Selecting a crate
We recommend that all pet-owners choose a carrying crate that allows the cat to have access to the most mobility. It is important for the cat to be able to turn around and stand up. The crate should also have a top that is easily removed. Provision the crate with comfortable, washable bedding preferred by the cat. Some cats will prefer a cushion or towel as a resting site while other cats prefer an object of clothing (such as a t-shirt) worn by a specific person. Place the crate on an elevated resting site favored by the cat when recumbent. This location should be out of reach of dogs and small children in the home. Please ensure that the crate is fastened to a stable area or secure enough where it will not move or fall. First attempt to make the crate available to your cat with the crate door open to establish a feeling of comfort for your cat. If the cat does not readily use the crate at first, remove the top. Later, when the cat is consistently using the lower portion of the crate, add the top section, leaving everything else the same. If the cat avoids use of the crate (which may be the case if the cat had a prior negative experience in that crate), consider another type of carrier, such as a soft-sided model.
Feliway
The synthetic feline facial pheromone, Feliway may be helpful. It is available as a wipe for carriers or a spray. Wipe or spray one spritz of Feliway in the carrier, and allow it to dry before allowing your cat to have access to the carrier.
What we recommend
When the cat reliably rests in the crate, practice approaching the cat in the crate and interacting in a low-key way that the cat likes. For example, offer a tasty treat or scratch the cat’s head gently, then leave the cat alone. Eventually, this can be extended to approach, reward (for allowing your approach), then shut the crate door briefly, open, reward, then walk away.
When the cat accepts these procedures, continue to the next step of closing the door and making a small adjustment in the crate, so the cat feels the crate move, then open the door and give a treat or other reward and leave. With time, pick up the cat and put them in the carrier, close the door, pick up the crate, put it down, open the door and give the reward. In all cases, the interaction is short and does not involve an actual confinement and transport event.
Eventually, add walking around your home with the cat in its crate, returning the crate to its original location and rewarding the cat for tolerating the protocol of being confined and carried. Between sessions, the crate should remain in the safe location.
Do not store the crate out of sight only to be retrieved prior to veterinary visits. For actual veterinary visits, plan ahead so that you do not frighten the cat before it goes into its carrier so the process is calm and not rushed.