How To Get A Cat Into A Carrier

The problem of How To Get A Cat Into A Carrier is one shared by many cat owners. Many people, including myself, have struggled with this over and over again. Is there a better way?

The answer, of course (or maybe believe it or not if your cat is difficult!), is yes. There are a number of different techniques you can use in the moment, including scruffing, using cat restraint bags, and a towel or blanket.

But, the very best method is to start long before it's time for your cat to travel, or your cat cat has a vet visit. Let's look at some advice from experts on both the immediate method, and the long term approach.

The videos are below with my commentary. I personally suggest two things. One, if you don't have the right kind of carrier, get a different one. A soft-sided or top loading hard-sided carrier will be much easier on both you and your cat. Two, integrate the carrier into your cat's life, as described in the AVMA video below.

First, the below video shows how not to get a cat into a cat carrier.

Does that scene look familiar? You're going to be late to the vet's office yet again, and look, there's blood on your arm. I've been there many times. Funny (or not) how so many people have cat carriers that are not really made for easy entry.

Now this is much better...

OK, so no one else has a cat that gets into the carrier by himself?

Now let's look how to get a cat into a carrier the correct way.

The below technique used the "grab the cat by the scruff of the neck" idea. Notice, though that she's also supporting the cat's weight, and she has a lot of experience with doing this.

Notice also that she's using a fairly large crate, and it's top loading. Ah, there's a good idea. As I mentioned above, there are some other carriers you can get, including the soft-sided type, that are much easier to get your cat in and out of.

But the best way, of course, is not to bring the carrier out only when you're going to take your cat to the vet. If the carrier only comes out when your cat is going to travel, and she hates car rides, well, guess what?

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