How Halifax Makes Vet Visits Less Stressful for Cats
For many cats, visiting the vet can be a stressful experience. Travelling in a carrier, unfamiliar surroundings, new smells and unfamiliar sounds can all contribute to anxiety.
Cats have different needs to dogs, particularly when it comes to vet visits. Providing a calm environment and using low-stress handling techniques can help reduce anxiety, allowing cats to feel more comfortable and relaxed throughout their visit.
Arriving at the clinic
Your cat’s experience begins as soon as you arrive at the clinic. 
Our waiting area includes a dedicated cat waiting cubby where carriers can be placed away from dogs and busy areas. Blankets are available to cover carriers, helping many cats feel more secure while they wait for their appointment.
We also use Feliway products throughout the clinic. Feliway is a synthetic copy of the feline facial pheromone that cats naturally release when they feel safe and secure. It can help some cats feel more relaxed during their visit.
Gentle handling
Every cat is different, so we adapt our approach to suit each individual patient.
Whenever possible, cats are given time to settle before their examination begins. Gentle handling techniques help minimise stress and for some cats, a lick mat with a favourite treat can provide a good distraction during their examination.
Our cat ward
If your cat needs to spend time in hospital they will be cared for in our dedicated cat ward, separate from dogs.
Our recently upgraded cat cages provide plenty of space for cats to move around and rest comfortably. We offer each cat a hidey house, giving them the choice to hide away or sit on top to observe their surroundings. Having this choice helps many cats feel more secure while they are with us.
To help cats feel safe and comfortable, we roll up soft blankets to create a cosy nest where they can curl up and rest. The ward also features underfloor heating to keep patients warm and comfortable.
Calming music is played throughout the day, and we minimise loud noises to create a peaceful environment where cats can relax and recover.
Puzzle feeders, activity boards and toys are also available to provide enrichment, encourage natural feline behaviours and keep cats mentally stimulated.
Everything your cat needs in one place
Everything your cat needs in one placeOur cat ward includes its own examination table and the equipment needed for many routine examinations and treatments.
This means we can often examine your cat in the ward without transferring them to another part of the hospital. Reducing unnecessary handling and movement helps minimise stress by allowing cats to remain in a familiar environment throughout their stay.
If you have any questions about preparing your cat for a visit, or if your cat becomes particularly anxious when travelling or visiting the clinic, please let us know. Our team is happy to discuss ways to help make their visit as calm and comfortable as possible.
Best wishes from The Halifax Team
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