Administering medications to pets can be a stressful activity for pet owners. Thankfully, we have some tips to help you out.
Administering medications to pets can be a challenging task for many pet owners. Whether it’s a daily pill, a topical ointment, or a liquid medication, ensuring that your pet receives the correct dosage is crucial for their health and well-being. We have some tips on how you can make this a little easier for both yourself and your furry companion.
Understand the Medication
Before attempting to give any medications to your pet, it’s important to fully understand the instructions provided by your veterinarian. Know the correct dosage, the frequency of administration, and any potential side effects. This knowledge will help you monitor your pet for any adverse reactions and ensure they receive the full benefit of the treatment.
Choose the Right Time
Administering medications at the same time each day can help establish a routine for your pet. Choose a time when your pet is calm and relaxed, such as after a meal or during a quiet period of the day. This consistency can make the process less stressful for both you and your pet.
Use the Right Tools
Using the appropriate tools can make the administration of medications to pets easier and more effective. For pills, a pill pocket or a pill popper can be helpful. Pill pockets are treats with a built-in pocket for holding a pill, making it easier for your pet to swallow the medication without noticing. A pill popper is a tool that helps you place the pill directly into your pet’s throat, reducing the risk of them spitting it out.
A syringe or dropper is often provided for liquid medications. Practice using these tools with water to ensure smooth medication administration.
Hide the Medication
Hiding the medication in food is a common and effective method for many pets. You can use soft treats, cheese, peanut butter, or specially-designed pill pockets. Ensure that the food you choose is safe for your pet and that it doesn’t interfere with the medication’s efficacy. For liquid medications, mixing them with a small amount of wet food can be effective.
Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement can make a big difference in how your pet responds to medication time. Praise your pet and offer them a treat after they successfully take their medication. This can help create a positive association with the process and make future administrations easier.
Proper Restraint
Some pets may require gentle restraint to safely administer medication. For smaller pets, you can wrap them in a towel, leaving only their head exposed. This method, often called “the burrito,” can help calm them and prevent them from scratching or wriggling away. For larger pets, enlisting the help of another person to hold them still can be beneficial.
Be Calm and Confident
Pets can sense your emotions, so it’s important to stay calm and confident when administering medication. Speak in a soothing voice and handle your pet gently but firmly. If you appear anxious or hesitant, your pet may become more stressed and uncooperative.
Practice Makes Perfect
If you’re new to administering medications to your pet, practice can help build your confidence and skill. You can practice with a piece of food or a treat to mimic the process without the pressure of using real medication. This can also help your pet get used to the routine.
Consult Your Veterinarian
If you encounter any difficulties or if your pet refuses to take their medication, consult your veterinarian. They can offer alternative methods or formulations, such as flavored medications or compounded forms that are easier to administer. Never adjust the dosage or stop the medication without consulting your vet.
Monitor Your Pet
After administering the medication, monitor your pet for any signs of adverse reactions or side effects. If you notice any unusual behavior, contact your veterinarian immediately. It’s also important to ensure that your pet actually swallowed the medication and didn’t spit it out when you weren’t looking.
Trust Maryland Veterinary Surgical Services With Your Companion’s Health
Your companion’s health is important, and the team at MVSS is ready to provide the best care possible for your furry family. We are dedicated to combining comprehensive exams and assessments with informative and honest discussions of your companion’s care. Once we have worked with you to decide on the best course of action for your dog, our professionals will use their surgical expertise to work towards the goal of giving your companion an active and pain-free life. We are proud to serve loyal companions in Catonsville and Baltimore. To learn more about our services, give us a call at 410-788-4088 or visit us online. For more information and tips for dog health, follow us on Facebook and Pinterest.