How to Apply Topical Medications for Cats

Topical medications for cats can be used for routine treatments, such as flea and tick control, or for specialized cases as ointments where wounds or sores are present. Many topical medications come with an applicator; others call for a cotton tip or swab for application. When applying a topical medication on a cat, do so in a place on its body where it cannot lick off the medication. The optimal spot for topical medication application is on the back of the neck.

Things You'll Need

  • Cotton swab or applicator
  • Elizabethan collar (optional)
  • Medication
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Instructions

  1. Flea or Tick Treatment

    • 1

      Hold your cat firmly. She can be sitting, standing or lying, so long as she is still.

    • 2

      Part the fur on the back of her neck so that the skin is exposed in a line.

    • 3

      Place the applicator directly onto the skin, and squeeze until all the medication is out. Avoid getting the medication on her fur.

    Wound Treatment

    • 4

      Squeeze a dab of medication onto a cotton swab.

    • 5

      Hold your cat firmly so that he is still. This might be more difficult where a wound is present, because he will be sensitive to it. Fast application is the key.

    • 6

      Part the fur around the wound. Apply the medication directly to the wound.

    • 7

      Place the Elizabethan collar around the cat's neck, if the wound is in a place where he will lick it.