Most cats aren’t going to destroy the house if left unattended for part of the day. Neither will they eliminate inappropriately, as long as they have a litter box available. Those are among the primary reasons for crating a dog, but there are situations in which a cat may require crate confinement.
Crate training a cat is certainly possible. The training itself is a little different than for dogs, but cats don’t respond to the same type of training as dogs anyway. You may have noticed that your feline friends are more independent and not as eager to please compared to canine companions.
Crates vs. Carriers
Keep in mind that crates and carriers aren’t synonymous. You will need a carrier to take your cat to the vet or if otherwise transporting him or her. A crate is much larger than a carrier, and the two are not used for the same purposes. While the smaller carrier is appropriate for travel, it is not large enough to keep a cat in for extended periods.
A crate will have open metal or mesh sides. It is big enough to accommodate a litter box, the animal’s food and water bowls, and a comfy pillow, blanket, or pet bed.
Why Crate a Cat?
Reasons for crating a cat differ from those for dogs. Canines associate crates with dens, and crating gives them a sense of security. Cats, not so much – but training can change feline perception.
Reasons for crating cats include:
- Recuperation from illness or injury
- Medication needs
- Acclimation
- Litter box training
- Taming feral felines
- Kitten safety – little ones can get into trouble when left unattended
Some people want to crate their cats at night so Kitty won’t roam around the house or disturb their sleep. Crating is a reasonable solution, but some cats may get vocal about nighttime crating. In other words, meowing is another method of sleep disturbance.
Crate Training a Cat
If you’re bringing home a new cat or trying to tame a feral, place the cat directly into the crate from the carrier. In either situation, the cat has to acclimate. A friendly cat may only have to stay in the crate for a day or so until it can start exploring the new home. A feral cat may have to stay crated for much longer, as you work to gain its trust.
For other felines, start the crate training process by making the crate as comfortable as possible. Place a soft, cushy bed inside to encourage the cat to enter and curl up. Put his food inside the crate, or leave treats there.
During crate training, leave the door open so Kitty can come and go as she pleases. Once they’re used to the crate, close the door for short periods. Let them get used to being confined in the crate for several minutes at a time so they don’t get scared of being locked up. Eventually, you can leave the cat in there for longer sessions without upsetting them. At Direct Animal, our pet care experts design and manufacture durable and easy-to-clean professional cat condos, and other state-of-the-art equipment for animal facilities made to last the life of your business, whether you’re a vet, luxury boarding facility, animal shelter, or doggy daycare. Rely on us for animal care equipment that is ergonomic, hygienic, and affordable. For more information about our products, contact us today.
