Thinking like a cat

Thinking like a cat


Kitty anxiety at the veterinary clinic can morph into aggression, skew medical test results and convince some owners that it’s not worth the trip. So a cat-savvy veterinary staff aims to soften the sights, sounds and odors that fuel a cat’s fears.

Some clinics have cat-only waiting and exam areas or schedule cats and dogs at different times of the day. Keeping carriers off the floor and ushering cats directly into exam rooms also lessens the fear factor. The same goes for cleaning up unfamiliar odors from chemicals and other animals.

If possible, the veterinary staff will examine your cat where she feels most comfortable. Quiet voices and calm, predictable movements help set the stage. Signs of building kitty anxiety can signal time for a toy break.

Thinking like a cat makes all the difference.

 

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