Can clicker training help with vet visits?
Written by
Elin Eriksson
Reviewed by
Prof. Edward Clarke, Ph.D.Clicker training changes veterinary visits from traumatic events to manageable routines. This method successfully prepares cats for medical situations by gradually exposing them to them. I've helped many fearful cats overcome their anxiety during visits and exams using these training techniques. The most important part is to create positive associations for the cat before the actual visit takes place.
Carrier Training
- Teach voluntary entry using target sticks and high-value rewards
- Practice closing doors for brief periods while rewarding calmness
- Take short car rides to build positive travel associations
Handling Exercises
- Condition paw handling through gentle touches paired with treats
- Reward tolerance for simulated temperature checks
- Build mouth examination acceptance using dental treats
Tool Desensitization
- Associate stethoscopes with treat delivery during sessions
- Reward calmness near nail clippers without cutting
- Introduce syringe feeding with tasty liquids before medication
Commence systematic desensitization weeks before the appointments. Start by putting carriers in favorite resting places. Move next to closing the doors for seconds while giving treats. I suggest practicing for five-minute sessions every day. This gradually builds positive associations.
Recreate exam table sensations in your house. Teach cats to remain calm on high surfaces, such as exam tables. Give them rewards for staying in the positions which the veterinarians use them. Practice these handling techniques in these sessions. I like to use lickable mats during mock exams to develop a good distraction later.
Assume a reward-based association with medical tools through classical conditioning. For example, in meal situations, place stethoscopes beside food bowls. You may also click and treat if the cat investigates some syringes and vacutainer tubes without medication. You are counter-conditioning the emotional responses of fear to fear-based responses with only treat-based associations.
Read the full article: Cat Clicker Training: The Complete Guide
