How to properly give a cat an injection in the scruff at home?

How to properly give a cat an injection in the scruff at home? - briefly

To administer an injection to a cat in the scruff at home, first ensure you have all necessary supplies: the medication, a syringe, and gloves for your safety. Gently pick up the cat, secure it on a stable surface with its back to you, locate the loose skin at the base of the neck, pinch this area to create a tent, insert the needle at an angle parallel to the spine, and slowly inject the medication.

How to properly give a cat an injection in the scruff at home? - in detail

To administer an injection into the scruff of a cat at home, follow these detailed steps:

  1. Prepare the Area and Supplies:

    • Choose a quiet, well-lit area where you can comfortably handle the cat without distractions.
    • Gather your supplies: syringe with needle, alcohol wipes or swabs, cotton balls, and a towel. Ensure all equipment is sterile and within reach.

  2. Warm the Injection:

    • Remove the cap from the syringe and hold it between your palms for a few minutes to warm it up. This makes the injection more comfortable for the cat.

  3. Restrain the Cat:

    • Wrap the cat in a towel, leaving only the scruff (the loose skin at the back of the neck) exposed. This helps keep the cat calm and secure while minimizing their movement.

  4. Locate the Scruff:

    • Gently lift the skin at the back of the cat's neck to locate the scruff area, which is usually a fold of loose skin between the shoulders.

  5. Clean the Injection Site:

    • Using an alcohol wipe or swab, thoroughly clean the area where you will inject the medication. Allow it to air dry for a few seconds.

  6. Inject the Medication:

    • Hold the syringe with your dominant hand and stabilize the cat's scruff with your non-dominant hand.
    • Insert the needle into the scruff at a 45-degree angle, ensuring it penetrates beneath the skin but not too deeply.
    • Slowly depress the plunger to administer the medication. Be cautious and steady to avoid causing discomfort or injury.

  7. Remove the Needle:

    • Once all the medication is injected, carefully remove the needle from the scruff at the same angle it was inserted.
    • Immediately apply gentle pressure with a cotton ball to the injection site for about 30 seconds to prevent any bleeding or oozing of the medication.

  8. Monitor and Comfort:

    • After administering the injection, unwrap the cat from the towel and allow it to rest comfortably in a quiet area.
    • Monitor the cat for any adverse reactions or signs of discomfort. Provide reassurance with gentle strokes and soothing words if necessary.

  9. Dispose of Sharps Safely:

    • Follow local regulations for disposing of used needles and syringes to ensure safety and environmental responsibility.

By following these steps, you can effectively administer an injection into the scruff of a cat at home, ensuring both the cat's comfort and the successful delivery of the medication.