Getting a cat to willingly go to the veterinarian is a completely different task than trying to get your dog to go. Cats have their own attitudes and can be entirely stubborn when it comes to listening to you. Visits to the vet's office can make your cat very jittery. But, there are some ways you can help your pet handle the veterinarian visit.

Perhaps the hardest part of taking your cat to the vet is getting her in the carrier. Most cats don't like to be confined to small spaces where they don't have control over their environment. You can practice transporting your cat in her carrier, but chances are she will still be unhappy. Instead of hiding the carrier in the closet when you are home, leave it out in a room. Leave the door open, and give her multiple opportunities to get familiar with the carrier. If you place something she likes inside the carrier, a favorite toy or a treat, then she may want to explore the inside.

Before you go anywhere, or if you are letting your cat get accustomed to her travel arrangements, place a blanket or towel in the bottom of the carrier. Something that smells like home can calm her down by providing a sense of familiarity. Make sure your cat is comfortable for any trip. Be careful, though; the blanket or towel should not cover the ventilation holes. It is important that the carrier is ventilated on at least two sides to allow proper air flow for your kitty.

Cats love to hide when they are frightened. Often, veterinarians cover the cat's head with a piece of material during examination. This helps the cat calm down. Carry that technique over to the car ride. Cover the carrier so that your cat feels like she's hidden. Make sure that your cat is still getting plenty of air circulation! If covering the carrier makes her more upset, then remove the cover.

When you get to the vet, request an assistant who is good with cats. When you check in, just ask the receptionist. Don't be afraid to ask for something like this. Most employees at the vet are good with all animals (otherwise they would have other jobs), and everyone has his or her own specialty. When you sit down, try to stay as far away from the dogs as possible. If you want to keep your cat's carrier covered until you get into the exam room, then do; just pay attention to her and make sure the cover isn't adding to her fright. If you have a timid cat, then it is a good idea to stay there during her appointment. Most vets allow you to drop off and pick up your cat once the visit is over. Put yourself in your cat's position: she is in an unfamiliar place with barking dogs, hissing felines and strangers. Would you want to be left alone?

No matter how hard you want to hold your cat while the vet examines her, don't. Remember that the vet and the assistants are trained. They take care of numerous animals daily. If your cat is extremely frightened or a vicious scratcher, then your vet may ask you to hold her. Otherwise, trust the vet with your cat. It will help her get used to the handling for future visits. You can also help her get used to the strange positions the vet will put her in by handling her at home. Don't hurt her, but do practice placing her on a table and holding her still for a couple of minutes. Reward her for getting through the practice session!

Cats need to go to the veterinarian for a variety of reasons. Just because your kitty is scared of the process doesn't mean you shouldn't take her. You can try to familiarize her with the carrier prior to leaving your home. Try leaving the carrier in the floor with a treat or two inside, so she can scope things out on her own terms. Place a blanket or towel in the bottom of the carrier to make her ride more comfortable. Some owners recommend covering the carrier, giving your cat a place to hide. If you choose to do this, then make sure the carrier still has proper ventilation. Ask for a cat specialist when you get to the vet, and sit away from the barking dogs. Trust your cat to the care of the veterinarian. With a little work, your cat will eventually be able handle the visit!