Tips for Giving Oral Medications to Dogs and Cats | Express Vets Kennesaw

Administering oral medications to your pet can feel like a daunting task. Whether it's a pill, capsule, or liquid, many pet owners struggle with finding a way to get their furry friends to take their medicine without a fuss. At Express Vets Kennesaw, we understand how challenging this can be and want to help make the process smoother and less stressful for both you and your pet.

The key to successfully giving oral medications to dogs and cats is patience and preparation. Start by reading the medication instructions carefully and following any guidance provided by your veterinarian. Some medications need to be given with food, while others are more effective on an empty stomach. Knowing the correct method will help ensure the medication works as intended.

For dogs, try disguising the medication in something they love to eat. Soft treats like cheese, peanut butter, or specially made pill pockets can often do the trick. Make sure to choose a food your dog enjoys and that is safe for them to eat. Gently hide the pill in the treat, and offer it as a normal snack. If your dog is suspicious or tends to chew their treats thoroughly, it may help to give a few treats without medication first, to create a positive association. Then, sneak the medicated treat in the middle or end of the snack session.

Cats, on the other hand, can be a bit trickier. Many cats are highly sensitive to changes in their food, so they might notice a hidden pill or capsule immediately. One approach is to use a flavorful paste or gel made specifically for administering pills to cats. These are available in different flavors and can help mask the taste of the medication. You can also try crushing the pill (if approved by your vet) and mixing it with a small amount of wet food, tuna juice, or another irresistible treat. Just be sure to check with your vet first, as some medications should not be crushed or opened.

If your pet refuses to take their medication with food, you might need to use a more hands-on approach. For dogs, gently hold their muzzle with one hand, tilt their head back slightly, and place the pill at the back of their tongue. Close their mouth and gently rub their throat to encourage swallowing. For cats, approach calmly and wrap them in a towel or blanket, leaving only their head exposed. Use your thumb and forefinger to open their mouth, and quickly place the pill at the back of their tongue. Then, close their mouth and stroke their throat or blow gently on their nose to stimulate swallowing.

It is essential to remain calm and gentle throughout this process. Pets can easily pick up on your anxiety, which may make them more resistant to taking their medicine. Speaking in a soothing tone, offering reassurance, and rewarding them with praise or treats afterward can help make the experience more positive.

If you find giving oral medications is still too challenging, reach out to our team at Express Vets Kennesaw. We can provide you with additional tips and tricks tailored to your pet's unique needs. There may also be alternative medication forms available, such as chewable tablets, flavored liquids, or even transdermal gels that can be applied to the skin. Our goal is to ensure your pet receives the treatment they need in the least stressful way possible.

Remember, giving oral medication to your dog or cat doesn’t have to be a battle. With a bit of preparation, a calm approach, and maybe a little creativity, you can help your pet stay healthy and happy while ensuring they get the medication they need.

Contact Express Vets Kennesaw today at (678) 401-5579 or visit us at 4200 Wade Green Rd. Suite 100,Kennesaw, GA 30144 to learn more tips for giving oral medications to your pet or to discuss alternative medication options. We’re here to make caring for your pet as stress-free as possible!