Does your cat enjoy cruising around town? Chances are, the answer to that question is no. Most of our feline patients absolutely despise car rides! Sooner or later, however, Fluffy will need to be transported. When she does, she should always be in a carrier. But what should you look for when picking a carrier? A Hoschton veterinarian offers some suggestions below.
S ize
Generally speaking, when it comes to animal housing or cages, bigger is better. That isn’t the case here, however. You don’t want to go too big. Cats can tumble around too much in larger carriers. Plus, they tend to feel more secure in smaller spaces. Of course, if the carrier is too small, your furry friend may end up feel trapped and frightened. As a rule of thumb, the carrier should be about one and a half times Fluffy’s size. Your kitty should be able to sit up, turn around, and sleep in various positions, without tripping over her dishes.
Material
Both hard and soft carriers have their own pros and cons. Nylon ones are lightweight, attractive, and easy to store. Unfortunately, they do sag, and won’t really protect Fluffy from being jostled around. They also don’t provide much protection in case of an accident. Plastic crates aren’t as pretty, but they are durable and easy to clean. You may that find a carrier that opens from the top is a bit easier to manage.
Cardboard
There are also cardboard box carriers. These should really only be considered one-time use carriers. Shelters often provide these for people to bring kitties home in. They will also work in an emergency. However, they don’t last long, fall apart when wet, and are easy to get out of.
Tips
Helping your feline pal form a positive impression of her carrier will definitely make things easier for you both. Add some comfy bedding and some toys to the carrier, and offer Fluffy treats, praise, and catnip while she’s inside it. You may also want to leave it out between uses. If your kitty only sees the carrier before she goes for a dreaded car ride, she may bolt for cover as soon as she spots it!
Please contact us, your Hoschton vet clinic, for all your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!