What You Need to do for Your Cat’s Visit to the Vet
You’ve made the appointment for your cat to go to the vet, and you need to know what steps to make this an easy visit in Farmington, PA. Whether it’s your first time taking your new friend to the doctor, or the six-month check-up for your elderly family member, there are things you can do to make the visit run smoothly.
Before Your Cat’s Visit To The Vet
Carrier
Before heading out anywhere, you should take the time to get your cat acclimated to their carrier. Make sure it’s the right size for your cat and that it’s comfortable. Keep the door open, or off, depending on the carrier, and put their favorite toy, or treats inside. The process can take time, even months, so make sure that you prepare beforehand.
Documents
If this is a new vet or a new cat, make sure you have any and all documentation for your furry friend. The more information your vet has about your cat’s history, the better. You may have gotten your cat or kitten from a shelter or a friend. Has it had its vaccinations? Were any of the cats around it ill? Has your cat been throwing hairballs more, or peeing outside the litter box? Is it hiding away, not eating, or drinking? Any changes in behavior should be noted so that you make sure your vet has all the information.
The Day Of The Visit To The Vet
Your Behavior
Your cat is in tune with your feelings. It may not seem like they care, but they pick up on your stress, and that stress can transfer. Be calm. Take the following steps to make the visit go smoothly.
Food
You might want to withhold food a few hours before the visit. This can help avoid motion sickness. Make sure to bring some treats to give as a reward or a distraction for some procedures. Place a favorite toy and familiar-smelling clothing or bedding in the carrier to help your cat feel more comfortable, and cover the carrier with a towel to block unfamiliar sights and muffle sounds from your cat.
At The Vet
If your cat is anxious in the waiting area, you can always ask the receptionist if you can go immediately to an examination room, or if an exam room is not ready, you can wait in your car with your cat (with appropriate heating and cooling during extreme weather). Ask them to call you when the exam room is ready for you to enter.
The Examination
Talk to your cat in a low-pitched voice. Avoid clutching your cat, talking or staring in their face, and invading their personal space. Be aware that sounds like “shh” can mimic another cat hissing with your cat. Slow petting or treats reinforce good behavior and try not to correct your cat if they exhibit negative behaviors. The best bet is to ignore it. Don’t handle or remove your cat from the carrier until requested by a veterinary team member. There may be shots, or procedures that are more easily done with the cat in the carrier, or they may want them to stay “safe” until they need them to come out.
After The Vet Visit
If, after your visit, the vet recommends hospitalization for any reason, make sure your cat has their favorite bedding, toys, litter food, and treats. Talk to the staff first to see what is or is not allowed. Your veterinarian at Woodlands Animal Care Center will talk you through any issues, recommendations, medications, or plans that they feel are necessary for the continued well-being of your cat. The only thing left to do is take your friend home, let them knead your lap, curl up in a ball and feel the frequency of their purrs.
