Just like us, at some point your feline companion will likely need to take medication. This can be a scary thought, but it is possible to safely and effectively medicate your cat. So what’s the best way to give a cat a pill? There’s no single beat answer, as no two cats are the same. We do have four common solutions for you to try, though!
How to Give a Cat a Pill Method 1: Hand Pilling
To begin, you will need to tuck your cat in the crook of your arm and against your body so they cannot back away. With one hand you will reach over your cat’s head and gently grasp their cheeks behind the canine teeth. Point their nose to the ceiling and their mouth will drop open slightly.
With the opposite hand, use one finger (usually the middle finger) to gently push the lower jaw down. Holding the pill with your thumb and pointer finger, place the pill as far back in the mouth as you can. Let go of the mouth and gently rub your cat’s throat; this will stimulate the swallow reflex. Look for your cat to lick their lips, as this is a sign they have swallowed. It is a good idea to open your cat’s mouth back up after ensuring the pill has been swallowed.
Liquid medication can be an alternative and can be easier than giving a cat a pill. Begin the same way by tucking the cat against you. With the tip of the medication syringe, aim for the corner of your cat’s mouth where the lips meet the cheek. There is typically a small window just behind the canine teeth. Gently press the syringe into their mouth until your cat opens their mouth, allowing you to administer the medicine.
How to Give a Cat a Pill Method 2: Sneaky Snacks
This method is perfect for our feline friends that are highly food motivated. Find something your cat gets very excited to eat. There are many over the counter products such as pill pockets and liquid treats (e.g., Churu (R)), which tend to be some feline favorites. Chicken baby food, lunch meat, and tuna are also great options.
How to Give a Cat a Pill Method 3: Lick Mat
Lick mats are available at any pet or grocery store. You can add any snacks that spread easily to hide the medication. Lick mats can then be stuck to the floor, refrigerator, crate, or other place your cat feels safe. Be careful with this method in a multi cat household, as your other felines may want to have a snack as well!
Be sure to keep an eye on your pet while using this method, to ensure they don’t eat around the medication or drop it on the floor. We recommend only providing enough food to hide the medication, as we don’t want your cat to eat a small amount, become full, then miss eating some or all of the medication.
How to Give a Cat a Pill Method 4: Gel Capsules
A great option for medicating your cat are premade empty gel capsules. These can be purchased at your local pet store. You can add the prescribed medication(s) to the clear capsule and either use the hand pill or sneaky snacks method. You can also place it in their food bowl or a special plate that they can associate with getting something yummy. The capsules are especially helpful for any medication that has a bitter taste.
Another advantage of the capsule is the ability to combine multiple pills into one capsule, saving you time and stress of having to give multiple pills. Always double check any leftovers to make sure the medication was eaten.
Good Luck!
We hope this helps give you the courage in giving a cat a pill with confidence!
Should you find yourself in need of an emergency veterinarian we can help!
Call our Frederick location at 301.200.8185
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