Cat Wrangling 101Welcome to the fuzzy rodeo!

Megan Kelly, RVT

Things To Keep In Mind…

• Every cat is different– What works for some will not work for others

• Cats are not small dogs– Using dog restraints can result in injury

• Take your time, but hurry up!– It’s better to go slow, but always do any procedure

as quickly and efficiently as possible

Standing Restraint

• Place cat on table, not allowing them to sit

• Place one hand on the cat’s side and snug the cat against your body to keep them still. You can use this hand to grab front legs if necessary as well.

• Hold the head/chest by cupping your other hand on the chest or under the chin

Standing Restraint

Sitting Restraint

• Place cat on table

• Gently push their rear down into a sitting position

• Keep one hand around the rear, snug to your body. You can use this hand to grab front legs if necessary as well.

• Place the other hand on the chest or under the chin to hold the head

Sitting Restraint

Lateral Restraint

• AKA – The Scruff and Stretch

• Place one hand on the cat’s neck/upper shoulder area

• Grab a handful of skin and pull up tightly

• Lift the cat into the air and support their bottom with your other hand by grabbing the rear legs

Lateral Restraint

• Place the cat on its side

• Pull the rear legs backward to stretch the cat

• Use the forearm of the arm holding the scruff to brace the spine– Keeps kitty from wiggling!

Lateral Restraint

Alternative Restraints

• Towel Wraps– “Purrito”

• Cat Bags

• Muzzles

Final Thoughts

• Always Watch the Head!– They are very quick

• Less is More– Some cats become more

aggressive with more restraint, but relax with less

Helpful Videos

• Standard Cat Restraint• https://

www.youtube.com/watch?v=fN94YltkCME

• Low Stress Handling (newer techniques)• https://

www.youtube.com/watch?v=uF_VXc8NJZw

Resources

• Low Stress Handling, Restraint,and Behavior Modificationof Dogs & Cats– Dr. Sophia Yin

• Principles and Practice of Veterinary Technology, 3rd edition– Dr. Margi Sirois