Intramuscular injection in the withers of a cat: how to do it correctly at home? - briefly
Administering an intramuscular injection in the withers of a cat requires precise technique and careful preparation. Ensure the cat is calm and restrained properly. Clean the injection site with an antiseptic solution. Use a 23-gauge needle and draw the prescribed medication into the syringe. Pinch the skin at the withers to create a small tent, insert the needle at a 90-degree angle, and slowly inject the medication. Dispose of the needle safely after use. Monitor the cat for any adverse reactions. Always follow veterinary guidelines and seek professional advice if uncertain. The withers is the ideal site for injections as it is relatively free of major blood vessels and nerves, reducing the risk of complications.
Intramuscular injection in the withers of a cat: how to do it correctly at home? - in detail
Administering an intramuscular injection in the withers of a cat requires precision and careful preparation. The withers, located between the shoulder blades, is a suitable site for injections due to its muscle mass and minimal risk of hitting major blood vessels or nerves. Before proceeding, ensure you have the necessary supplies and a calm environment to minimize stress for the cat.
First, gather all required materials: the prescribed medication, sterile syringes and needles appropriate for the medication's viscosity and the cat's size, alcohol swabs, gloves, and a towel or blanket for restraint. It is crucial to use the correct needle size; typically, a 23-25 gauge needle with a 1-inch length is suitable for most cats. Ensure the medication is at room temperature to reduce discomfort during injection.
Prepare the injection site by gently cleaning the withers with an alcohol swab. Allow the area to dry completely to avoid introducing alcohol into the muscle, which can cause irritation. While one person restrains the cat, another should administer the injection. The cat should be wrapped in a towel or blanket, leaving only the withers exposed. This method, known as the "burrito wrap," helps to immobilize the cat and reduce stress.
Locate the withers by feeling for the shoulder blades and finding the muscular area between them. Hold the syringe like a pencil, with the bevel of the needle facing up. Insert the needle quickly and firmly at a 90-degree angle into the muscle. The depth of insertion should be about 1/2 to 3/4 of the needle's length, depending on the cat's size and the needle used. Once the needle is in place, aspirate by pulling back slightly on the plunger to ensure no blood is drawn into the syringe, indicating that a blood vessel has not been punctured. If blood is present, withdraw the needle and choose a different injection site.
Slowly depress the plunger to administer the medication. Inject the medication at a steady pace to avoid causing undue discomfort. Once the medication is fully administered, quickly withdraw the needle and apply gentle pressure to the injection site with a clean cotton ball or gauze pad. Praise the cat and offer a treat or petting to reassure it and reinforce positive behavior.
Monitor the cat for any signs of adverse reactions, such as swelling, redness, or lethargy. If any concerns arise, contact a veterinarian immediately. Proper technique and preparation are essential for successfully administering an intramuscular injection in the withers of a cat at home. Always follow the veterinarian's instructions regarding the medication and dosage, and never attempt an injection without proper guidance and training.