Having a pet in your household can provide companionship and unconditional love. If you share your home with a cat, you know how independent and whimsical these four-legged creatures can be. Ensuring that your cat's health is a top priority should be important. Regular vaccinations play a critical role in protecting your feline friend from developing a serious illness, but getting vaccinated isn't always a pleasant experience for your cat.

Here are three things you can do to make your cat's next vaccination appointment a little less stressful.

1. Treat inflammation at the vaccination site.

When your vet administers vaccinations to your cat, it's possible that your pet may experience some inflammation or skin irritation at the site of the injection. This inflammation or irritation can be uncomfortable and put your pet in a bad mood.

Treating inflammation at the vaccination site with a topical essential oil can be beneficial. Try diluting some lavender or frankincense oil in a carrier oil (like almond or coconut), then dabbing the mixture onto the vaccination site to keep inflammation and irritation to a minimum.

2. Add some feline pheromone to the inside of your pet carrier.

If your cat experiences a high level of stress when visiting the vet's office for regular vaccinations, you can help reduce his or her stress levels by spraying some feline pheromones onto the inside of your pet carrier.

A female cat gives off pheromones when nursing to help young kittens feel safe and secure. Using a commercial spray containing these same pheromones to douse the inside of your pet carrier will help your cat enjoy those same feelings of calmness and security while visiting a veterinarian in the future.

3. Take along a familiar toy.

If your cat has a favorite blanket or toy, taking this item along with you to the vet's office can be beneficial in helping your cat better cope with his or her vaccinations.

Since the toy or blanket represents the security of home, your feline friend may experience reduced stress levels due to being surrounded with a familiar scent. You can also try giving your pet a special treat that he or she can only enjoy at the veterinarian's office so that vaccination trips are associated with positive rewards.

Helping your cat learn to cope with vaccinations in a healthy way will ensure that you are able to keep your cat updated on his or her shots without causing unnecessary physical or emotional stress.

For more help, contact a clinic like Chicago Cat Clinic.