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If you are just getting around to taking your kitten to the veterinarian, you may already be feeling stressed out. From getting the kitten into the carrier to holding the kitten while they get their shots, a vet trip can be a worrisome adventure. That's why it's a good idea to use the following tips to ensure that the trip goes as smooth as possible.

Calm Down

As the kitten's owner, it's imperative that you act as a calm role model during the entire experience. When you are frazzled, your cat knows and thinks something is wrong. It is important that you speak in a soothing tone so that you can reassure your cat that everything is okay, so practice relaxation techniques before you get ready to take the cat to the vet. Take deep breaths, have some tea or do a favorite activity beforehand, so that you are calm and relaxed when it's time for your kitten's veterinary appointment.

Keep the Kitten in the Carrier

When you get to the vet's office, you may want to hold your kitten. However, when you consider that the vet's waiting room is probably full of other strange animals that may scare your kitten, it is a better idea to keep the kitten in the carrier. The carrier is safe and your kitten will not be able to scratch if they get nervous.

Schedule Early on a Weekday

In an effort to do everything possible to cut down on the stress your kitten feels at the vet, it's a good idea to schedule appointments properly. Most people seem to take their animals to the vets on weekends, so consider making an appointment on a weekday morning when less animals are likely to be there. An appointment first thing in the morning will get your kitten in and out quickly, and they won't have to sit in the waiting room as long.

Try a Practice Run

You don't want your kitten to associate the carrier and car rides with misery and pain, so it's a good idea to try a few practice runs before the actual vet trip. Load the kitten into the car and take short drives, so that the kitten becomes used to car trips. If possible, meet with the vet before the actual appointment just so the vet can pet the kitten and the kitten doesn't associate pain with the vet's office.

Now that you have some ideas about how you can make your kitten feel better during a trip to the vet (like those at The Pets Place Animal Hospital), put the tips above to use. Talk to your vet about more ways that you can keep your kitten calm during vet visits.