Administering medication to pets can be a challenging task for many pet owners. Whether you’re trying to give a pill, apply a topical treatment, or administer liquid medication, it’s important to do so correctly to ensure your pet gets the full benefit of the treatment. At Creature Comforts Veterinary Service, we understand the difficulties and are here to provide guidance on how to make the process smoother and stress-free.

Different Types of Pet Medications and Techniques:

1. Administering Pills

Pills and tablets are some of the most common forms of medication for pets, but getting your pet to swallow them can be tricky. Here are a few methods to make the process easier:

  • Hide the Pill in Food: A common technique is to hide the pill in a treat, such as a piece of cheese or peanut butter. Make sure the food is safe for pets, and always check with your vet before using any human food.
  • Pill Pockets: Specially designed treats called pill pockets can make the process easier. Simply place the pill inside the treat and offer it to your pet.
  • Manual Administration: For pets that won’t eat the pill hidden in food, you may need to place the pill directly in their mouth. Open your pet’s mouth, place the pill on the back of their tongue, and gently rub their throat to encourage swallowing.

If your pet refuses to take the medication, contact Creature Comforts Veterinary Service for advice on alternative options.

2. Administering Liquid Medications

Liquid medications can be easier to administer, especially for pets that are resistant to pills:

  • Use a Syringe: Most liquid medications will come with a syringe. Hold your pet’s head gently, position the syringe between the cheek and back teeth, and squirt the liquid into the side of their mouth, ensuring you do it slowly to avoid choking.
  • Flavor Options: Some liquid medications come in flavors that are more appealing to pets. Ask your veterinarian if this is an option for your pet’s prescription.

For more information on the medications available at our clinic, check out our pharmacy services.

3. Administering Topical Medications

Topical treatments, such as ointments or flea and tick preventatives, are applied directly to your pet’s skin. Here’s how to do it properly:

  • Part the Fur: To apply the medication effectively, make sure you part your pet’s fur so that you can apply the product directly onto the skin.
  • Monitor Your Pet: Keep an eye on your pet to make sure they don’t lick or rub off the medication. You may need to use an Elizabethan collar or distract your pet until the medication has been absorbed.
  • Wash your hands after applying these medications: Whether you believe you got medication on your hands or not, you don’t want to accidentally treat yourself with a medication you weren’t prescribed and don’t need. 

If you’re unsure about the correct application method, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Creature Comforts Veterinary Service for further guidance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Crushing Pills Without Permission: Some medications are designed to be time-released. Crushing them could alter their effectiveness or even lead to an overdose. Always check with your veterinarian before altering the form of the medication.
  • Skipping Doses: Make sure to follow the prescribed schedule. Missing doses can reduce the effectiveness of the medication and may cause the condition to worsen.
  • Using Human Medications: Never administer human medications to your pet without consulting a veterinarian. Many drugs that are safe for humans can be toxic to animals.

For more advice on administering medication safely, visit our blog.

What to Do If Your Pet Refuses Medication:

If your pet consistently refuses to take their medication, it may be time to explore alternative options. Many medications can be compounded into different forms, such as flavored liquids, chews or transdermal gels, which may be easier for your pet to tolerate. Our team at Creature Comforts Veterinary Service is available to help you find the best solution for your pet.

Conclusion:

Administering medication to your pet can seem daunting, but with the right techniques and guidance, it can become a manageable part of your pet’s health routine. If you’re struggling with giving your pet medication or have questions about the best methods, we’re here to help. Please contact us!