Administering medication to a cat is often tricky, and many pet owners wish they could avoid it altogether. However, there are times when your feline friend needs medicine, and knowing the right techniques can make the process smoother for both you and your pet. Cats are experts at spitting out pills, so it's important to use the right approach to ensure they receive their medication properly.

Types of Cat Medications and Supplements

Medications and supplements for cats come in various forms, and choosing the right one can make administration easier.

Common Supplement Forms for Cats:

• Liquid supplements – Easy to mix with food or water.
• Chewable treats – Often flavored to promote oral health.
• Probiotic powders – Can be sprinkled over food for digestive health.

Types of Medications for Cats:

• Tablets or pills – The most common form, but often difficult to administer.
• Capsules – May be easier to hide in food.
• Dissolvable tablets – Designed to dissolve in water or soft food.
• Liquid medications – Can be given using a dropper or syringe.
• Injections – Typically administered by a vet or trained pet owner.
• Transdermal medications – Applied to areas with less fur, such as the ear.

If your cat struggles with pills, ask your veterinarian if the medication is available in a liquid or transdermal form. Some pharmacies can also prepare flavored liquid formulations that may be easier for your cat to accept.

Things to Know Before Giving Your Cat a Pill

Many medications have a bitter taste, making them unappealing to cats. If your vet prescribes a pill, ask if it comes in a flavored option or if it can be compounded into a liquid. Some compounding pharmacies offer medications in fish or liver flavors that cats may prefer.

Before administering medication, check with your vet to see if the pill can be crushed or mixed with food. Some medications must be taken whole, while others can be safely broken down. Always follow your vet's instructions to avoid any health risks.

Easy Methods to Give a Cat a Pill

Trying to give your cat a pill without proper technique can lead to stress for both of you. Here are some methods to make the process easier:

Hiding the Pill in Food

If your cat's medication is safe to take with food, disguising it in a favorite treat can be the simplest approach. Some great options include:

• Wet cat food (paté-style works best).
• Tuna or chicken.
• Pill wrap treats.
• Baby food (plain chicken or turkey without onions or garlic).

Varying the food you use to hide the pill can prevent your cat from associating a specific treatment with medication. Offering the pill just before mealtime may also help, as your cat will be more likely to eat when hungry.

Crushing the Pill (If Allowed)

Some medications can be crushed and mixed into food or broth. Always ask your vet before doing this, as certain pills should not be broken down. If your vet approves, crush the pill into a fine powder and blend it with a small amount of wet food or broth for easier consumption.

Wrapping Your Cat in a Towel ("Purrito" Method)

For a more controlled approach, wrap your cat in a towel so only their head is exposed. This prevents scratching and keeps them still while you administer the pill. Here's how:

• Place your cat on a towel.
• Fold the towel snugly around their body, leaving only their head out.
• Secure the towel under their body to prevent movement.

Using a Pill Popper (Pill Dispenser)

A pill popper is a syringe-like device that helps place the pill directly in your cat's mouth without using your fingers. To use a pill popper safely:

• Hold your cat's head gently but firmly.
• Place the device in the side of their mouth, aiming for the back of the throat.
• Release the pill and immediately close your cat's mouth.
• Gently stroke their throat or blow on their nose to encourage swallowing.

Giving Liquid Medicine

If your cat's medication is in liquid form, follow these steps:

• Draw the prescribed dose into a syringe.
• Gently hold your cat's head, but do not tilt it upwards.
• Insert the syringe into the side of their mouth, just past the lower teeth.
• Slowly squirt small amounts, allowing them to swallow naturally.

What to Do if Your Cat Spits Out the Pill

Cats are notorious for spitting out pills. If your cat refuses to swallow, try the following:

• Rewrap the pill in a different treat.
• Try using a pet pill pocket treat.
• Ask your vet about alternative medication forms.

If your cat keeps refusing the medication, seek guidance from your veterinarian for alternative solutions.

Safety Tips When Giving Medication

• Always follow your vet's dosage and administration guidelines.
• Hold your cat gently but firmly to avoid injuries.
• If you struggle, get help from another person to hold your cat.
• If your cat gets stressed, take a break and try again later.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after handling medication, especially transdermal treatments.
• If you get bitten, seek medical attention, as cat bites can cause infections.

Final Thoughts

Administering medication to a cat requires patience and the right technique. The best method depends on your cat's temperament and the type of medication prescribed. If you continue to have trouble giving your cat pills, contact your vet for alternative solutions or a demonstration of proper techniques.