Taking Your Cat to the Vet: A Guide to a Stress-Free Visit

Vet visits can be tough on cats but a little prep goes a long way. From calm carriers to gentle rewards, here’s how to make the experience easier for both of you.

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Whether it’s their first check-up or a routine appointment, taking your cat to the vet can feel like a big moment – for both of you.

Cats are creatures of habit, and even short trips can feel unsettling. But with the right preparation, you can help make the experience calmer and more comfortable.

Here are our top tips to help you prepare, reduce stress, and support your cat every step of the way.

Checklist: Preparing your cat for a vet visit

  • Get the carrier out early: Leave the carrier out a few days before the visit so your cat can explore it in their own time. Add a favourite blanket or treat to create positive associations.
  • Choose a secure, comfortable carrier: Look for carriers with a solid bottom, easy top access and good ventilation. Familiar smells help too – place something from home inside, like a soft towel they’ve slept on.
  • Practice calm handling: Gently handle your cat around the face, paws and tummy in the days leading up. It helps them stay more relaxed during the actual check-up.
  • Stay calm yourself: Cats pick up on our emotions. Speak softly, move slowly and try to stay relaxed throughout the process.
  • Keep it quiet: On the way to the vet, keep noise and movement to a minimum. Covering part of the carrier can help your cat feel safe and hidden
  • Use pheromone sprays or calming products: Consider using a calming spray in the carrier about 15 minutes before travel –it can help soothe anxious behaviour.
  • Limit food beforehand: If your vet allows, avoid feeding your cat a big meal just before their appointment. Some cats travel better with a light tummy, and they may respond better to treats at the clinic.
  • Reward after the visit: Once home, give your cat time to settle – followed by a quiet cuddle or a tasty treat (like an Encore broth pouch) to reward them for being brave.
Cat getting into a carrier

Common questions about taking cats to the vet

How do I keep my cat calm at the vet?

Stay calm, use a secure carrier with familiar smells and keep voices and movement soft. A short play session before leaving can help burn off nervous energy.

 

What if my cat is scared of the vet?

Let your vet know. Many practices are cat-only or have cat-friendly procedures and may allow quiet waiting areas or longer appointment slots.

 

Top tip: Consider booking a home visiting vet or if there aren’t any in your area, ask your vet about the possibility of giving your cat an anti-anxiety medication prior to the journey to calm their nerves (and yours!).

 

I’m taking my cat to the vet for the first time – any tips?

Take it slow. Visit the clinic in advance (without your cat) to learn the layout. Practice getting in and out of the carrier in a calm setting beforehand.

 

Taking your cat to the vet doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little preparation and a lot of calm, it can go nice and smoothly.

Looking for something gentle to reward them post-check-up? Explore our Encore Treats – made with natural ingredients they’ll love, even after a big day out.

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