I finally understood why my cat hates the vet after a trip to the clinic on Maple Street

We were in the waiting room last Tuesday, and a big dog barked right next to her carrier. She froze completely, her eyes got huge, and she didn't make a sound for the whole 20 minute wait. The vet tech said cats often go silent from stress, not just from being 'good'. Now I bring a blanket from home to cover her carrier on the way in. Does anyone else have a trick that helps their cat feel safer at the vet?

2 comments

2 Comments

aaronowens14d ago

Oh man, that silent stress is the WORST. Try bringing a small towel you've rubbed all over your cat's favorite spots at home and let the vet use THAT on the exam table. The familiar smell on the cold metal can be a huge anchor for them. My friend's cat went from shaking to actually leaning into the vet's hand when they did this. It's like a portable piece of their safe zone.

lisa82014d ago

Wow, @aaronowens, that's genius for hiding their own scent too.