Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My cat is aggressive at the vet. Can I sedate him before visits?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 10 months and 4 days old

Since my cat has begun to mature, he has become aggressive/confrontational towards strangers. So much so that when we tried to take him to the vet for shots the last time, they gave up trying to give them to him because he wouldn't cooperate. Is there something a vet could prescribe for us to give at home that would make him groggy so he wouldn't be so stressed once we get to the vet? I'd like to get him fixed to see if it helps his behavior.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 20th, 2017

Neutering could definitely help the aggression problem. I would also recommend picking up a product called Feliway. It comes in a spray and a plug in and it has pheromones that can help calm your cat. You will not be able to smell it. Sometimes this helps, too. You can also spray the towel in the carrier so he can bring it with him to the vet. I would contact your vet for an oral medication to help sedate him prior to his next exam. This would help ensure his safety and every one that handles him.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What to do if my cat has a small hole with pus coming from its ear?
Is your cat's ear hole oozing pus? A Petco vet explains potential infections like abscesses from bites, advising immediate vet care, antibiotics, and recovery.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
New Pet
Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?
New pet biting? A Licensed Vet Tech shares expert advice on how to gently acclimate your new companion to their home, reduce stress, and build trust. Get guidance for a happy pet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
How to keep a pet mom and her newborn babies warm and calm?
Support your pet mom and newborn babies! A certified vet offers advice on ideal room temperature, minimizing stress, and quiet intervention for food & water.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My hamster is suddenly bloated, angry, and biting. What should I do?
Is your Chinese dwarf hamster suddenly bloated, angry, and biting nonstop? A DVM explains pain signs and urges immediate vet care for his distended abdomen.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my pet's swollen lump with green patches not getting better?
Is your pet's swollen, green-patched infection still bothering them after treatment? A certified veterinarian discusses proper diagnosis methods like biopsy and FNA.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my 5-week-old chick struggling to walk with splayed legs?
Is your 5-week silkie chick struggling to walk, with splayed legs & curled feet? A board-certified vet explains possible causes like Mareks and what to do next.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored