Getting Your Cat Used to Their Carrier: A Step-by-Step Guide with Must-Have Supplies
Whether it’s a vet visit, a grooming appointment, or a move to a new home, cat carriers are essential for cat parents. But if your feline friend runs and hides every time the carrier comes out, you're not alone! Many cats find carriers stressful, but with a little time and the right approach, you can make the carrier a familiar, comfortable space. Here’s how to get your cat used to their carrier with simple tips—and a few Amazon links to useful products to help make the process even easier!
Step 1: Choose the Right Carrier
Why it Matters: Your cat's carrier should be safe, comfortable, and easy to access. A top-loading option or one with a large door can be particularly helpful if your cat tends to resist going inside.
Recommended Product: Petmate Two-Door Top-Load Kennel This top-loading carrier makes it easy to gently place your cat inside without too much fuss. It’s also sturdy, with plenty of ventilation, so your kitty won’t feel too confined.
Recommended Product: Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed is a really awesome product, as the whole top half unzips and becomes a cozy cute bed. So leaving it sitting out in the living room is not an eye sore!
Step 2: Make the Carrier a Familiar Object
Why it Matters: If your cat only sees their carrier when it’s time for a vet visit, they’ll quickly associate it with stress. Try leaving the carrier out in a space they already feel comfortable in, like your living room or bedroom.
How to Do It: Place the carrier in a visible area and leave the door open. Add cozy blankets or a towel with their scent, and consider adding a favorite toy or two. You could even try spritzing the inside with a calming spray. A towel placed over the carrier can make it a safe inviting cozy space for kitty to take a nap in.
Don't do this a week before you need to take them somewhere. At my house the carriers stay out with the door open 365 days a year! My cats simply see their carriers as a quiet place to sneak a nap.
Recommended Product: Feliway Calming Spray for Cats This spray mimics natural calming pheromones and can help make the carrier a more relaxing space for your cat.
Step 3: Use Treats to Build Positive Associations
Why it Matters: Positive reinforcement can go a long way! By rewarding your cat whenever they go near or inside the carrier, you’re creating a positive association with it.
How to Do It: Start by placing treats near the carrier, then gradually place them inside. Let your cat take their time exploring, and don’t close the door just yet. You’re simply helping them feel like the carrier is a safe, treat-filled space.
Recommended Product: Temptations Classic Crunchy Cat Treats Temptations are popular among cats and can be a great motivator. Try putting a few inside the carrier and see if your cat’s curiosity gets the better of them!
Step 4: Practice Short “Test Runs”
Why it Matters: Once your cat is comfortable exploring the carrier, it’s time to start getting them used to short periods inside. These little “test runs” will help your cat realize that the carrier isn’t something to fear.
How to Do It: Gently close the door for a few seconds at a time, gradually increasing the duration as your cat becomes more comfortable. Be sure to reward them with treats and affection each time.
Recommended Product: Party Mix Cat Treats These treats are a great way to reward your cat after a successful “test run.” We want to reward them with a high value treat so it feels like a real reward!
Step 5: Make Car Rides a Calm Experience
Why it Matters: If your cat only goes on car rides to the vet, they may start associating both the carrier and the car with stress. Try taking them on short, calm car rides to get them accustomed to the sensation of travel.
How to Do It: Start with very short trips, like around the block, and gradually increase the length of the rides. Keep the environment quiet, and consider playing soft, calming music to help soothe your cat.
Recommended Product: Studies have shown that classical music can reduce stress in cats, so play the classical radio station, but keep it on the quiet side.
Step 6: Reward Post-Travel Calmness
Why it Matters: After each successful trip, it’s important to reinforce that being in the carrier leads to positive outcomes. A reward after traveling helps solidify that the carrier isn’t something to fear.
How to Do It: After your cat comes out of the carrier, offer treats, a special meal, or extra playtime. This will help them remember that good things come from being calm and cooperative in the carrier.
Recommended Product: Churu Cat Treats These lickable treats are a favorite among cats and are easy to offer as a quick, rewarding snack post-travel. Perfect for reinforcing good behavior!
Additional Tips:
Be Patient: Some cats may take longer than others to get comfortable with their carrier. Go at your cat’s pace, and avoid forcing them inside. This could mean months not weeks. Don't give up too early!!
Use Familiar Bedding: If your cat has a favorite blanket or pillow, placing it in the carrier can provide extra comfort.
Try a Cozy Cover: Covering the carrier with a breathable blanket can help your cat feel more secure, especially on car rides.
Final Thoughts
Getting your cat used to their carrier can take a little time, but with patience, treats, and the right tools, you can make it a stress-free experience for both of you. After all, a happy cat makes for a happy cat parent!
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