When it comes to giving medication to your pet cat, the task can often seem easier said than done. Cats are notoriously resistant to the concept of swallowing pills, and as such, you may find yourself wondering whether there's a secret technique to get the job done. In this article, we aim to provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to administer oral medication to a cat that stubbornly resists tablet intake.
Before delving into the "how," it's useful to understand the "why." What is it that makes cats so resistant to swallowing pills? Gaining insight into their behavioral patterns and instinctual reactions can provide a foundation for a more successful approach to administering oral medication.
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Cats have a highly developed sense of taste and smell, which helps them determine what food is safe to eat. When presented with an unfamiliar object like a pill, their instinct is to reject it. Furthermore, the act of prying open their mouth to insert the pill can induce fear and anxiety, leading to resistance.
It's also essential to consider that the taste or smell of the medicine itself may be off-putting. Many medications have a bitter taste, which doesn't appeal to the cat's palate. Therefore, the challenge is to find a way to make the pill more palatable or disguise its presence altogether.
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There are several ways to administer oral medication to a cat, and the right method will depend on your cat's temperament and the specific medication requirements. It's recommended to consult your veterinarian before deciding which technique to use, as they can provide tailored advice based on your pet's health history and needs.
The three main methods are direct administration, hiding the pill in food, and using a pill dispenser. Direct administration involves placing the pill directly into the cat's mouth, while the food method involves hiding the pill in a treat or meal. A pill dispenser is a device that holds the pill and helps place it in the cat's mouth.
Considering that most cats are resistant to having their mouths pried open, the food method can often be the most successful. However, some medications should not be taken with food, so it's crucial to check with your vet first.
The first step in administering a pill directly is to have everything ready beforehand. Prepare the medication and keep a glass of water and a towel nearby. Ensuring that your cat is calm and comfortable is crucial for a successful procedure.
To start, position your cat on a flat surface and firmly hold their head from the top, tilting it slightly back. This action naturally causes the cat's jaw to drop open. Use your other hand to open the cat's mouth wider and place the pill as far back on their tongue as possible.
Once the pill is in place, close the cat's mouth and gently stroke their throat to encourage swallowing. Be careful not to release the cat's head until you're sure they have swallowed the pill.
If your cat resists direct administration, another option is to hide the pill in food. Choose a strong-smelling and tasty treat that your cat loves. The strength of the smell can help to mask the scent of the medication.
Once you've chosen the treat, make a small hole or pocket in it and place the pill inside. Make sure the pill is entirely hidden within the treat. Then, give the treat to your cat and observe them closely to ensure they eat it entirely.
It's worth noting that this method may be less effective if your cat is a picky eater or if they have a tendency to eat around the pill.
A pill dispenser is a helpful tool for those who have difficulty administering medication directly. These devices hold the pill and have a plunger that pushes the pill into the back of the cat's mouth, making it more difficult for the cat to spit it out.
To use a pill dispenser, place the pill in the holding area and hold your cat's head back as described earlier. Insert the dispenser into your cat's mouth, on the side, behind the canine teeth and towards the back of the throat. Push the plunger to release the pill, then close your cat's mouth and gently massage their throat to encourage swallowing.
Regardless of the method chosen, it's essential to reward your cat after they've taken their medication. This can help to build positive associations and make future medicating easier. Additionally, always follow your vet's instructions regarding the specific dosage and frequency for each medication. While these methods can help, it's equally important to ensure your cat is receiving the correct amount of medication for their health needs.
Administering liquid medication can often be a simpler and less stressful option, especially if your cat is particularly resistant to swallowing pills. A syringe or dropper can be used to give your cat the correct dosage of liquid medicine.
To administer liquid medication, you must first prepare everything you need. This includes the syringe or dropper with the correct dosage of medication, a towel to clean up any spills, and some treats to reward your cat afterwards. It's also important to read the medication instructions carefully to see if it should be given with or without food.
Start by positioning your cat on a flat surface and gently holding their head from the top, tilting it slightly back. Never force your cat's mouth open; instead, wait for them to open it naturally. Once their mouth is open, gently insert the syringe or dropper into the side of their mouth, placing it between the teeth and cheek.
Slowly squeeze the syringe or dropper to release the medication into the cat's mouth. Allow your cat to swallow the liquid medicine before releasing their head. If your cat is resistant, you may need to squirt a small amount of medication at a time.
Following the administration, it's crucial to reward your cat with a treat or their favorite food. This helps to create a positive association with the medicating process and can make future administrations less stressful.
If your cat refuses to swallow pills or liquid medicine, pill pockets could be a useful alternative. Pill pockets are small, tasty treats with a built-in pouch perfect for hiding medication.
To use a pill pocket, place the pill or liquid medicine capsule inside the pouch of the treat. Ensure the pill or capsule is fully enclosed inside the treat, and seal the opening of the pocket to prevent the medication from falling out.
Once the medication is securely inside the pocket, present the treat to your cat as you usually would. Make sure the cat completely consumes the treat to ensure they have taken their medication. As with other methods, always reward your cat after they have taken their medication to further reinforce a positive association.
When it's time to administer medication to your cat, remember that patience is key. It's crucial to stay calm and composed to prevent causing unnecessary stress. What's more, it's vital to be fully aware of how your cat reacts to different methods and adjust your approach accordingly.
Whether it's using a pill pocket, mixing the pill into wet food, delivering it directly into the cat's mouth or using a pill dispenser, there are various ways to get your cat to take their medication. Remember, though, that each cat is unique. What works for one might not work for another.
Finally, always consult with your veterinarian before choosing a method. They can provide valuable advice based on the specifics of your cat's health condition. Consequently, this will ensure the wellbeing of your cat throughout the medication process.
Giving medication to your cat may be challenging, but with patience, understanding, and the right approach, it can be made easier.