Tips to make medication time calmer for you and your pet
Have you ever had to give medication to your pet? It is completely normal to find this moment challenging. In fact, most pet owners feel the same way. If this situation is stressful for you, it is just as stressful for your pet. Fortunately, there are several ways to make the experience more pleasant for both of you!
1. Why do animals react?
First, it is important to understand the different reasons why an animal might react or become nervous when it is time to take medication. By understanding these causes, you will be better prepared and able to prevent negative reactions.
Taste and smell
Animals generally have highly developed senses, especially smell. A pill that seems odorless to a human may have a strong scent to an animal. The taste and smell of medication can therefore make administration more difficult.
Past experiences
Animals have strong experiential memory, meaning they can remember positive or negative experiences for a long time. Medication administration is no exception: your pet may react negatively simply because it remembers a previous unpleasant experience.
Their owner’s state of mind
Animals are sensitive to their owner’s emotional state. If you are nervous, your pet can feel it. That is why it is important to remain calm and confident when administering medication.
2. Creating a calm atmosphere
Once the causes of stress have been identified, the next step is to create the right environment and atmosphere for administering medication.
The moment
Choose the right time. Many experts recommend giving medication after exercise, such as after a walk or play session. However, wait a few minutes to allow the animal to calm down. Trying to give medication to an excited animal will only make things more difficult.
The environment
Once the moment is chosen, maintain a calm setting. Speaking softly and using slow, gentle movements can help keep the animal relaxed.
The owner’s attitude
Throughout the process, it is important to remain calm and confident. Showing anger or anxiety will only worsen the situation.
3. Administration techniques
Here are a few useful techniques you can try. As your pet improves, make sure to encourage progress. For more details, see our article: “Discover Effective Methods to Make Medication Time Easier for Your Pet.”
For dogs
A common method is to hide the medication in food or a treat. Choose something your dog loves and doesn’t get often so that it feels like a reward. If the dog tends to chew, this method may be less effective due to the medication’s taste being detected.
Some medications can be crushed and mixed into food. If so, make sure your pet eats the full amount to receive the complete dose.
For cats
The techniques are similar to those used for dogs. However, cats usually chew more than dogs, which can make hiding medication in treats less effective. At all times, stay calm, patient, and keep your movements minimal.
4. Creating a positive routine
Encourage your pet
At the end of medication time, praise your pet — even if everything wasn’t perfect. This helps build a positive routine and gradually teaches your pet to associate medication with something pleasant.
Avoid reprimands
To protect your bond with your pet, avoid punishment or harsh commands. If needed, try again later when the situation is more favorable.
In conclusion
Giving medication to your pet may feel overwhelming at first, but with patience and the right techniques, it becomes easier. By staying calm, choosing the right moment, and rewarding your pet, you can transform medication time into a peaceful moment for both of you. With time, your pet will gain confidence and it may even become a moment of bonding and comfort.