Cats and the vet clinic

Fear vs anxiety

There is a difference between fear and anxiety. Fear is when an animal perceives danger during a visit. Anxiety however is when an animal anticipates danger will occur. This may something that the animal imagines. (Tynes, 2014)

It is not possible to create a completely fear and stress free experience but there are things that can be done to help minimise stress. This can make visits to the vets easier next time.

Low stress handling

Sophia Yin has lots of low stress handling guidance on her website. Avoiding scruffing and staring can be a way to help cats.

Weighing

 Weighing a cat at home can be a simple way of keeping an eye on their weight. Popping some food on some baby scales to allow them to eat it can help. Taking a picture of the weight and keeping it in a folder on your phone can help you keep track.

 If it is necessary to weigh a cat regularly in a clinic then weighing the cat and then weighing the carrier separately means that the cat can stay in the carrier next time (if suitable).

References

Tynes, V.V. The Physiologic Effects of Fear. 2014. Available online: http://veterinarymedicine.dvm360.com/ physiologic-effects-fear