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Kitten 101: How To Avoid Stress During Trips To The Veterinarian For Cat Vaccinations

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If you've recently welcomed a kitten into your family, there are a few important things to consider regarding your new family member's health. It's important for felines to get vaccinations. However, trips to the veterinarian's office for cat vaccinations can cause your feline companion to be stressed.

Since most veterinarians prefer that you take felines to their offices in a pet carrier, this presents a problem when cats associate pet carriers and car rides with the veterinarian's office where they get poked and prodded. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to get your kitten more comfortable with being in a pet carrier and in a car. Here are a few ideas that can help your kitten develop good habits that will make trips to the veterinarian less stressful for both of you.

Use the Pet Carrier Often

The last thing you want is for your kitten to associate the carrier with the veterinarian's office. When they do this, as they get older they will fight you while you try to get them into the carrier, which could leave you with scratches if your cat is not declawed, and your cat with an upset stomach due to the stress.

Instead, get your kitten to familiarize the pet carrier with joyful experiences as well, such as a trip to a pet store for a toy or a treat. Another thing you can do is to keep the pet carrier open and available for your kitten to wander into and explore on their own. Keep a few toys and treats in the carrier, as well as a soft blanket to make them comfortable.

Take Your Kitten for Car Rides

Felines generally do not like car rides, especially if they aren't used to them. Take your kitten for rides in the car often, even if it's just to drive around the block a few times. After several car rides, your kitten will not associate car rides with trips to the veterinarian's office.

While driving, reassure your kitten by speaking to it in a soft, gentle voice--even if they are hissing or meowing at the top of their lungs. Do not attempt to take your feline out of the pet carrier while it is in the vehicle, especially if it is upset. You may find it too difficult to return them to the pet carrier so your hands can be free to drive.

Contact a clinic like Cat Care Clinic for more help.


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