Giving your pet medication can seem daunting, but with the right preparation, approach, and technique, you can turn a hair-raising experience into a real treat. Whether your pet needs medication for a short-term illness or a long-term condition, follow our Animal Medical Center of Marquette team’s tips to ensure you do so as safely and effectively as possible.

Follow our veterinarian’s instructions

Always follow the instructions provided by our veterinary team as well as those printed on the medication label. These instructions—which include dosage, frequency, duration, administration (e.g., with or without food), and storage—are crucial to your pet’s safety and the treatment’s efficacy. Finally, never give your pet any medication, including over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, or your or another pet’s prescription medication, without first consulting our veterinarian.

Prepare your pet’s medication and supplies

Always gather any supplies you will need to medicate your pet before you begin the process or bring your pet to the area where you’ll be working. Supplies may include the medication, syringes, droppers, food to conceal the medication, towels or blankets to help restrain your pet, a muzzle, and tasty treats to reward your pet. Having all your supplies ready and easily accessible helps ensure a smooth and less stressful experience for you and your pet. 

Reassure your pet by being calm and confident

Your pet can sense your emotions, especially fear, anxiety, and stress, so you must remain calm and confident while interacting with them. If you’re feeling uncertain, rehearse—mime—the process a few times without your pet before inviting them into the room. If you still feel unsure, contact our Animal Medical Center of Marquette team for additional assistance or to request a technician appointment where our team can demonstrate the medication administration process, and provide real-time coaching and suggestions.

Find the most comfortable position for you and your pet

Depending on the medication and your pet’s size, you may choose to administer the medication while your pet is standing, sitting, or lying down. Consider your pet’s preferences and their tolerance for restraint, as well as your ability to lift, handle, and restrain your pet, then experiment to find the most comfortable and secure position for you both. Ask a friend or family member for assistance if your pet is too large or too stressed for you to manage alone. 

Use appealing food rewards to hide your pet’s pills, capsules, and tablets

Soft foods with a strong odor can help conceal oral medications. However, because these foods may be unfamiliar to your pet, stick with small amounts. Popular favorites include:

  • Cheese
  • Peanut butter without xylitol
  • Cream cheese
  • Commercial pill treats
  • “Meatballs” made with wet pet food
  • Solidified coconut oil 
  • Hot dogs or deli meats
  • Marshmallows

When using food rewards to hide your pet’s medication, always give your pet a “blank” treat first, followed by the medication, then another “blank” treat. In addition, if your pet has food sensitivities or allergies, or is on a special diet, check with our veterinarian before wrapping your pet’s medication in a food they don’t usually eat. 

Reward your pet for cooperation and good behavior

Unless your pet’s medication must be given on an empty stomach, give them small high-value treats to reward their good behavior after successfully administering their medication. Treats, in addition to gentle praise, can make the medication process enjoyable for your pet and help them associate desirable behavior with a fun reward—making them more likely to continue behaving appropriately in the future. Ensure the greatest cooperation by rewarding your pet before, during, and after the medication administration process.

Be gentle and patient with your pet

Medication administration can be frightening for pets, especially if the task requires restraint or unfamiliar tools (e.g., a dropper, bottle, or syringe) or the medication has an unpleasant flavor or texture. If your pet seems unusually stressed or nervous, take a break and try again later. If the stress continues or you are concerned your pet will hurt you or themselves, contact our team. Depending on your pet’s condition and prescription, an alternative medication type (e.g., liquid, injectable, or flavored chewable) may be available.

Never force your pet to take their medication

Your pet’s medication is important, but you should never administer it forcefully. Forcefully administering medication (e.g., holding their mouth closed, cornering your pet, or forcefully restraining them) can lead to injury and may cause your pet to become more fearful and resistant in the future.

Medicating pets can be challenging, but with our Animal Medical Center of Marquette team’s advice and guidance—and some thoughtful at-home preparation—you can confidently administer your pet’s prescription and feel good about giving them the best possible care. For additional pet care tips or to schedule an appointment, contact our caring team.