Most cats know what a cat carrier is. It only takes them to see it from the corner of their eyes and then pooffff! the cat is no where to find. This cliche' is a very popular one indeed. It is also a very popular cause of last minute veterinary appointment cancellations. ''I was right about to bring Fluffy to his 5 o' clock appointment, and now it is already 5:15 and I cannot find my cat! I really need to reschedule!

For most smart cats, the carrier is a dreaded means of transportation that takes them out of their comfortable world. Because cats are territorial, they do not like to be taken away from their familiar surroundings with well known smells, sounds and around well known people. However, it does not have to necessarily be this way. A carrier may assume a whole different role in a cat's eyes... All it takes is a little bit of feline psychology.

Placing a carrier in a well familiar spot instead of hiding it somewhere the cat will not see, may be a good way to start. Keeping a carrier in an accessible area with the door open may invite the cat to get familiar with it and even sleep in it. Making it extra comfy may be helpful as well: a blanket and a few catnip toys will mostly do.

Once the cat gets accustomed to the carrier, he or she will accept it as part of the furniture. Because it will be well accepted, seeing it should not be any longer traumatic and the cat therefore, will be less likely to escape from it. This will make the whole trip to the vet ordeal a lot less traumatic.

Another advantage is that once the cat is outside of its environment he or she may be less likely to be afraid because it feels comforted by the fact that the crate has been one of its favorite sleeping places. Plus, as an added bonus the cat has its scent there and this may be further helpful.

Cat owners should never bring thier cat to the vet or elsewhere by just him or her loose in the car. This has caused many accidents in the past. A cat carried by the owner in a vet clinic is also prone to be startled by barking dogs and the general hustle and bustle of busy vet clinics. This may cause the cat to escape from its owner's grasp and also potentially causing injury. Cat carriers are ultimately the safest ways to transport cats being either to the vet, the groomer, or on a well deserved vacation.

Learn more about this author, Janet Farricelli.
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