As a pet owner, you play a crucial role in managing your pet's anxiety during vet visits. Just as people can be hesitant to see the doctor, animals often experience stress and anxiety about going to the vet. Your calm and reassuring presence can help your furry friend feel safe and secure, making their visit less stressful for both of you.
Why Does My Pet Fear Of The Vet?
Several aspects of a vet visit can cause anxiety in your pet, and if your dog or cat is already unwell, these feelings can become even more intense.
- Unfamiliar surroundings: The vet's clinic has many strange smells and sounds.
- Being away from home: This can be especially stressful for cats.
- Other animals in the waiting room.
- Being handled by strangers.
- The examination or treatment itself.
- Reacting to their owner's emotions: Many owners are unaware that their stress can affect their pets.
Tips To Help Your Pet Feel Comfortable At The Vet
Skipping the vet isn't an option, so if your pet gets anxious during visits, the best approach is to reduce its stress levels.
Get Them Used To Car Rides
Cats, in particular, need to become accustomed to car rides since they often associate car trips with vet visits, which can be stressful. Dogs usually enjoy car rides, but for cats, it's important to start gradually. Place treats in the car and let them enter at their own pace, keeping the door open to avoid feelings of confinement. Once they are comfortable, you can close the door, start the engine, and take short trips.
Get Them Used To Carriers And Crates
Using a crate or carrier can help reduce anxiety by making your pet feel secure during car rides. However, if your pet is afraid of the crate, start desensitizing it before the vet visit. Familiarize it with comfortable bedding, toys, and treats, and encourage it to see it as a safe space.
Try A Happy Vet Visit
Some veterinary clinics offer 'happy visits,' which involve only petting and treats without examinations, vaccinations, or treatments. These visits can help reduce negative associations with the vet by creating positive experiences.
Bring Toys And Treats
Bringing along a favorite toy or treat can help distract your pet and create positive associations with the vet visit. Simple as it may seem, it can effectively keep your pet calm and happy.
Consider Supplements, Or Medication
If your pet continues to experience extreme anxiety despite trying these methods, you may need to consider supplements or medication. Non-medicated tablets that increase serotonin production or pheromone sprays that mimic maternal pheromones can be helpful. In more severe cases, your vet may recommend anti-anxiety medication or sedatives.
