How to give a cat worming pills? - briefly
To administer worming pills to your cat, first crush the pill and mix it with a small amount of wet food or treat that your cat enjoys eating. Then, gently open your cat's mouth and use a syringe or spoon to place the mixture on the back of their tongue. Gently stroke their throat to encourage them to swallow. This method ensures the pill is taken effectively and with minimal stress to your pet.
How to give a cat worming pills? - in detail
Giving a cat worming pills can be a challenging task, but with patience and proper technique, it can be done effectively. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you administer worming pills to your feline friend:
-
Preparation: Begin by gathering all the necessary items before you start. You will need the worming pill, a treat or some wet cat food to hide the pill, and possibly a towel for wrapping your cat if it becomes agitated. Make sure the environment is calm and quiet to minimize stress for both you and your cat.
-
Read the Instructions: Carefully read the instructions on the packaging of the worming pills. This will provide you with important information such as the correct dosage, how often to administer the pill, and any potential side effects to watch out for.
-
Choose a Quiet Place: Find a quiet, comfortable place where your cat feels safe. A room with minimal distractions is ideal. Avoid placing your cat on a high surface as this can cause them to feel anxious or insecure.
-
Position Your Cat: Gently pick up your cat and place it on your lap or a stable surface. Use one hand to support the cat's body and head, ensuring it feels secure. If necessary, wrap your cat in a towel with only its head exposed to minimize struggling.
-
Open the Mouth: Using your thumb and index finger, gently press on either side of your cat's mouth just behind the canine teeth (the long teeth at the front). This should naturally open the mouth. Be careful not to apply too much pressure as you don’t want to cause any discomfort or injury.
-
Insert the Pill: Quickly and carefully place the worming pill in your cat's mouth, aiming for the back of the throat. It is helpful to use a treat or a small piece of wet cat food to hide the pill. This way, your cat will swallow it more easily as they try to eat the treat.
-
Close the Mouth: Gently close your cat’s mouth and hold it closed for a few seconds to encourage swallowing. You can also gently stroke your cat's throat to help stimulate the swallowing reflex.
-
Offer Water: After your cat has swallowed the pill, offer it some water to help wash down any residual taste. This can be done by placing a small amount of water on your finger and allowing your cat to lick it off.
-
Monitor Your Cat: Keep an eye on your cat for the next few hours to ensure there are no adverse reactions. Most cats will act normally, but if you notice any unusual behavior or signs of distress, contact your veterinarian immediately.
-
Reward and Comfort: Finally, reward your cat with a favorite treat or some playtime as a positive reinforcement for cooperating. This will also help to reassure your cat that the experience was not negative and can make future administrations easier.
By following these steps, you can effectively give your cat worming pills while minimizing stress for both of you. If you continue to have difficulties or if your cat shows signs of illness after taking the pill, consult your veterinarian for further advice.