🐾 Vet Guide 2025: 10 Things You Probably Shouldn't Do at the Vet’s Office With Your Cat 🚫😿

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc – Veterinarian & Founder of Ask A Vet

Vet visits can be stressful for cats—for you too! As a caring pet parent, there are some unintentional missteps that may cause unnecessary anxiety or even risk your cat’s safety. In this 2025 veterinarian-led guide, we dive into **10 essential don’ts** to help your cat stay calmer, safer, and more comfortable during every appointment. Read on to learn how small changes can make a big difference in your feline’s vet experience. ❤️🐱

1. 👜 Don’t Let Your Cat Travel Loose or Without a Sturdy Carrier

Never hold your cat in your arms during travel or at the clinic—it’s unsafe and stressful for both you and your cat :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}. A solid hard-sided carrier with top and front openings is ideal—it prevents escapes and gives safe space during exams :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.

2. 😟 Don’t Bring an Anxious Vibe

Cats pick up on our emotions. If you're nervous, your cat will be too. Stay calm, speak softly, and play soothing music. Your composure helps reduce their stress :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.

3. 🐾 Don’t Carry Multiple Pets in One Appointment Without Notice

Bringing extra cats unannounced can overload the clinic’s schedule and facilities. It’s best to book separate appointments so each pet gets proper attention :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.

4. 🚫 Don’t Open the Carrier in the Waiting Room or Car

Even if your cat is meowing, never open the carrier—it could escape or injure themselves. Wait until in the exam room and always open the carrier from the top when instructed :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.

5. 📱 Don’t Get Distracted by Your Phone

Keep your focus on your cat and the veterinarian. Avoid cell phones and distractions—your undivided attention helps your cat feel secure and assists communication with the staff :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.

6. 🚶‍♂️ Don’t Assume Other Pets in the Clinic Are Friendly or Safe

Veterinary waiting rooms are full of potentially sick or stressed animals. Keep your cat secure in the carrier—don’t let them roam, and never treat it like a social situation :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.

7. 😷 Don’t Ignore Infectious Risk

Don't linger in the waiting room with a visibly ill animal. Inform staff so your cat can go directly to the exam room to minimize exposure risks :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.

8. ⏰ Don’t Be Late or Miss Prep Instructions

Plan to arrive early—clinics run on tight schedules. Also follow any prep advice, like fasting before procedures, to avoid complications :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.

9. 🗣 Don’t Be Shy About Mentioning Worries

If your cat has special needs—fearful behavior, health concerns, or aggressive tendencies—let the staff know. Proactive communication helps create a better experience :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.

10. 🤝 Don’t Skip Being Respectful & Cooperative

Clinic teams are there to help. Treat them with kindness—ask questions, follow instruction, share observations. A respectful partnership ensures better care :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.

✅ Bonus: Vet Tips to Support a Stress-Free Visit

• 🏠 Acclimate carrier at home with bedding, treats, and pheromones like Feliway :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.
• 🚗 Place carrier low in car, secure it, cover it with a towel—add familiar smells to calm them :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}.
• 🎶 On appointment day, play calming sounds and keep meals light to prevent upset :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}.
• 🍬 Ask staff for treats during vet procedures to create positive associations :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}.
• 💊 If needed, talk to your vet about pre-visit medication like gabapentin to reduce anxiety :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}.

📲 Ask A Vet Support in 2025

Need help preparing for a vet visit or dealing with a fearful cat? The Ask A Vet app connects you to veterinarians who can:

• Offer carrier-training tips and home-handling routines
• Recommend calming aids or pre-visit medication when needed
• Give personalized guidance for timing, fasting, and travel prep
• Support you during and after visits with follow-up advice

Make each vet trip a calmer, smoother, and safer experience—for your cat and your family. 🐾📞

🧠 Final Takeaway

By avoiding these common pitfalls—using a quality carrier, staying calm, communicating clearly, and respecting clinic staff—you help make veterinary visits less stressful and more effective. Your thoughtful preparation sets the stage for healthier, happier appointments. 🌟

Download the Ask A Vet app today for expert support preparing your cat for vet visits, handling anxiety, and maintaining trust-based care. 🐱📲