How to give cat medicine-syrup?

(April 28, 2010)

Cats look for a lot of attention and love especially at times of illness. Some cats take medicine with ease where as some need a little fussing and a little persuasion as well. Cats move quickly and can run away and hide. Depending on the size pf the cat you can try different ways until you find one that works best for you and your cat. Always remember that cats are very sensitive to human moods and are alert to any stress. Therefore it is very important not to stress when you are getting ready to administer the medication. Try fussing and sweet-talking your cat as it makes it easier in getting him to trust you and then it is easier to administer the medication. Rewarding the cat, praising and flattering him will go a long way in ensuring that the next dose will be taken with much ease.

It is important to follow the veterinarians’ instruction when giving your cat any medication. A few tips to be kept in mind are:

• Always keep the prepared medicine close by within your reach.
• Try and hold the cat in your arms, wrap one arm around him and us the other free hand to open the mouth. In order to o open the cats mouth use the thumb and middle finger and press the corner of its mouth.
• Always remember rewarding the cat with something he likes most, helps the cat in swallowing the medication and makes the process easier.
• Do not push too much of the liquid medication into the cat’s throat, as it can enter the windpipe, and can cause choking and vomiting.
• Lastly, a full syringe of water helps to ensure that the cat has swallowed the medication.

When trying to administer liquids and syrups try this method: Shake the bottle well before drawing the required dosage with the help of a syringe or dropper. Then place the syringe or dropper between the cat’s teeth and cheek. Next hold the cat’s head with the left hand tilting it back a little. With the right hand place the dropper into the sides of the cat’s mouth slowly and gently squeeze out half of the dose. Continue to keep the mouth closed, stroking the throat gently or blow into the cat’s nostrils. When the smacking and swallowing stops. Repeat the process for the remaining dose. Wipe the cats muzzle with a damp paper towel. Rinse the dropper with clean water and refrigerate the medication.