At Anchor Animal Hospital, we are proud to have a Fear Free Certified team and to be working toward our Fear Free Practice Certification. Our doctors, technicians, and client care team use gentle, low-stress techniques to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress during veterinary visits—making appointments calmer, safer, and more positive for everyone.
Learn more about Fear Free at fearfreepets.com.
Understanding FAS (Fear, Anxiety, and Stress)
Cats are experts at hiding stress. Many show subtle signs of FAS at the vet—or even on the way there. Recognizing these cues helps us tailor each visit to your cat's needs.
Subtle signs of FAS in cats may include:
- Hiding or crouching low in the carrier
- Dilated pupils; ears held back or flattened
- Tail tucked tightly; body held very still (freezing)
- Turning the head or body away; avoiding eye contact
- Excessive grooming or scratching (displacement behaviors)
- Refusing favorite treats or food
More obvious signs can include:
- Growling, hissing, or swatting
- Attempting to bolt or escape
- Loud vocalizing (yowling, crying)
Remember: FAS doesn't mean your cat is "spicy" or difficult—it simply means they're feeling nervous or unsure. Many cats react this way at the vet, and that's completely normal. Even our own team members have seen it with their cats, which is why we're so committed to Fear Free care.
When You Arrive for Your Appointment
To minimize stress from unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells:
- Wait in your car when you arrive.
- Text (508) 996-3731 with your parking spot number and your cat's name.
- Our client care team will check you in.
- When your exam room is ready, a technician will escort you and your cat inside.
Please bring a cell phone so we can stay in touch while you wait.
Preparing Your Cat Before the Visit
Fear Free care starts at home. These steps help make travel and check-in easier:
- Carrier training: Leave the carrier out with soft bedding; add treats or toys so it becomes a safe, familiar space.
- Pheromones help: Spray Feliway® in the carrier 10–15 minutes before use.
- Cover the carrier: A towel or blanket helps block unfamiliar sights/smells.
- Stable transport: Carry the carrier from the bottom (not the handle); in the car, place it on the floor behind the passenger seat.
- Stay calm & plan ahead: Cats read your emotions—leaving early and moving slowly helps everyone arrive relaxed.
- Treats welcome: Bring small, favorite treats if your cat enjoys them.
Happy Visits for Cats
Cats don't usually get out of the house just for fun, which means every car ride or vet trip can feel stressful. Happy Visits are short, low-stress trips designed to help your cat build positive associations with our hospital.
- These visits are very short—just a chance for your cat to come into a quiet exam room, stay in their carrier, and get treats, praise, and gentle attention.
- We don't perform any medical procedures during a Happy Visit.
- Over time, these "practice runs" can help your cat become more confident about travel and vet visits.
- Happy Visits are especially helpful for kittens learning that the vet is a safe place, but can also benefit adult cats who show signs of anxiety.
Please call ahead to schedule a Happy Visit so we can make sure the hospital is calm and ready for your cat.
Victory Visits for Cats
Some cats need more support than a simple Happy Visit. Victory Visits are specially scheduled sessions with a technician to gradually help your cat feel safer and less anxious about vet care.
- Each visit is tailored to your cat's comfort level and pace.
- Cats may remain in their carrier, be gently handled, or simply spend quiet time in an exam room, depending on what they can tolerate calmly.
- We use Fear Free methods such as pheromones, soft bedding, treats (if your cat enjoys them), and calm handling.
- These visits are especially valuable for cats who have previously found vet visits overwhelming and need extra support.
Victory Visits are like step-by-step training sessions that help cats "practice" coming to the vet in a way that feels safe. Over time, this makes future medical visits smoother and less stressful.
Transporting Your Cat to the Vet
Travel can be one of the most stressful parts of a vet visit. These quick tips can help:
- Use a sturdy, top-loading carrier with comfy bedding
- Leave the carrier out at home so it feels familiar
- Place the carrier on the car floor behind the passenger seat for stability
- Spray Feliway® 10–15 minutes before travel; avoid feeding 1–2 hours pre-ride
- Stay calm—your cat takes cues from you
Learn more tips for Transporting Your Cat to the Vet Here.
Pre-Visit Questionnaire
Every cat is unique. Help us prepare for your pet's specific needs by completing our Pre-Visit Questionnaire. Tell us about your cat's preferences, triggers, and past experiences so we can reduce stress from the start.