Crate Training for Cats: A Lifesaving Skill for Peaceful Travels and Emergency Preparedness

When you think of crate training, dogs probably come to mind first—but crate training for cats is just as important. Whether you’re heading to the vet, hitting the road for vacation, or preparing for emergencies, having a cat who is calm and confident in their carrier can be a game changer. At Cincinnati Animal CARE, we know how stressful it can be to wrestle a reluctant cat into a crate—and we want to help make those moments easier for both you and your feline friend.

Why Crate Training for Cats Matters

Crate training for cats does more than simplify vet visits. It can literally save lives. In emergencies like house fires, natural disasters, or sudden evacuations, being able to safely crate your cat in seconds can mean the difference between safety and tragedy. A well-trained cat who sees the crate as a safe haven is far less likely to panic, hide, or escape.

We also see countless lost cat reports every year where the cat escaped during transport—often due to fear and an unsecured or unfamiliar crate. Training your cat to not only tolerate but enjoy their crate helps prevent dangerous escapes and makes everyday transport less stressful.

Step-by-Step: How to Crate Train a Cat

Crate training for cats takes patience, but the steps are simple. Here’s what we recommend:

Choose the right crate
Your crate should be large enough for your cat to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Bonus points for top-loading options or crates that fully disassemble for easier cleaning and access.
Create a cozy, inviting space
Place soft bedding, a favorite toy, or some catnip inside. Keep the crate open in a quiet area where your cat already feels safe. Toss in high-value treats throughout the day to encourage exploration.
Motivate with positive reinforcement
Use small treats to guide your cat toward the crate, moving closer each time. When they reach the crate entrance, toss a treat inside and let them go in on their own. Eventually, place treats in the back of the crate to encourage full entry.
Make it part of your routine
Repeat this a few times daily. If your cat is hesitant, try a new location or use calming pheromone sprays like Feliway. The goal is for your cat to enter the crate without fear and even spend time relaxing inside it.
Practice closing the door and lifting the crate
Once your cat is comfortably entering and exiting, start practicing short sessions with the door closed. Pick the crate up and gently set it down again while rewarding your cat.
Get your cat used to the car
Take short trips—just to the end of the driveway or around the block. Give treats and praise after each step. Slowly build up to vet trips and other destinations. Crate training for cats is as much about confidence building as it is containment.

Preventing Door Darting and Carrier Escapes

One common issue we see is door darting—a cat’s instinct to bolt when they see an open space. This is especially risky during crate transport. To prevent this, teach your cat to wait to be released from the crate instead of bursting out.

Here’s how:

After placing your cat in the crate, wait a moment before closing the door. Let them settle.
When you reach your destination, open the door slowly and block the exit with your hand or body while giving calm verbal reassurance.
Use treats to encourage them to wait until you say it’s OK to come out. Consistency here is key.

If you’re fostering or transporting multiple cats, consider using visual barriers between crates and reinforcing these waiting behaviors for each individual. Cats who feel safe and in control are less likely to try and flee.

Don’t Forget: Microchip Your Cat!

Even with the best crate training for cats, accidents happen. That’s why every cat at Cincinnati Animal CARE leaves our care microchipped. A microchip is a permanent ID that drastically increases the chances of being reunited if your cat is ever lost. Keep your contact information up to date with the microchip registry—and remind friends and adopters to do the same.

Crate Training Is a Lifelong Gift

Once your cat is crate trained, your life together becomes so much easier. You can evacuate quickly. Visit the vet without stress. Take your cat to grandma’s house for the holidays. And most importantly, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re ready for anything.

At Cincinnati Animal CARE, we’ve seen firsthand how crate training for cats helps keep families together—even during life’s most unpredictable moments. Start small, go slow, and always end on a positive note. You’ll be surprised how quickly your cat can become a crate-loving pro.

Need help getting started? Ask your vet for crate recommendations, stop by our shelter to learn more, or reach out to one of our feline behavior volunteers. We’re here to help every step of the way. And if you haven’t already—get your cat microchipped at CAC for only $15 today! It’s fast, affordable, and can make all the difference.

Crate training for cats isn’t just a skill—it’s a lifesaving habit. Start today.

Crate Training for Cats: A Lifesaving Skill for Peaceful Travels and Emergency Preparedness