Pets 101: How do I give my cat or dog a pill?

July 15, 12:12 PMPittsburgh Animal Health ExaminerAlexis Jenny

Previous Next

1 comment Print Email RSS Subscribe

Subscribe

Get alerts when there is a new article from the Pittsburgh Animal Health Examiner. Read Examiner.com's terms of use.

Email Address   Include other special offers from Examiner.com Terms of Use

AP/ Yanina Manolova

A simple medication can quickly turn into a disaster if you're not sure how to administer it. Many pharmaceutical companies have created chewable versions of oral medication for one reason: it can be very difficult to give an animal a pill. If you're struggling, you're not alone.

Cats can be tricky with almost anything, and pills are no exception. The hide-a-pill-in-food technique rarely works on cats because they are often picky eaters. Some pharmacies and most pet stores sell “pill poppers.” These work like a syringe and allow access to your pet's mouth without putting your hands in danger. Simply draw back the barrel and insert the pill. Scruff your cat (grasp the skin on the back of the neck and shoulder area) and tilt its head back gently. Insert the end of the popper into the corner of the cat's mouth. You may have to persuade the cat to open its mouth by gently prodding. Move the end of the popper toward the back of the cat's throat, but not down it's throat. Then push the barrel in to release the pill, remove the popper from the cat's mouth, and watch until you see the cat swallow. Slowly release the cat from your grasp. Do not allow your cat to tilt its head downward before swallowing, or its likely to spit out the pill.

You can give a dog a pill in the same way, but you will not use the scruff method to restrain a dog. You may need to hold the dog's mouth open, however. For dog's that are resisting you, place your fingers in the sides of the dog's mouth, far back enough that you won't be able to feel the dog's teeth. This action causes most dogs to open their mouths instinctively. Then insert the pill (using either a popper or your hands) far back toward the throat and close the dog's mouth. Hold your dog's muzzle shut until you see the dog swallow.

Some dogs are willing to eat pills mixed with dog food or treats. A small piece of cheese or a bit of peanut butter can effectively hide a pill. Use the method that works best for your animal.