Liquid Antibiotics for Cats

Often, certain diagnoses require administration of liquid antibiotics for cats. Giving liquid antibiotics may be a harrowing process considering the stress level the cat may already be experiencing. There are a few key tips to follow which may help make the application of liquid antibiotics for cats a much easier process.

Antibiotics Mixed with Food

It may be possible to simply mix liquid antibiotics for cats with their food at mealtime. If your cat has a favorite flavor of wet, canned food, simply try adding the proper dosage of liquid antibiotics. Often, however, cats can detect the smell of the antibiotics and will refuse to eat. Make sure the food you are serving has a strong aroma. A strong fish or tuna smell may help to overpower the odor of the antibiotics.

Secure the Cat

If you need to apply the liquid antibiotics for cats directly, without mixing with food, it will probably be necessary to secure the cat to avoid scratching, clawing, biting or escape. This procedure may be easier if you have a helper, but can be done effectively by one person. Depending upon preference, you may want to wrap the cat in a towel to prevent scratching, or place the cat on a slippery surface like a tabletop, or washer/dryer, to prevent escape. Hold the cat close to your body, facing away from you.

Use a Syringe or Eyedropper

If you plan to give the antibiotics directly, the use of a plastic syringe or eyedropper will be necessary to administer the proper dosage. Using one of these tools will make it much easier for you to get all of the medication into the cat's mouth. Have the medication prepared and ready, and once the cat is secured tightly in your arms, or the arms of a helper, make sure to approach the cat from behind or from the side. Point the end of the syringe or eyedropper into the corner of the mouth and squirt slowly, to prevent the cat from choking or vomiting. Do not put the medication directly down the throat. While squirting the medication, a few drops at a time, lightly rub the bottom of the cat's chin to help aid the swallowing process.

Reward with Treats

Have your cat's favorite treat or toy readily available once the process is complete. A favorite treat will help take the displeasing taste away, and a favorite toy will distract the cat and uplift the spirits. Praising your cat immediately will help lessen the stress for both you and your cat.

Be Consistent

Especially in the case of long-term necessity for liquid antibiotics for cats, you'll want to be consistent with your administration of medication. Allow some time for both you and the cat to learn the easiest and most relaxing method during this process. Always stay calm, and always try to stick to the same schedule. Be gentle and praise the cat, but stay in control of the situation. Once your cat realizes that this is a long-term, but painless process, the cat should relax and become less stressed at medication time.  

 

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