How to feed a cat a pill? - briefly
To administer a pill to a cat, first wrap the pill in a small piece of cheese or another strongly scented food that your cat likes. Then, gently open your cat's mouth and place the pill as far back on its tongue as possible. Quickly close the cat's mouth and hold it closed while you stroke its throat to encourage swallowing.
How to feed a cat a pill? - in detail
Feeding a cat a pill can be a challenging task, but with the right approach and some patience, it can be done safely and effectively. Here are the steps to follow:
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Prepare the Pill: Ensure the pill is appropriate for your cat. Do not give human medication unless instructed by a veterinarian. Crush or split the pill if possible; this makes it easier to administer. However, some pills should not be crushed, so consult your vet first.
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Choose a Quiet Space: Find a quiet and comfortable spot where you can handle your cat without distractions. This could be a room with minimal noise and traffic.
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Use a Towel or Blanket: Wrap your cat in a towel or blanket, leaving only the head exposed. This helps to keep them calm and prevents them from scratching or biting you. Be gentle but firm when wrapping.
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Position Your Cat: Place your cat on their back with their head slightly elevated. You can do this by placing a pillow or folded towel under their shoulders. This position makes it easier to open the cat's mouth and administer the pill.
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Open the Mouth: Gently but firmly grasp the cat's upper jaw with one hand, using your thumb and index finger. Tilt the head back slightly and use your other hand to gently press down on the lower jaw, opening the mouth. Be careful not to apply too much pressure.
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Administer the Pill: Using a pill popper or syringe (without the needle), place the pill at the base of the cat's tongue. If you don't have these tools, you can use your fingers, but be very careful not to get bitten. Gently blow on their nose; this often triggers them to swallow.
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Close the Mouth: Once the pill is in place, close the cat's mouth and hold it shut gently for a few seconds to encourage swallowing. You can also gently stroke their throat to stimulate swallowing.
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Offer Treat or Water: After your cat has swallowed the pill, offer them a treat or some water as a reward. This helps to create a positive association with taking medication.
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Monitor Your Cat: Keep an eye on your cat for any adverse reactions. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.
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Practice Makes Perfect: The more you practice this routine, the easier it will become for both you and your cat. Try to make the experience as positive as possible by remaining calm and patient throughout the process.