If you've ever had to give your pet a pill, you know it can turn into a major cat fight [1]. Unfortunately, giving cats and dogs their medicine is something that can't be avoided, but we want to help you stay on your pet's good side [2] by making the process a bit simpler for both of you.
POPSUGAR spoke with Dr. Gary Richter [3], DVM, a holistic pet veterinarian in Oakland, CA, to get his best tips for safely getting your cat or dog to do something even most humans don't like doing: take their medicine. With Dr. Richter's expert advice, you can stop struggling to get your pet to take their meds and sneak in a little more cuddle time [4].
Try Pill Pockets
If your pet always comes running when it's treat time, you can actually utilise special pill pocket treats (available for both dogs [5] and cats [6]) to hide their medicine. These treats have a small space where you can insert the pill and keep it hidden from your pet. Then, they'll scarf it down, not realising they've just inadvertently eaten the pill, too!
Add It to Their Food Bowl
If your pet treats every meal like a competitive-eating contest, the solution to getting them to take their meds may be as simple as adding it to their food bowl [7]. Try placing the pill in their food, and be sure to check after they finish to ensure they swallowed it.
Hide It in People Food
Most pets jump (literally) at the chance to get a taste of your food [8], so why not use it to your advantage? "You can hide the pill in something yummy like cream cheese or meat," Dr. Richter told POPSUGAR. "This method can be a little tougher with cats because they are harder to bribe with food, but it can be done." A word of caution — speak with your vet to be sure the food you plan to bribe them with is safe for your pet to eat before trying this method.
"Pill" Your Pet
"You can also 'pill' your pet, meaning you put the pill directly into your pet's mouth and get them to swallow it [9]," Dr. Richter said. However, for this method, he recommends you consult with your veterinarian on how to do this safely, since it could be harmful to both your pet and you. Give your vet a call to discuss!
Ask For an Alternative
If you've tried everything and your pet simply refuses to cooperate, there may be an alternative. "It really depends on the medication being given. For example, some antibiotics can be given by injection, while others can be mixed with flavoured liquids or treats that pets are more likely to take," Dr. Richter advised. If you're ready to throw up your hands, talk to your vet and see if any of these options are available to you.