How to give your cat tablets

Giving your cat a tablet can be a challenge for many pet owners. Whether it’s for routine treatments or managing a specific illness, getting your cat to swallow a pill isn’t always straightforward. This guide will help you with tips on how to give a cat a tablet, along with advice for administering other forms of medication.

Why cats need tablets

There are several reasons why your cat might need medication. Cats may need tablets for treating infections, managing chronic illnesses, or for routine treatments like deworming or flea control. Common forms of medication include:

• Tablets: For conditions like infections or thyroid problems.
• Liquid medication: Often used when tablets are hard to give, for treating infections or digestive issues.
• Powders or pastes: Can be mixed with food.
• Flea and worming tablets: Essential for routine care.

Each type of medication requires a different method of administration, but getting your cat to cooperate can be tricky. Let’s break down how to give a cat a tablet and make it easier for you and your feline friend.

A step-by-step guide to giving your cat tablets

One of the most common methods to give cats tablets is hiding the pill in their food. You can also use special treats designed to wrap around the pill. However, not all medications can be taken with food, and some cats are clever enough to eat around the tablet. If this happens, you’ll need to give the tablet directly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to give a cat a tablet on your own.

1. Prepare the tablet: Have everything ready, including the tablet and a small bowl of water. You might also want some treats to reward your cat afterward.
2. Position your cat: Place your cat on a stable surface like a table. It’s often easier to do this with the cat facing away from you so they can’t back up or escape.
3. Hold their head gently: Using your thumb and forefinger, grasp around the nose, just behind their canine teeth. Tilt the head upwards slightly.
4. Insert the tablet: Hold the tablet between your thumb and forefinger of the other hand. Open their mouth by pressing down on the lower jaw and place the tablet as far back on the tongue as possible.
5. Encourage swallowing: Close their mouth and hold it gently closed. If your cat struggles to swallow, you can try gently squeezing some water into their mouth with a syringe, which will trigger the swallowing reflex.
6. Praise and reward: Once the tablet is swallowed, lift your cat off the table and reward them with treats or playtime.

Things to keep in mind

Cats have a long, narrow oral cavity. This means tablets can easily get stuck in their mouth, especially in the roof of the palate or the upper part of the oesophagus. To avoid this, try giving your cat a small amount of water before and after the tablet to help it go down smoothly. If your cat consistently has trouble swallowing tablets, ask your vet about alternative forms of the medication.

How to give a cat a worming tablet

Worming tablets are crucial for your cat’s health. Adult cats should typically be wormed every three months, but this can depend on their lifestyle. Outdoor cats or those who hunt may require more frequent treatment. You can hide the worming tablet in food or administer it directly. Always follow your vet’s advice and keep track of when the next dose is due.

How to give a cat a flea tablet

Flea tablets are another essential part of your cat’s healthcare routine. Flea infestations can be uncomfortable and lead to more serious health issues. Most flea tablets are given monthly, but check with your vet for specific guidance. The steps for administering flea tablets are the same as for other tablets.

How to give liquid medication to a cat

Some cats are more tolerant of liquid medication than tablets. Liquid medication is usually administered with a syringe. For specific instructions on how to give liquid medication to your cat, ask your vet. But typically, it may go something like this:

1. Fill the syringe: Measure the correct dose of liquid medication as prescribed by your vet.
2. Position your cat: Place your cat on a table or hold them securely in your lap. Gently tilt their head back.
3. Administer the medication: Insert the syringe into the corner of their mouth, aiming towards the back of the tongue. Slowly release the liquid.
4. Encourage swallowing: Hold your cat’s mouth closed briefly to help them swallow.
5. Reward your cat: Offer treats or play with your cat afterwards as positive reinforcement.

Tips for giving medication to cats

• Stay calm: Cats can sense stress, so stay as calm as possible to avoid stressing them out.
• Use a towel: If your cat tends to scratch or wriggle, wrapping them in a towel can help you keep control.
• Be patient: Some cats might need a few tries before they successfully take their medication.
• Tablet crushers or pill pockets: These can be helpful if your cat refuses to take tablets. Crush the tablet and mix it with food, or use pill pockets to hide the tablet in a treat.

What if your cat won’t take medication?

If you’ve tried multiple methods and your cat still won’t take their medication, contact your vet. They may be able to prescribe an alternative form, such as a liquid, paste, or even an injectable form of the medication. In some cases, your vet may show you how to give the medication directly, ensuring your cat gets the treatment they need.

How often do cats need medication?

How often you give your cat medication depends on their health condition. Some medications are one-off doses, such as a flea or worming tablet, while others may be needed daily for chronic illnesses. Always follow your vet’s instructions regarding how often to give medication.