If your cat runs at the sight of their carrier, you’re not alone. Many cats associate their carrier with things they dislike like car rides and vet visits. Luckily, with patience and positive association, you can teach your cat to tolerate or even like being in their carrier.
Keep the Carrier Out All the Time
Cats don’t like change and can be very suspicious of new experiences. If the carrier only appears when it’s time to go to the vet, your cat will associate the carrier with stress, fear, and unpleasant situations. If you leave the carrier out all the time, it becomes a regular part of the environment and loses some of its power.
Make it Cozy
Cats love small, enclosed spaces and cozy nooks and a carrier is actually a great place for them to want to relax and spend time. Place a soft blanket or towel inside the carrier, add a toy or two, and leave it out in an area of your home that your cat passes by regularly. Leave the door either open or temporarily remove it so your cat can explore the carrier or cozy up inside it on their terms.
If your cat needs more coaxing to go in their carrier and you have a hard carrier that can be taken apart, start by removing the top half and try to get them to hang out in the bottom half. With the top half gone, your cat may feel less threatened by the carrier. With a cozy blanket inside, it’s basically just a bed now. When your cat is regularly eating or relaxing in the carrier bottom, add the top back on and see how they react.
Feed in their Carrier
Most cats are food motivated so putting some treats or a bit of food inside the carrier will lure them in. They will associate the carrier with things they like and be less fearful of it. Start by leaving treats just outside the carrier. When your cat is comfortable eating those, start offering treats just inside the carrier. Eventually, leave the treats at the back of the carrier so your cat has to go all the way in to eat their reward.
Play Near their Carrier
Playing with your cat near their carrier can make them feel more comfortable with its presence. The more they are used to seeing the carrier around, the less scary it will seem. Play with a wand toy and lead your cat toward the carrier. They don’t need to touch or enter the carrier, just having fun while being near it is enough. If your cat jumps on top of the carrier while playing, even better.
Practice Positive Reinforcement
When your cat explores the carrier on their own, praise them and give them a treat.
Gradually Get Them Used to their Carrier
Once your cat gets comfortable hanging out in the carrier, gently close the door for a few seconds while they’re inside enjoying a treat. Gradually increase the time with the door closed, and always reward them. Practice picking up the carrier with them inside it so they get used to the movement and the loss of control. Start by just carrying them around the room or around the house. Then you can take short car rides. If you plan to take your cat on long road trips, this is particularly important. Starting with short car rides will really help acclimate them to being in the carrier before their big trip. Pro tip: covering the carrier with a towel or blanket during travel can help your cat feel calmer.
Be Patient
It may take quite a while for your cat to feel comfortable being inside their carrier. It will depend on many factors including their personality, age, and prior experiences. Pay attention to their body language and reactions to different steps. Don’t rush them into anything and definitely don’t punish them. Most importantly, never force your cat into their carrier as that will be very stressful and upsetting for them. The goal here is to create a positive association with it so future experiences are easier, not more challenging.
By following these steps, you can help your cat feel comfortable in their carrier and reduce unnecessary stress. Having your cat willingly enter their carrier will make life much easier for you both, especially in case of an emergency. You’ll be able to transport your cat safely and keep them as comfortable as possible.
Love, Nala
