We often see dogs whose tails are tucked between their legs or cats who are hiding under a blanket in their carrier at our veterinary hospital. If your four-legged friend, like many pets, becomes stressed during a veterinary visit or grooming appointment, reduce their anxiety with these tips from our team at The Old 41 Animal Hospital.

Why do pets get scared during veterinary visits?

Pets often display stress, anxiety, or fear when visiting their veterinarian. These common emotions can be caused by:

  • An unfamiliar environment — The veterinary hospital is usually an unfamiliar environment, with different smells, sounds, and sights that can trigger anxiety and fear in pets. 
  • Previous negative experiences — Pets may associate veterinary hospitals with pain or discomfort, especially if they have undergone medical treatments or procedures there in the past.
  • Handling and restraint — Some pets may feel uncomfortable or frightened when unfamiliar people, such as veterinary staff, handle or restrain them during examinations or procedures.
  • Sensory overload — Veterinary hospitals, with the presence of other animals, loud noises, bright lights, unusual smells, and unfamiliar equipment, can be overwhelming for pets and can contribute to their anxiety.
  • Lack of socialization — Pets who have not been properly socialized to new environments, people, and experiences may be more prone to fear and anxiety in unfamiliar situations like veterinary visits.

Understanding the reasons behind your pet’s fear can help you address their anxiety and make their veterinary visits less stressful. Then, gradually implementing strategies to reduce their fear and help them make positive associations with veterinary hospitals can alleviate their anxiety.

How can I help ensure my pet’s veterinary visit is stress-free?

If your pet is stressed or anxious during their veterinary visits, you can reduce their unease in many ways, including:

  • Familiarization — Take your pet to The Old 41 Animal Hospital when they don’t have an appointment. Such short visits can familiarize them with the environment and our hospital’s sights, sounds, and smells, and they’ll feel less anxious when they visit for actual appointments.
  • Positive association — Bring along your pet’s favorite toy, treats, or comforts from home. Reward them with treats and praise during and after the visit, so they form positive associations with veterinary hospitals.
  • Carrier training — If your cat becomes anxious in their carrier, acclimate them by leaving it out at home with comfortable bedding inside. Encourage them to explore and nap inside, and feed them their meals or special treats inside to build positive associations. With time, your cat will consider their carrier a safe space where they feel more secure during travel and veterinary visits. 
  • Medication or supplements — In some cases, our veterinarian may recommend anxiety-reducing medications or supplements to help calm your pet during visits. Options may include prescribed medications (e.g., anti-anxiety drugs) or supplements (e.g., pheromones, calming chews, or herbal remedies) that can promote relaxation and ease stress. The proper product combination can minimize or eliminate your furry friend’s fear extremely effectively.
  • Positive reinforcement — Use positive reinforcement techniques during your pet’s veterinary visits. Reward them with treats or praise for calm behavior, such as sitting quietly or not resisting being handled and examined. Teaching your pet tricks or cooperative care techniques is also a wonderful way to occupy their focus and reduce anxiety.
  • Staying calm — Pets can pick up on their owner’s stress and anxiety. Staying calm and composed during the visit, speaking softly, and avoiding abrupt movements or exaggerated calming measures will help reassure your pet.
  • Strategic scheduling — Schedule appointments during the slowest parts of the day to minimize wait time and exposure to other pets, which often triggers stress and fear, especially in cats.

We understand that veterinary visits can be nerve-wracking for any species, whether two- or four-legged, and we can help put your four-legged friend at ease during their veterinary visit. Contact our team at The Old 41 Animal Hospital for personalized recommendations or anxiety-easing medication.