How to give a cat a pill if it resists and spits it out? - briefly
Administering a pill to a resistant cat can be challenging, but it is achievable with the right technique. To give a pill to a cat that resists, first wrap the cat in a towel to calm it and restrict movement. Then, gently tilt the cat's head back, open its mouth, and place the pill as far back on the tongue as possible. Once the pill is in, close the cat's mouth and gently stroke its throat to encourage swallowing. If the cat spits out the pill, try hiding it in a small amount of wet cat food or using a pill gun designed for pets. Always consult with a veterinarian for specific advice tailored to your cat's needs.
How to give a cat a pill if it resists and spits it out? - in detail
Administering medication to a cat can be a challenging task, especially when the cat resists and spits out the pill. However, with the right technique and a bit of patience, it is possible to successfully give a cat a pill. Here is a detailed guide on how to achieve this.
First, it is crucial to prepare the environment and the necessary tools. Choose a quiet, well-lit area where the cat feels comfortable. Gather the pill, some treats, and a pill dispenser or a small piece of soft, pungent-smelling food like canned tuna or catnip-flavored cream. Ensure that the pill is the correct size and shape for the cat's mouth, and that the cat is calm and relaxed before attempting to administer the medication.
Next, familiarize the cat with the pill dispenser or the treat. Allow the cat to sniff and lick the dispenser or the treat so that it associates it with something positive. This step is essential for reducing the cat's resistance and making the process smoother. Offer the cat a small amount of the treat or use the dispenser to give a small piece of food. Repeat this process a few times until the cat is comfortable with the dispenser or the treat.
When the cat is ready, place the pill inside the dispenser or hide it within a small ball of the pungent-smelling food. Gently but firmly hold the cat's head with one hand, tilting it slightly upwards. Use the other hand to open the cat's mouth by gently pressing on the lower jaw and lifting it upwards. Quickly but carefully place the pill dispenser or the food with the pill at the back of the cat's tongue. Close the cat's mouth and gently stroke the throat or blow lightly on the cat's nose to encourage swallowing. Be prepared for the cat to spit out the pill, and if this happens, do not punish the cat. Simply wait a few minutes and try again.
If the cat continues to resist, consider using a different method, such as crushing the pill and mixing it with a small amount of wet food or a flavored liquid. Ensure that the cat eats all of the mixture to receive the full dose of medication. Alternatively, consult with a veterinarian for advice on alternative forms of medication, such as liquid or injectable options.
It is important to remain calm and patient throughout the process. Cats are sensitive to their owners' emotions and may become more resistant if they sense frustration or anxiety. Offer plenty of praise and rewards after successfully administering the medication to reinforce positive behavior.
Always follow the veterinarian's instructions regarding the dosage and frequency of the medication. If the cat consistently spits out the pill, consult with the veterinarian for further guidance. They may recommend a different type of medication or provide additional tips for administering the pill.
In some cases, it may be necessary to seek professional help. Veterinarians and veterinary technicians are trained to administer medication to cats and can provide valuable assistance. They can also demonstrate the correct technique for administering pills and offer advice on handling resistant cats.
In conclusion, administering a pill to a resistant cat requires preparation, patience, and the right technique. By following these steps and remaining calm, it is possible to successfully give a cat a pill, even if it initially resists and spits it out. Always consult with a veterinarian for personalized advice and guidance.