At some point, you may be required to medicate your cat in either pill or liquid form.  Unfortunately, compared to dogs, cats are harder to trick into taking their medication.  Here are a few tips to help you out:

1- The pill can be hidden in a small amount of canned food or in a treat – your cat might ingest the pill without knowing it.  Certain commercial treats are designed to hide pills because of their easily molded texture and pocket design.  Offer the hidden pill just before a regular meal to increase the chances of success.

2- If the treat trickery does not work, you may be required to physically pill your pet. 

a) Either sit on your knees on the floor or place your cat on a table and stand behind him/her to prevent him/her from backing up. 

b) With your dominant hand, place your thumb and forefinger on either side of your cat’s face. 

c) Applying gentle pressure to the space between the upper and lower jaw will force your pet’s mouth open.  

d) With the pill ready in your other hand, deposit the medication as far back on the tongue as possible and allow them to close their mouth. 

e) With their head slightly elevated to look up, massage the throat until they swallow. 

3- Liquid medications are dispensed with a syringe or dropper. 

a) Insert the dropper or syringe between the teeth and cheek at the back of their jaw. 

b) While tilting the chin upward, slowly dispense the medication.  Remember to give your pet time to swallow, especially when administering a large dose.

4- If your cat is moving a lot or resisting using his or her front legs, use a towel to wrap his/her body completely, allowing only the head to protrude. 

Please be patient. Being successful at pilling your cat might require several attempts. Do not hesitate to contact the staff at Centrepointe Animal Hospital if you are still having difficulty giving oral medication(s) to your cat.