How to Feed Liquid to a Cat with a Syringe

Your cat is getting older and its appetite is failing. It is eating less and less and now you really aren't sure if it's eating at all. Don't wait until it completely stops eating to intervene. Cats that completely stop eating process their own fat for energy and that leads to hepatic lipidosis, or fatty liver disease. Once fatty liver disease starts, the cat may become seriously ill; you must start syringe feeding before this happens.

Things You'll Need

  • Strainer
  • Feeding syringe
  • Spoon
  • Towel
  • Paper towels
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Instructions

    • 1

      Puree your cat's dry food with chicken broth in your blender until it has the consistency of paste. Be careful not to make it too thin or it will make a mess when you feed the cat and many cats dislike being messy.

    • 2

      Spoon the paste into the syringe.

    • 3

      Wrap your cat in a towel so its feet are securely wrapped inside. This will prevent it from wiggling loose and scratching you.

    • 4

      Open your cat's mouth by gently prying its jaw open with your finger. Don't be alarmed if your cat doesn't like this; it will struggle the first few feedings.

    • 5

      Place the syringe in the side of its mouth. Squeeze 1/2 ml of food into its mouth.

    • 6

      Remove the syringe and give the cat a moment to swallow the food. If your cat is a fastidious eater, wipe any excess food from its mouth with a paper towel in between squirts.

    • 7

      Stop feeding when your cat has eaten a few times and seems ready to quit. Wipe its face and release it from the towel.