A carrier is essential for transporting your cat. Get one in which to bring your new cat home; the earlier he starts using one, the sooner he'll accept it easily. Put the carrier in an area where the cat normally sleeps, and line the bottom with bedding that carries his scent. He may investigate the carrier on his own or you may be able to lure him inside with a favorite toy or a treat. Whenever the cat enters, give him verbal praise and a food reward; then, start to do the same with the door closed.

When the time comes to actually use the carrier, your cat may still be hesitant or unaccustomed to it, or simply may not like being coerced into it. If you try to nudge the cat in headfirst, he will probably straddle the door opening with all four paws, sending the carrier off on a slide across the floor. The best approach is to pick your cat up gently and distract him by repeating his name in a soothing voice. With the carrier against a wall to keep it from moving, back toward it and slowly put the cat in tail end first. Close the door quickly so the cat doesn't dart out, and then offer a treat and a few soothing words. Another option is to place the carrier end-up and swoop your cat in back-feet-first, before he has a chance to realize what's going on. A panicky, struggling cat or one that turns aggressive during this exercise may need to be wrapped in a towel or put in a pillowcase for restraint until you can get him securely inside.

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