How to get your cat used to a carrier: 7 helpful tips.

For many cats, a carrier can induce stress and anxiety. While your feline friend may never grow to love their carrier, there are ways to alleviate their concerns and make transportation more comfortable and enjoyable for both of you. PetsRadar shares tips on how to properly acclimate your cat to a carrier.

1. Allow More Time

According to veterinarian Rebecca MacMillan, for most cats, the carrier is an unfamiliar territory.

“Moreover, the carrier often leads to places that may have negative associations for the cat, such as the vet,” she adds.

Some cats experience motion sickness, and since they are in the carrier during this time, they develop a negative association with it. Additionally, carriers significantly restrict movement, preventing your cat from stretching out or enjoying a good view of their surroundings, which can be stressful for an animal that typically enjoys observing. Furthermore, the carrier may have an unfamiliar scent.

It's crucial not to bring the carrier out of the garage or a spare room only when you want to put your pet inside. Instead, give your cat ample time to get used to it.

“The key to helping your cat have a better perception of the carrier is to keep it present in your home at all times,” concludes Rebecca MacMillan.

2. Make the Carrier a Cozy Space

The next step is to create a comfortable environment. You want your cat to enjoy being inside, so make it warm and inviting.

“Keep the door open and place their favorite toys or treats inside so your cat can explore it freely whenever they want. You could also put a blanket or something that smells like your cat inside,” says veterinarian Rebecca MacMillan.

If your carrier has a removable top, now is the time to take it off and leave just the base, as this will encourage your cat to wander in and out without the fear of being trapped.

Don’t try to force your cat to sleep in the carrier, but create the most comfortable atmosphere possible to see if it helps them feel more at ease spending time inside or near it.

“All of this helps to build a positive association with the carrier, turning it into a safe space for your cat. Some cats may start using the carrier as a hideout or bed,” summarizes MacMillan.

3. Place the Carrier in a Social Area

One of the best ways to deepen your cat's positive association with the carrier is to place it in a spot where they spend a lot of time and feel most comfortable and secure.

4. Use Treats

When it comes to getting your feline friend accustomed to the carrier, cat treats will be your secret weapon. You’ll be surprised at how easily you can persuade your cat to do something they may not want to do when food is involved. Therefore, using treats can ease this process.

There are two ways to use treats to achieve the desired result. First, you can place a few pieces of treats in the carrier daily while your kitten gets accustomed to it, encouraging them to venture inside. Second, reward your cat with treats each time you see them voluntarily enter the carrier. Both methods will help your cat associate the carrier with positive experiences.

5. Close the Door

Over time, you’ll need to acclimate your cat to being in an enclosed space, which means closing the carrier for short periods so they can’t escape.

We recommend starting with a few seconds, and if your cat remains calm for 3-5 seconds, immediately open the carrier door and reward them with a treat.

Repeat this process several times over a few days until your cat can comfortably tolerate being confined in their carrier for a few minutes.

6. Take Your Cat on Short Walks in the Carrier

Once your cat can sit calmly in the carrier for a few minutes, you can begin taking short walks around the house with them. This will help make transportation from point A to point B less stressful for your beloved pet.

7. Cover the Carrier with a Blanket

The final step in the acclimatization process is to cover the carrier with a blanket during walks with your cat. Cat motion sickness is quite common, and darkness can help reduce nausea.

A blanket can also help alleviate nervousness, stress, and anxiety that may arise when you arrive at your destination.