ANYBODY who has brought me a grumpy feline in the past decade has probably heard me quote my veterinary rules at them.
The first one is written in blood: ‘Don’t fight with cats’.
Wrestling animals which resemble coiled springs with knives on each foot and bacteria-laced fangs is unwise — somebody’s going to hospital and it’s not Felix.
Seek medical attention for any cat bite which breaks the skin — the smallest puncture can lead to sepsis or a lost finger.
Moreover, handling is terrifying for our feline friends.
When gauntlets go on and a grab is made, they’re ready to fight to the death.
Remember, puss may have had to be wrestled into a strange box, driven in the car, placed on a noisy waiting room floor with a terrier and then dragged from safety for some ‘burk’ to stab them with a needle.
Scruffing looks humane but isn’t.
Stress hormones and blood pressure rocket as the panicked animal awaits its fate.
Carriers should have removable lids in spacious, solid, easily-disinfected plastic with a familiar blanket and cover, ideally sprayed with calming pheromones.
Keep the car calm (no metal but cats are partial to classical) and when you arrive use the cat waiting area with a shelf for the box or wait in the car if it’s really doggy in there.
If your cat declares mortal combat when it sees the box/car/hands then please ask your vet for medical help.
We have a number of safe options for picky pussycats.
They’ll need us to be quiet, go gently and not push if puss says no.
Remember, a vet who delays a procedure because your animal is stressed is a green flag and has your animal’s welfare at heart.
Cats may need time, care or medication but most of all they need our respect.
Our columnist Will Trewarman MRCVS is a senior veterinary surgeon at Vale Vets which is based in Kidderminster and Stourport.
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