HarPURR's Cart Disclosure

Whenever someone asks about the use of the cart I always share my disclosure:

 

• The use of carts with cats really just depends on his/her purrsonality. 

• Not all cats like the feel of the cart and it is critically important to have a discussion with your vet first to see if a cart is a plausible option for your cart. 

• If you decide together that is the best path, you will want to assess how your cat responds to introductions of new tools etc. How does your cat react to change, items touching his/her body, handling overall etc before starting.

• When I introduce any tool it is always at the pace of the individual cat/dog. You may want to start by handling your cat/dog gently in the area where the harness will be put on. Use positive reinforcement so that he/she will associate it with something positive always. Keep the sessions short and always end on a positive note and avoid any stress.

• Keep adding in each part in slow, scaffolded steps. Getting him/her used to wearing the harness (or whatever attachment is needed to fit in the cart) is the first step. Do this with positive reinforcement until you see that he/she is comfortable. Short sessions ending on a positive note. You can build up the time in the harness as you assess his/her comfort level. 

• The next step is placement in the cart. This too must be done at the pace of your cat/dog’s needs. At first do not let the cart move, just allow him/her to be in the cart with you holding them. Again implement positive reinforcement so that he/she sees this as something enjoyable. Do your best to end the session sooner than later so that it is always on a positive note (I repeat that a lot).

• Once your cat/dog is comfortable in the cart then you can slowly let them move the cart on their own. Of course you should be holding on so they do not go too fast or lose control. Please do not ever pull them or force them to move. If they are comfortable in the cart, then allow them to slowly move the cart on their own. Monitor reactions and ensure they are not stressed. 

• Continue to build their time in the cart based upon how they are responding and their comfort level. 

• Positive reinforcers can be toys, treats etc. You want it to be something that will really encourage them and make the experience enjoyable so that they will want to do it more. 

• Mojo (my inspiration for @mojoshope) learned to use his cart at 14 years strong so anything is possible.

• I do feel that I am very fortunate that HarPURR is such an ameowzing boy who adapts to new situations like a SuPURRstar. He is exceptional on many levels. Not all cats adapt to the cart. I have had success with 3 cats. One cat did not enjoy it at all, so we stopped using it with her. 

• If you have any further questions about using a cart, purrlease email us at harpurrkittywarrior@gmail.com