Even if you didn't own a cat, you would probably know that cats are difficult to medicate. It is certainly not a pleasant task. No matter how much your cat loves you, he is not going to be excited to take medication. Plus, once your cat catches on to your game, it's toast. Cats aren't dummies, and they will become suspicious of you. Fortunately, there are still some ways you can trick your cat into taking medication prescribed by the veterinarian.
Sneak Veterinary Medication into Cat Food
In the case of most veterinary medications, you can sneak them into your cat's food. Of course, it is important to ask the vet if this is an option for your pet. If that's not working, you may be able to find treats that are meant to hold pills for your cat. Your pet may not be able to even taste the pill you just gave him. If that's not working, you may find it helpful to crush pills or mix liquids in wet food or a can of tuna. Of course, this technique is most useful when your cat is hungry. Make sure that your cat has no access to food in the hours leading up to medicine time.
Ask About Compounded Medications
In some cases, you may be able to receive compounded medications through a veterinary pharmacy. These medications are flavored liquids that make it easier to fool your cat or tablets your cat can chew that will look and taste more like a treat than a pill.
Ask about Transdermal Gels
In some cases, you may ask for medication in the form of a gel that you can apply on the skin. You would typically rub the gel inside the ear, a place the cat will not be able to remove it easily. This method may be controversial, however, because veterinary experts do not all agree that these gels are completely effective. It is important to discuss this with your cat's veterinarian first.
Discuss Possible injections
Injections administered at a veterinarian's office may make it unnecessary for you to give your cat medications. These injections must be long-lasting. Antibiotics and cortisone are among the most common injections administered in this way.
No matter how smart your cat is, your veterinarian can always outsmart them. If you have questions about administering medication to your cat, contact a veterinarian such as Robert Irelan DVM.
Share27 January 2017
Do you own a small animal like a mouse, hamster or even a lizard? Did you know that even these tiny creatures can benefit from veterinary care? My name is Emma, and I own a number of small pets. I have found out through my experiences that veterinary care can give my little pets a longer, healthier life. This blog will cover what a small animal needs from regular medical care as well as special situations that require emergency veterinary intervention. Tiny pets deserve a healthy life, too. Learn how to do all your can for the littlest animals in your care.
