How to medicate your cat

Medicine may come in the following formulations:-

  • Tablets.
  • Capsules – powder contained within a dissolvable gelatin container
  • Powder.
  • Liquids
  • Injections (insulin only)
  • Enemas/suppositories

Your vet will advise you whether it is important that the medication is given with food or on an empty stomach.

Always complete any course of treatment that is prescribed and follow the instructions that you are given with respect to the dose and timing of medication.

If you are concerned about your cats response to treatment or if any new signs develop then consult your veterinary surgeon as soon as possible.  In particular if the cat’s appetite diminishes or vomiting occurs, consult the vet.

Do not alter or stop therapy without consulting your veterinary surgeon since this may result in complications.

How can I medicate my cat?

It is important that your cat receives the prescribed medication and this may be achieved by one of the following:

1.      The medicine can be mixed with your cats food as long as it is not necessary to give the medicine on an empty stomach. This technique may be unsuccessful if it results in your cat being put off eating its food or if you have any other animals that may eat it. This method is most useful for dosing powders and syrups. Most tablets can be crushed and mixed with food, however some tablets are not designed to be crushed so check with your vet before doing this.  This is the least reliable way to medicate your cat.

2.      Small tablets may be hidden in a piece of your cats favourite food and offered as a treat. Cheese, butter and pieces of meat are common favourites.

3.      In diabetic cats insulin therapy may be needed. This usually involves daily subcutaneous injections of insulin and is a procedure that you will be trained to do if necessary.

4.      If enemas are prescribed, your vet will teach you how to administer these.

5.      Oral dosing may be the only technique by which you are able to guarantee successful medication. This usually requires two people with one person holding the cat while the other person administers the treatment.  This is the most reliable way to medicate your cat.

 

 

If you are having problems then get back to your vet as a matter of urgency as it is very important that medication is continued and given regularly.