Fentanyl patches are a specific type of transdermal patch, sometimes also referred to as a pain patch or skin patch. A pain control medication known as fentanyl is contained within the patch. The patch is attached to the skin with a medical adhesive, and the medication is then distributed through the skin.
Fentanyl patches are frequently used in cats to control pain associated with a chronic disease, a painful injury or a surgical procedure. Cat owners may need to remove a fentanyl patch that has been placed on their cat. Fortunately, the removal process is simple.
Things You'll Need
- Latex gloves
- Paper towels
- Corn oil or olive oil
Instructions
Wear gloves when handling or removing the fentanyl pain patch. The patches contain medicine that can be absorbed through human skin as well as feline skin.
While holding the skin adjacent to the fentanyl patch taut, grasp the leading edge of the fentanyl patch and pull the pain patch backwards in a swift, steady motion. If the patch is sticking to the skin firmly and is difficult to remove, apply corn oil or olive oil to the underside of the patch to dissolve the glue holding the patch in place.
Fold the used fentanyl patch in half with the sticky surfaces facing inward so that the adhesive surface is completely covered.
Wrap the folded fentanyl pain patch in several layers of paper towels.
Rinse hands thoroughly with water to remove drug residue. Using soap, hand cleanser or any other type of solvent is not recommended.
Contact the veterinarian who prescribed the fentanyl patch for instructions regarding disposing of the patch. Fentanyl is a controlled substance and disposal regulations vary from state to state.