Giving your cat a tablet isn’t always the easiest thing but at some point in their life they will need either a worming tablet or other medication. So here are some helpful how to tips to help you give your cat a tablet.
1. Firstly, always check the medication and make sure you are giving the right dose. If you are unsure or have any questions contact your veterinarian.
2. Either try having your cat in a sitting position or have someone else hold them. Cats can be quite agile and quick, so it is often easier if you have another person to help hold them and keep their front legs held down so they don’t scratch.
3. Place one hand over the top of the head and ears, then tilt their head back slightly which will cause them to open their mouth.
4. Hold the tablet between the thumb and index finger of the other hand, and open their mouth by gently tilting their head up and gently pushing on the lower jaw if needed.
5. Place the tablet at the back of the throat, as far down as you can safely reach. If you find this difficult, a Pet Piller is a useful tool to have as it helps get the tablet down the throat further and saves your fingers.
6. Close their mouth and hold it shut, keeping it tilted upwards, while rubbing the outside if their throat to get them to swallow.
7. Ensure the tablet has been swallowed, so watch them for a minute or two after as some pets learn to hold the tablet in their mouth and spit it out later. Giving them a treat as soon as you let go makes them eat and swallow but also provides positive reinforcement.
8. Make sure you praise them with lots of cuddles and pats for doing well and taking their tablet.
If this is too difficult you can always try putting the tablet in a bit of food like cheese, meat or sausage and see if they will just take it like a treat. Otherwise, see if a chewable tablet is available that they may just happily eat.
Originally published in My Pet Magazine Winter 2014.
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