Administering medication to your cat can be challenging, but there are several effective methods to make the process easier for both you and your cat. Below are various options to consider when giving oral medications.
Our goal is to come up with a system that is safe and minimally stressful for you and your cat, but also ensures that they reliably get the medication they need.
Please see below a list of ideas for you to try. You can also discuss options with one of our vets and nurses. We want to help you come up with a plan that works well for you and your cat.
1. Hide in regular food
Mix the medication with a small amount of your cat’s regular food.
This works best with powder or liquid medications, but some cats will also eat tablets in food.
Wet food is usually easier to hide the medication than dry biscuits.
Use a strong-smelling or favourite foods to mask the taste.
Ensure your cat eats the entire portion to get the full dose.
In a multi-cat household, ensure that your other cats do not have access to the medicated food.
2. Hide in chewy treats
Use commercially available pill pockets or soft treats that allow you to insert the tablets or capsules inside the treat.
We have good success with the Churu bites, Churu rolls, or Churu fun bites. Choose treats with a flavour your cat loves and try a few different options so see what works best.
In a similar way, you can try hiding a tablet inside a chunk of cheese or a prawn.
Make sure the treat is large enough to conceal the medication completely.
3. Mix with licky treats, liquids or pastes
Use lickable treats or pastes that you can mix medication in for your cat to lap up. We have the most success with Churro licky treats compared to other brands, but you can see what works best for your cat. Churros come in a wide variety of flavours so we can usually find one that the cat is keen to eat.
You can also try tuna juice, peanut butter, anchovy paste, yoghurt, milk, cream, butter or cheese. For dairy products, ideally use a lactose free brand, as some cats may get a stomach upset with too much dairy.
4. Give directly into the mouth by hand
If your cat simply won’t accept the medication in food, you may need to give it directly by mouth.
Place your cat on a high surface such as a table. Use a non-slip mat and/or towel on the table so your cat feels more secure. Have a second person to gently hold your cat by the shoulder area to keep them still, or alternatively you can try gently but firmly wrapping in a towel. Place your finger and thumb of your non-dominant hand either side of your cat’s nose and point their nose in the air. Use your dominant hand to gently open your cat’s lower jaw and pop the medication into the mouth (for liquids) or far over the back of the tongue (for tablets or capsules). Close the mouth and encourage swallowing by gently rubbing the throat.
Follow with a treat, some food or water to ensure your cat fully swallows the pill.
Our nurses are highly skilled at this and can give you a demonstration and further tips.
See video below:
5. Give into the mouth with a Pill Popper
This is a device designed to help administer tablets or capsules over the tongue. Many people find this easier or safer than placing your finger in the cat’s mouth.
Follow with a treat, some food or a syringe of water to ensure your cat fully swallows the pill.
Our nurses can demonstrate this for you, or see the video below.
See video below:
6. Try different medication formulations
Ask your veterinarian about different options for the medications your cat requires. Depending on the cat, you may find it easier to use tablets, capsules, powders or oral liquids. In some cases, medication can be specially made up in your cat’s preferred flavour. Selected medications can even be given topically (e.g. an ointment on the ear) rather than orally, or by injection under the skin.
General Tips for Success
Trial and error – Experiment with different options to find what works best
Stay calm – Your demeanour can influence your cat’s reaction. Speak softly and reassuringly, and handle your cat gently and with respect.
Follow up with a treat – Reward your cat after administering medication to create a positive association.
Ask for help – Our vets and nurses are highly skilled and can guide you through the options and troubleshoot any challenges that may arise. Please do not hesitate to ask for help if needed.
Administering medications doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By utilising these methods and keeping your cat’s preferences in mind, you can make the process smoother for both you and your pet.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian or our nursing team.
This post was written by our clinic’s Dr Grace Woodward.
