Is there really no way to restrain an uncomfortable cat?

I've had to take my cat to the vet a few times recently. He's been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. Both times he was pretty wriggly and uncomfortable. He's not aggressive in any way, he wasn't swiping or biting at them, just trying to get away.

The techs don't seem to make much effort to restrain him. The first time they just haphazardly tossed a towel over him but it didn't even cover his face. The second time they held a bit tighter but still not very much. They weren't able to get a full blood draw, but thankfully it was enough to check his thyroid. He was on gabapentin this time so a bit calmer but still wriggly. To me, it didn't seem any more crazy that any cat who doesn't like being manhandled. He doesn't even hiss at them

I went back today and it was the same thing. Hopefully enough blood to check how he's doing, but not a full draw.

Is this the norm? Do I just need to accept that he's not well-behaved enough to get a full checkup or should I look for a different vet that will make more of an effort to restrain him?

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Species: Cat

Age: 14

Sex/Neuter status: Neuterd

Breed: Russian Blue

Body weight: 9 lbs (I think)

History: Hyperthyroidism, anxiety. Generally healthy otherwise

Clinical signs: losing weight while still eating a lot.

Duration: a year or so

Your general location: Midwest

Links to test results, vet reports, X-rays etc.