How to give pills to cats — and live to tell the tale

This guide outlines how to give pills to cats, with tips for preparation, administering, and what to do afterwards.

Giving pills to cats can be a challenging task, but it’s essential for their health. Here’s a detailed guide with various strategies to make the process as smooth as possible.

Also read: how to wash a cat 

How to give pills to cats: first steps

Consult Your Vet

Before administering any medication, consult your veterinarian. They will provide instructions on dosage and whether the medication can be crushed or mixed with food which makes it easier to give pills to cats.

Be Prepared

• Gather the necessary supplies for how to give a cat a pill: the medication, a pill dispenser, a towel or blanket, and treats.
• Wash your hands to avoid transferring any scent.
• Wrap in a Towel if necessary: For particularly feisty cats, wrap them in a towel with only their head exposed.  This restricts movement and makes it easier to administer the pill.

How to give pills to cats: 6 methods

1. The Direct Approach

• Place your cat on a flat surface.
• Gently hold your cat’s head from above, using your thumb and forefinger to open their mouth.
• Insert the pill as far back in the mouth as possible.
• Close their mouth and hold it shut until they swallow. You can gently stroke their throat to encourage swallowing.

2. Pill Dispensers

• Pill dispensers are designed to hold the pill securely and deliver it to the back of the throat.
• Follow the same steps as the direct approach for how to give pills to cats, but use the dispenser for a more controlled delivery.

3. Crushing Pills

• Some medications can be crushed and mixed with a small amount of wet cat food.
• Ensure your vet approves this method to give pills to cats.
• Crush the pill into a fine powder and mix it well with the food.
• Present the medicated food to your cat.

4. Pill Pockets

• Pill pockets are soft treats with a hollow center that help in how to give pills to cats more easily.
• Insert the pill into the pocket and pinch the edges closed.
• Offer the pill pocket to your cat as a treat.

5. Hide in Wet Food

• Mix the crushed pill or liquid medication with a small amount of wet food.
• Ensure your cat eats the entire portion.

6. Compounding Medications

• Some pharmacies can create custom-flavored medications, making it more palatable for your cat.

Tips

Practice and Patience

If your cat is resistant, practice without the medication to desensitize them to the process for how to give pills to cats. Be patient and calm during the entire procedure.

Reward and Praise

Always offer positive reinforcement and a treat after giving medication. This associates the experience with something positive.

Ask for Help

If giving pills becomes too challenging, consider asking a friend or family member for assistance.

Understand Why Cats Resist being given pills

Cats often dislike being given pills for several reasons:

1. Taste and Smell: Many medications have a bitter or unpleasant taste and odor that cats can detect even when hidden in food or treats. Cats have a highly developed sense of smell, and they may refuse anything that smells “off” to them.
2. Texture: The texture of pills can be off-putting to cats. They may feel the foreign object in their mouth and instinctively want to spit it out.
3. Forceful Handling: Administering pills usually involves restraining the cat to some extent, which they may find uncomfortable or frightening. Cats generally prefer to be in control of their environment and their bodies.
4. Previous Negative Experiences: If a cat has had a negative experience with medication in the past, they may remember it and become more resistant in the future.
5. Stress and Anxiety: Many cats become anxious or stressed when they sense that something unusual is happening, such as being given medication. This can make them more difficult to handle.
6. Trust Issues: Cats are creatures of habit and may not trust changes in their routine or the introduction of something unfamiliar, like medication.

Conclusion

To make the process easier, it’s essential to use gentle and patient techniques, choose medications that are easier to administer, and consult with your veterinarian for alternative options, such as liquid medications or compounded medications with more palatable flavors.

Building trust with your cat through positive reinforcement can also help them become more accepting of the process over time.

Remember, consistency is key. Make the process as stress-free as possible for your cat, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian for guidance or alternative medications if your cat continues to resist

Photo by Tabitha Favor