5 effective methods to make it easier to give medication to your pet

Giving medication to your pet can seem complicated at first. However, there are several strategies to make this moment more pleasant for both you and your animal. There are also several administration techniques that can make the process easier, which is what this article will focus on.

The different forms of medication

Medications can come in different formats. It is important to remember that the administration method may vary depending on the form.

Tablets and capsules

These are the most common forms for both humans and animals. Tablets can sometimes be crushed depending on the prescription, which is useful if an animal refuses to swallow or chew them. Once crushed, a tablet can be mixed with water and administered with a syringe. It is important to verify beforehand whether the tablet can be chewed or crushed, as this may not be recommended, especially for controlled-release tablets. Some capsules can also be opened, but this should be confirmed with a healthcare professional.

Capsules (gel form)

Less common and similar to tablets, but usually coated in a hard or soft gelatin shell. They are more difficult to break or crush for easier administration.

Paste

Useful especially when flavored with something the animal enjoys. It can be mixed with food or given directly into the animal’s mouth.

Transdermal patch

A formulation rarely used but very helpful to avoid repeated administrations, especially in uncooperative animals. The patch must be placed on a low-hair area and out of reach so the animal cannot remove it. Shaving a small patch of fur may be necessary to ensure adhesion.

Administration methods

There are several techniques that can be tried to safely and effectively administer medication to your pet.

Treat-pockets

This method involves hiding the medication inside a treat so the animal does not detect it. This is particularly effective for dogs, who often swallow without chewing. There are commercially available treats specifically designed to hide medication.

Three-treat method

Prepare three identical treats, with the medication hidden in one of them. Offer the three quickly, with the one containing the medication second. This often causes the animal to swallow the medication without realizing it, especially when the third treat follows immediately.

Hiding in soft food

Especially effective for cats or animals that chew their food.

Manual administration

Used as a last resort if the other techniques fail. It consists of placing the medication at the back of the animal’s throat. There are devices available to minimize the risk of biting or injury.

Syringe administration

Useful for liquid medications or for a tablet previously crushed and mixed with a bit of water. The process should be slow to give the animal time to swallow and avoid losing liquid.

If the animal refuses

Here are a few tips to try if your pet refuses the medication:

• Try a different form if available (for example, using a crushable tablet instead of a capsule).
• Add a flavor or mix with a food your pet enjoys.
• If possible, and after checking with your veterinarian, divide the dose into several smaller portions to reduce the volume at once.

Your pharmacist remains available to assist you and can offer personalized advice to find the best formulation for your animal and their temperament. They can also contact the veterinarian if needed.

It is important to remember that each animal is unique. Giving medication may be easy or more challenging depending on your pet. At all times, it is important to remain patient and encourage your companion. Your pharmacist is a healthcare professional who can help you if difficulties arise.