7 Tips for Getting Your Cat In and Out of the Carrier
Most kitties don’t willingly wander into their carriers when it’s time to travel. In fact, they might fight you tooth and claw to avoid the carrier altogether. But that’s not an option, so how do you get your cat in and out of the carrier without causing a scuffle?
Let’s look at some tips you can use to make the transition to and from the carrier easier and less stressful (for both of you!).
1. Let Your Cat Get Familiar with the Carrier
Kitty, meet carrier: Carrier, meet Kitty. Introductions matter, so get your cat used to seeing the carrier so it doesn’t seem like a strange being that appears from nowhere.
If you only bring out the carrier when it’s time to go to the vet, they’ll associate the carrier with that experience and be less willing to participate.
Some cat owners choose carriers that can double as pet hotels at home. This way, the cat is used to the carrier being part of their everyday surroundings. They might even wander into it willingly.
2. Include Comfort Items in the Carrier
Hard-sided cat carriers can feel cold and uninviting. It’s no wonder your cat doesn’t want to be stuffed into one. Try adding a few comfort elements, like a plush pet pillow, a fuzzy blanket, or their favorite toy. This makes the carrier more enticing and enjoyable, so your cat might not put up as much of a fight.
3. Go Incognito
If your cat runs at the sight of the carrier, cover it with a blanket or other disguise. It doesn’t change the carrier, but your cat might see it with fresh eyes and a new perspective. At the very least, a new look might pique their interest enough to where they’ll check it out.
4. Stand the Carrier on One End
Most cats won’t willingly walk into the carrier on their own. That’s why many cat owners feel like they have to force the cat into it, but this can end badly with lots of scratches, meows, and a few tears.
If you have a traditional cat carrier (the kind that opens on one end and has a handle on top), try standing the carrier on the end so the door is pointing toward the ceiling. From there, you can gently lower your cat into the carrier and lock them in.
It helps if you hold your cats’ paws together as you lower them down. Hold the back two paws with one hand and the front two paws with the other hand while supporting them with your arm. This way, they can’t try to scramble out before you can place them in the carrier.
5. Try a Top-Open Pet Carrier
Cat carrier designs have come a long way over the years, and the standard carrier with a single door and top handle isn’t your only option. A cat carrier that opens on the top instead of the side might be a better option.
For example, this soft-sided cat carrier includes openings on the top, front, and sides, so you can choose the best way to get your cat in and out of the carrier.
Or, you can try a cat pack. It’s like a backpack but with ventilation and windows so your cat will feel cozy and secure. Cat backpacks open from the top and look nothing like the typical cat carrier.
6. Entice with Treats
There’s nothing wrong with a little bribe every now and then. If your cat resists the carrier, try adding a few of their favorite treats in the farthest corner of the carrier. This will at least give them some consolation once they’re locked up.
7. Use a Bigger Carrier
If getting your cat in and out of a carrier is a struggle, consider upgrading to a larger carrier. This gives you more room to work with and can feel less confining for your kitty.
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