• Many people will know how difficult and stressful it can be sometimes to get your cat into a basket. So is it a good idea to bring your basket out the night before a visit to the vets to “get your cat used to it”. The answer is a definite NO.  This will probably result in your cat hiding away. The problem is that cats often take quite a bit of time to adjust to something new.  A trip to the loft, or cellar to get the basket, and the noise of the basket door being opened can all be associated in the cats mind with a bad memories of previous trips, and can result in your cat becoming more anxious.

 

So what can you do to make the experience easier for all involved?

 

• Sadly there is no quick fix, to get your cat used to the basket is going to take some weeks.  The basket should be left open in the kitchen, near any feeding bowls. Leave some really yummy treats should be left near the door of the basket (and nowhere else). Once your cat has got used to eating treats from near the door of the basket (at least a week but may take longer) then start putting some treats inside the carrier for your cat to retrieve.  This needs to be a long term plan , if possible so that your cat starts to associate the basket with pleasant memories of tasty treats.

 

• If you are driving your cat make sure that you make the journey as smooth as possible. Sudden breaking or swerving around a corner can make for a very stressful journey for your cat and can even result in their carrier tipping over.

 

• If you don’t have time to go through this process before a visit to the vets or the cattery, you can use a spray called Feliway (containing cat pheromones or scent) which can help your cat feel calmer and less stressed  whilst in the basket. You should also place a blanket or towel from home in the carrier to reassure them.

 

• Top loading baskets may be easier to lift your cat into and out of then end opening baskets. Your basket should be big enough for the size of your cat (there is a surprising variety in normal adult size and weight of cats ranging from 3.5- 8kg).  If your cat is very stressed in its basket placed a towel over the top the darkness can help calm your feline friend!