ever tried getting a cat into a carrier, chances are there are one of two results: a cat who goes in without problem or violence. For those that fall into the violence category, I’ve got some good news and some not so good news.
Good news first: It’s possible to get your cat into a carrier without too much trouble. The not so good news, especially if you need to get your cat into a carrier in the near future, is that it may take some time for that to happen. It will be worth the effort, though, because once your cat is used to getting into their carrier, it will be quicker and easier whenever you need to do it. You’ll ultimately save time and stress for human and feline.
Picking The Right Carrier
Before you even think of getting a cat into a carrier, you want to pick the right carrier. Not all carriers are created equal. Features to look for in a good carrier include:
- Multiple ways to get the cat in and out such as a front entrance and a top entrance
- A removable top or a top that opens
- A carrier that is big enough for your cat to have room to move in
- Adequate ventilation
- Removable soft surfaces and ability to clean the carrier
If you plan to travel with your cat, a carrier that is TSA compliant is a good feature to look for, too. Either hard or soft sided carriers can be okay and some carriers come with fancy features.
I have mixed feelings about cat backpacks as the bouncing may disturb some cats so I generally advise against them. However, either soft or hard sided carriers can be a good fit. I’ve heard great things from clients about the Petmate Two Door Kennel. I also recently got a Sleepypod for my dudes. It’s not inexpensive, but it is so worth it. They love napping in it and, unlike other carriers, it’s safety tested.
If Your Cat Already Hates The Carrier
If you already have a carrier and have tried forcing your cat into it, chances are they aren’t a fan of the carrier you have currently. While not a magic solution, sometimes a hard reset works wonders. In other words, consider donating the carrier and replacing it with a new one. Getting a cat into a carrier they don’t have a negative association with is going to be easier than one they already are fearful of.
Normalize The Carrier
Once you have a good carrier picked out, the first step to getting a cat into a carrier is not trying to get them into a carrier.
That sounds odd, but you want to make the carrier boring. Make it a non-event when it comes out because it’s always out in a place your cat can choose to go into it if they’d like. Cats love having choices so this helps give them feel in control of when they in the carrier or not. Make it normal for you to pick up the carrier and move it around. It shouldn’t be unusual for you to fiddle with it or touch it so your cat doesn’t become scared when you do those things.
That doesn’t mean you can’t make the carrier fun! Give your cat some treats near it, play with them near or incorporate their carrier into play, or use catnip to draw them in. If your cat is clicker trained, you can use a pattern game to help them get in and out or have them go to the carrier on cue. Whatever you do, make the carrier a fun, safe place for your cat even when they don’t immediately need to be in it.
Normalize Getting A Cat Into A Carrier
Next, you need to actually work on the process of getting your cat into the carrier. You can gradually get them in with their favorite treats or silver vine, but you want them going in and out by choice. Once they’re in, move the door just a bit. Don’t close it all the way at first, but just move it or touch it. The goal is to do this repeatedly so your cat doesn’t react at all. Gradually add in more door movement until you can eventually close the door.
If your cat reacts during this phase, slow down. The key to the whole process of getting your cat into a carrier is going slow and not making it a fear inducing experience. You may also want to consider trying a pheromone spray. Spray it on a blanket or in the carrier about 10 minutes before you try working on getting your cat into a carrier and see if they feel more comfortable going in.
Once you can close the door, open it after a few moments and see how your cat is doing. Consider giving them a reward for being such a good kitty. After they are fine with the carrier being closed, begin picking up the carrier and moving it around. Start by just picking it up and setting it down gently and then gradually move it across the room.
How You Handle The Carrier Matters
When carrying your cat, be aware of how you are moving the carrier. Even if your carrier has a handle, use both hands to hold the carrier. This keeps the carrier stable so your cat won’t feel like they are trapped in a scary, wobbly cage.
Move your cat between different rooms as your cat shows signs of being relaxed in the carrier. Have something fun waiting when they arrive at their destination like a tasty snack or a food puzzle.
Use The Carrier To Go Fun Places
Once your cat is used to the carrier being moved around your home, start taking them places elsewhere. While the obvious place to take them is the vet, that may not be a place your cat finds exciting or fun. You put in all this hard work and then it may be thrown out the window if they expect they’ll only be poked and prodded when they arrive at their destination.
Instead, bring them somewhere fun. That may be a friend or relative’s house where they can get treats, play fun games, and get a lot of positive attention. If your veterinarian is Fear Free Certified and offers fun or victory visits, you may be able to have your cat go to the vet with the sole purpose of having a good time. No examination needed! If neither are an option, just driving around the block and coming back home to treats, strong cat drugs, or a fun enrichment activity is another great choice.
Getting a cat into a carrier can be an easier task than you’d think, but you have to work with your cat. If you follow these tips and still have trouble, it may be worth working with your veterinarian or a cat behavior professional to come up with an individualized plan.
