Training a Cat To Accept a Carrier

This training should be done during the kitten’s socialisation period. However, cats at any age can be introduced to a carrier in this way.

Remember that habituation is a simple learning process whereas desensitisation and counterconditioning (DS and CC) is most usually carried out as a treatment for cats that already have developed a fearful and negative association with their carrier. This can take longer and requires a much more sensitive and gradual approach as described in this resource.

The Benefits

To alleviate the stress of journeys outside the home.
To enhance the cat’s welfare.

Stages of Training

Stage One: Getting used to the carrier

Place the carrier in a location where the cat sees it on a regular basis so it becomes part of their everyday environment.
Make it a positive and safe place to be. Line it with their bedding and encourage them there by scattering treats and engaging them in play in and around it (see Figure 1).
Positively reinforce any movement towards the carrier with a tasty food treat ensuring an extra tasty one is given when they voluntarily go inside it, even if it’s just one paw to begin with.

Figure 1. Scattering food inside the carrier and lining it with a comfortable mat/bed can encourage a cat inside and creates positive associations.

Stage Two: Closing the door and movement

When they are comfortable going in and out of it, very gradually (second by second) familiarise them to the door being shut, still providing a reward each time.
Gradually, lengthen the time they remain inside the carrier but always ensure they stay calm and relaxed. Food puzzles can help keep them occupied and create positive associations.
To get them used to it being moved whilst carried, briefly and gently rock it from side to side whilst it is still on the floor but avoid anything too vigorous.
Once they are happy to be secured inside and comfortable with movement, get them used to it being lifted – just a short way off the ground to begin with. Keep up with the rewards.
Next get them used to the carrier being covered. Use a blanket or towel that contains their scent.
Spraying synthetic FFP on the bedding inside the carrier may help induce calmness. This should be applied fifteen minutes prior to letting the cat inside.

Stage Three: Being Transported in a Vehicle

Once the cat has successfully undergone the first stage of training (which should not be rushed) it’s time to introduce them to being transported in a vehicle. As with stage one, take each step slowly and do not progress to the next stage unless the cat is calm and free from signs of distress. Having another person in the back of the car during training is helpful as they can dispense food rewards through the grills of the carrier to create a positive experience.

Before exposing them to hearing the car engine, initially place them in the covered carrier inside a stationary vehicle.
Place the carrier in a secure and stable position (the Center for Pet Safety recommends that the typical cat carrier should be placed on the floor of the vehicle behind the front seat).
Avoid putting the carrier on the front seat as this can distract the driver and in the event of an accident an airbag can cause damage to the carrier and injuries to the cat inside.
Start the engine for a short spell but don’t drive anywhere. Reward for calmness.
Repeat this stage, lengthening the time in the car.
Next move the car a very short distance (e.g. down the drive). Very gradually build up to a longer journey.
Think about the choice of music being played in the car. Avoid loud obtrusive genres. Cats seem to prefer quiet and gentle classical music.
Be considerate when moving the carrier during transportation. Avoid swinging or knocking it into things and drive mindfully.

Other Notes

Teaching a cat to relax on a specific mat or blanket would be useful prior to, or alongside, this training. In this way the mat could be used to line the carrier, helping to prompt a calmer state.

In the below video Caroline presents a short, but useful, overview of cat carrier training.