Tips for effectively Administering Pet Medication
Trying to slip a pill between your pet's clenched teeth just might be one of the hardest pet-related tasks you'll ever perform. The experience can be difficult and frustrating for both of you and may prevent your pet from receiving much-needed medication.
Use these tip to help make the process easier and less stressful for both you and your furry family member.
Step-By-Step Guide To Giving Meds To Pets
If your pet's veterinarian has prescribed pills, follow these steps:
Place the bill between your index finger and thumb
Tilt the pet's head back slightly to make it easier to swallow the pill
Lift the upper jaw using the middle and ring fingers
Drop the pill into the center of your pet's tongue and close the jaw
Gently rub the throat to encourage swallowing
Use a pill applicator if you are having difficulty placing the pill in your pet's mouth. The device places the pill in the back of the mouth for easy swallowing
If you'll be giving your pet liquid medication:
Don't tilt their head back, as this position may cause choking. After you open your pet's jaw, squirt the medicine in the side of the mouth.
Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. If a friend or family member isn't available to hold your pet, wrap your dog, cat, rabbit or small animal in a towel or blanket to limit squirming and prevent injuries.
Get Creative!
It may not be practical to use the above method if your pet is very large or difficult to control, even if you have help.
Hiding whole pills or liquid medication in food or treats may offer a simple way to ensure that your pet receives the medication.
The food you choose should be large enough to conceal the medication completely and tasty enough to tempt your pet. Buy treats that contain pill pockets or hide medication in foods your pet enjoys, such as tuna, canned meat, peanut butter, cream cheese, baby food or wet pet food.
Please do not crush pills without speaking to your veterinarian first, as some medication may not be as effective if it's crushed.
Try Pet-Approved Flavors
Beef, chicken, or fish flavors can be added to some medications to make them more attractive to pets. If your pet takes medication that contains one of these flavors, be sure to store the container in a safe place to prevent an accidental overdose.
Don't Share Medications
Dosage amounts vary depending on the size and type of pet. A therapeutic dose of a medication for your large dog may sicken your cat or smaller dog. In some cases, your pet may be prescribed the same drug that you take. Although it may be tempting to save a little money by offering by your dog or pet half of one of your pills, the dosage may still be much too strong for your pet.
Some medications intended for use by humans can be toxic for pets. Aleve, Motrin, or Advil may help your aches and pains but can cause stomach and intestinal ulcers and kidney failure in pets, according to the Pet Poison Helpline. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can cause red blood cell damage in cats and dogs and liver failure in dogs.
Before giving your pet any drug intended for humans, please check with your veterinarian first.
A Few Things To Remember
Keep these things in mind when your pet is taking medication:
Follow Instructions Carefully. Some medications should be taken with or without food or water. If you don't follow these instructions, the medicine may not work as well or could cause stomach upset. It's also important to give doses at the intervals noted on the label.
Use The Entire Prescription. Your pet may begin to feel better a few days after starting a medication. Unfortunately, the symptoms may return if you don't give your pet all of the prescribed pills or liquid medication. If you are considering stopping your pet’s medication, please first consult with your veterinarian.
Be Alert For Side Effects. Pets can experience side effects from medications just as people can. Ask your pet's veterinarian to describe common side effects and explain which effects are serious and warrant a call to the office.
Do you have any questions about your pet's medication or symptoms? Your local Thrive Pet Healthcare veterinarian will be happy to help,
find your nearest location and give us a call today!
This article was written in collaboration with our partners at Care and Comfort Veterinary Hospital
