How to Give Dropper Medication to a Cat

Most cats hate taking medication, and they can kick up an unbelievable amount of fuss. But it's important that your cat receive the full course of treatment that he's been prescribed, so no matter how much he hates it, you need to give him his medication. Liquid medicine in a dropper or a plastic syringe is sometimes easier to administer than pills or tablets. Be gentle with your kitty, and try to get it over with as quickly as possible. Working with a partner can make the procedure a lot easier.

Things You'll Need

  • Liquid medication
  • Dropper or plastic syringe
  • Partner
  • Cat treats (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Load the dropper or syringe with medication out of view of your cat. If your cat is scared and knows what's about it happen, she might run and hide.

    • 2

      Place the dropper or syringe wherever you are plan to administer the medicine. A bathroom is a good choice, since you can shut the door to keep the cat in, and any messes are easily cleaned up.

    • 3

      Pick up your cat and carry him to the bathroom. Speak softly and praise him. Cats can pick up on emotions and might become agitated if they sense that you are nervous, so be as calm and nonchalant as possible.

    • 4

      Set the cat on the floor next to the wall or closed door and gently straddle her with your legs. Do not put any pressure on her, but instead use your body to hold her in place.

    • 5

      Place your hand on the cat's head and gently lift up so that the head is slightly tilted back. Tilting the head back makes it harder for him to bite you. You might also need to restrain his front legs with your other hand, in which case your partner will be the one administering the medicine. (Alternately, your partner could hold the cat's front legs while you administer the medicine.)

    • 6

      Carefully insert the end of the dropper into your cat's jaw near the back of the mouth. Her mouth does not need to be open, and placing the dropper just inside the lips is usually fine.

    • 7

      Squirt the medicine slowly but steadily into the cat's mouth.

    • 8

      Hold the cat's mouth shut for 10 to 30 seconds, and gently rub the front of his throat to promote swallowing. Praise the cat and tell him what a good kitty he's being (even if he's not).

    • 9

      Let your cat go when you're sure the medicine has been swallowed. If possible, give her a treat afterward. Pet the cat if she'll allow it, but do not force any interaction after giving her the medication. She'll probably want to go take a bath or sulk under the couch for a while, and she will forgive you on her own time.