How to get your cat used to the carrier

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Edited by: Ingrid King. Last updated: February 6, 2023 by Crystal Uys

A cat carrier is an important part of your cat’s life. For most cats, the only time they are in a carrier is when they need to go to the vet, so the association with carriers is often negative and stressful. But carriers can be vital in an emergency, and it’s crucial to get your cats used to the carrier so they can associate it with a positive experience.

Choose the right carrier

Carriers come in all shapes and sizes, from hard-sided crates to soft-sided carrying cases. It depends on your preferences and those of your cat as to which one you choose. Make sure the carrier is large enough for your cat to stand up and turn around comfortably. If you plan to travel with your cat, a larger carrier that can accommodate a small litter box may be a good choice.

Keep the carrier accessible at all times

Integrate the carrier into your cat’s daily environment. Leave it on the floor and open for your cat to explore on their own and don’t think of the carrier as something that only comes out when it’s time to go to the vet. By being able to get in and out of the carrier, your cat will stop seeing it as something threatening.

Make the carrier interesting

Place a cat bed or soft blanket inside the carrier. If your cat reacts to catnip, periodically sprinkle the catnip inside the carrier. Leave your favorite treats or toys inside the carrier. Some experts recommend feeding your cat inside the carrier.

Teach your cat the “in” command

Once your cat is comfortable with their carrier, you can use treats to train them to enter. Call him to the carrier, place a treat inside and say “in”. When he goes to get the treat, praise him profusely. When it comes out, toss another treat into the carrier and repeat. Over time, you should be able to say “in” first, and your cat will walk into the carrier on its own. Reward him with a treat while he’s still in the carrier.

Practice closing the door

Once your cat seems comfortable with the carrier, practice closing the door. Leave the room for a few minutes. If your cat is calm when you return, open the door and give her a treat while she’s still inside the crate. If he seems restless or upset, don’t give him a treat (you don’t want to reward the unwanted behavior) and try again later, with a shorter time frame.

Practice taking the carrier

Once your cat is comfortable inside the carrier with the door closed, take the carrier and carry it around the house. Give a treat once you put down the carrier and open the door.

Take your cat for a practice ride

Take your cat for short training walks in the carrier. Start with a short drive around the block and gradually increase the distance. Reward your cat with treats when you return. The idea is to get your cat to associate being in the carrier and in your car with something other than a trip to the vet.

With the right carrier and a patient, slow approach to getting your cat used to it, you’ll avoid a lot of stress at the time of a visit to the vet and be prepared for any emergency.

How did you accustom your cat to the transport cage? Thanks for sharing your tips!

This article was first published in 2013 and has been updated.

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