How to give a cat anthelmintics?

How to give a cat anthelmintics? - briefly

To administer anthelmintics to your cat, follow these steps:

1. Ensure you have the correct dose based on your cat's weight and the specific medication instructions.
2. Gently open your cat’s mouth, place the pill at the back of the tongue, then gently close the mouth and lightly blow on the nose to encourage swallowing.

How to give a cat anthelmintics? - in detail

Giving your cat anthelmintics, or deworming medication, is an essential part of maintaining their health and preventing parasitic infections. Here’s a detailed guide on how to administer anthelmintics to your cat:

1. Choose the Right Medication: Consult your veterinarian to determine the best type of anthelmintic for your cat's specific needs. Common options include tablets, liquids, and topical treatments. Each has its advantages and should be selected based on your cat’s age, weight, and health condition.

2. Preparation: Ensure you have everything ready before starting the process. This includes the anthelmintic medication, a clean surface, and any necessary tools like a pill gun or syringe for liquid medications.

3. Read Instructions Carefully: Each medication comes with specific instructions. Make sure to read them thoroughly so you know the correct dosage and administration method.

4. Administering Tablets:

   • Hide in Food: One of the easiest ways to give your cat a tablet is by hiding it in their favorite food. Ensure they eat the entire portion to ensure they ingest the medication.
   • Use a Pill Gun or Treat Dispenser: These tools can help you gently insert the pill into your cat’s mouth, ensuring it goes down smoothly.
   • Manual Administration: If necessary, hold your cat securely and gently open their mouth with one hand while placing the tablet on their tongue with the other. Gently blow on their nose to encourage swallowing.

5. Administering Liquid Medications:

   • Use a Syringe or Dropper: Most liquid anthelmintics come with a syringe or dropper. Fill it with the correct dosage as per instructions.
   • Gently Squeeze: Tilt your cat’s head back slightly and gently squeeze the syringe or dropper at the side of their mouth, allowing them to swallow naturally.

6. Topical Treatments:

   • Apply Directly to Skin: Part the fur between your cat's shoulder blades and apply the medication directly to the skin as instructed. Ensure your cat cannot lick off the treatment by keeping them occupied or separated for a short period.

7. Post-Administration Care:

   • Monitor Your Cat: Keep an eye on your cat after administration to ensure they don’t vomit up the medication. If they do, contact your veterinarian for further instructions.
   • Repeat Treatment if Necessary: Some parasites require multiple treatments spaced apart by a specific period. Follow your vet's advice closely.

8. Safety Precautions:

   • Avoid Human Medication: Never give your cat human deworming medication as it can be toxic to them.
   • Store Properly: Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

By following these steps, you can effectively administer anthelmintics to your cat, ensuring they stay healthy and parasite-free. If you encounter any difficulties or have concerns, do not hesitate to consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice.