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By Alyce Collins
Senior Reporter
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After seeing how his cat misbehaved during an appointment at the vet's, one owner took matters into his own hands (or arm, as it were) to show him how it's really done.
Peter the cat is evidently not a big fan of having blood drawn, which makes his veterinary appointments difficult. However, Peter's owner decided to take the Russian blue along for his own appointment at the doctor's, just so his feline could see how it should be done.
The video was shared on the cat's dedicated TikTok account (@peterthegrey) on January 29, showing the owner in a chair before having his blood taken. Meanwhile, Peter was perched inside his cat backpack carrier not too far away.
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The backpack featured a clear plastic panel, meaning Peter could watch it all unfold before his very eyes.
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Layered over the video, the caption jokes: "Showing my cat that I don't scream and claw at the human vet when I get my blood drawn."
Since it was shared last month, the clip has gone viral with 2.2 million views and 451,700 likes on TikTok at the time of writing.
Newsweek has contacted @peterthegrey via TikTok for comment.
A trip to the vet's can be a stressful experience for many pets, certainly not just Peter. However, there are many adjustments that owners can make to alleviate the anxiety of their furry friends.
VCA Animal Hospitals recommends bringing a cat's favored treats and canned food to an appointment as this can serve as a comforting distraction. If they're too worried to eat anything, owners can try swaddling them in a large blanket or towel and allowing them to bury their head within.
It's fundamental for owners to remain calm throughout and only speak to the cat in a calm and soothing voice. It can also be helpful to book appointments when the vet's office is quiet or possibly waiting in the car until it's time to go straight into the examination room. A crowded waiting area with lots of anxious pets won't help.
VCA Animal Hospitals also recommends taking long-term steps to build positive associations with trips to the vet. For example, putting the cat in a carrier and going for a short drive can help them see it as more pleasant. Make it an adventure filled with treats, rather than a dreaded ordeal.
Peter's owner tried to encourage his cat by showing him how to behave properly during a medical appointment, but he doesn't have high expectations. The caption alongside the hilarious clip jokes: "doubt he will change [though]."
Social media users have lauded his valiant efforts though, leading to more than 620 comments on the viral TikTok post. Many people highlighted just how disappointed the cat looked while observing his owner.
One comment reads: "I feel like he may be embarrassed by your lack of fight."
Another TikTok user wrote: "He looks absolutely horrified for you."
"See how I don't scream and claw? Very cutesy. Very demure," joked another commenter.
A different person added: "He's never been more disappointed in you."
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? We want to see the best ones! Send them in to life@newsweek.com and they could appear on our site.
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