Give your pet medicine! The frustration is real. You know their medicine- whether in the form of a pill, ointment, drops, or shots- is designed to help them, but some pets turn into a different beast when it comes to medication. Sound familiar?
Of course, there are some pets that eagerly and willing to accept their pills and medicines… consider yourself lucky.
Fortunately, there are effective methods to give your pet medicine that won’t leave you scratched or your pet traumatized.
Though sometimes it may require utilizing more than one technique once your smart pet has caught onto your plan! Although hiding a pill in food is common, some foods can affect the absorbency of – or negatively react with- the prescription.
Instead, try these 5 easy and safe ways to give your pet medicine…
- Vet demonstration. Since your veterinarian is familiar with your pet’s temperament, ask them to show you how to best administer the medication. Before leaving the office, practice giving a dose for your own confidence and for the vet to offer suggestions for your pet’s behavior changes.
- Reward them. Make it a positive experience and reward your pet with their favorite toy, treat, or activity after receiving their medication.
- Create a diversion. Utilizing a second person to distract your pet while applying ointments can reduce their impulse to pull away. Keep in mind that the afflicted area may be quite tender the first few days- use an extremely gentle touch.
- Work backward. When applying eye drops, sit behind your pet (or position them on your lap facing away from you) and gently raise their chin. If possible, massage their chin while carefully pulling back the eyelid and applying drops to the white part of the eye.
- Level praise. For pets that are averse to having their ears touched, coaxing them into cooperation may take a few levels of rewarding praise: touching their ears, massaging the tips of the ears, flipping the ears, looking into the ears before they’ll cooperate for ear drops.
Ensuring that your pet feels comfortable and safe can minimize their anxious, uncooperative, or agitated behavior when administering medication.
Finding a vet that provides the same level of care and love your pet receives at home is an essential part of their overall wellbeing.
Our compassionate veterinarians and staff are here to ease your concerns and offer guidance to keep your pets healthy and happy. We understand that your pets are a vital part of your family, that’s why we make you and your pets an extension of ours.
We are a family of pets, owners, and veterinary experts all dedicated to keeping your cherished pets healthy. Find us in Durham, NC and Hillsborough, NC at:
North Churton Animal Hospital in Hillsborough, NC – 919.644.7387
Durham Animal Hospital in Durham, NC – 919.620.7387
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