A Step-by-Step Guide

We know that giving your cat medication can feel like a daunting task — and you're not alone in finding it tricky! Cats are famously independent creatures, and convincing them to take a tablet or liquid medicine isn't always straightforward. The good news? With a little patience and the right technique, it can become much easier for both of you. Here's our friendly guide to help you through it.

Before You Start: A Few Important Things to Keep in Mind

• Always check with us first. Some medications need to be given with food, while others work best on an empty stomach. When in doubt, give us a call before you begin.
• Ask for a demonstration. Our team is always happy to show you how to administer medication safely and calmly — just ask at your next appointment.
• Consider having a helper. Having a second person on hand — one to hold your cat gently while the other gives the medication — can make the whole process much smoother.
• Watch out for scratches and bites. Even the most loving cat can react if they feel stressed. If you're struggling or getting hurt, please contact us straight away rather than pushing through.
• Take stress seriously. If medicating your cat is causing them real distress, let us know. Ongoing stress can actually slow their recovery, and we may be able to suggest alternatives.

Giving Your Cat a Tablet

There are two main approaches: hiding the tablet in food, or giving it directly by hand.

Option 1: Hiding the Tablet in Food

This is often the easiest route, as long as your vet has confirmed the tablet can be given with food.

1. Make sure your cat is hungry. If appropriate, remove food for around 12 hours beforehand so they're motivated to eat.
2. Try offering the tablet on its own first (especially if it's a palatable, flavoured tablet). Pop it on the tip of your finger and offer it to your cat — some will take it happily, others won't, and that's okay!
3. Hide it in something tasty. Soft cheese, a small piece of cooked fish or meat, or a specially designed pill pocket treat can work brilliantly. The trick is to use just a small amount of food to hide the tablet — you want them to eat it all in one go.
4. Follow up with the rest of their meal. Once the tablet has been eaten, offer the remainder of their food as normal. If they need a second dose later in the day, hold back a portion of food beforehand so they're still motivated.

Option 2: Giving the Tablet by Hand

If your cat won't take the tablet hidden in food, you'll need to give it directly. Don't worry — with a calm approach, this is very manageable.

1. Choose a stable surface. A non-slip floor or tabletop works well. Have everything you need to hand before you start.
2. Position your cat facing away from you. Let them sit upright in front of you while you kneel or sit behind them.
3. Gently restrain them. Place your hands softly on either side of your cat, holding each front leg just above the elbow. This keeps them steady and prevents them from wriggling free, without causing any discomfort.
4. Open the mouth and place the tablet. Tilt your cat's head back gently with one hand, and use a finger from the other hand to open their lower jaw. Drop the tablet as far back on the tongue as possible, then close the mouth and hold it gently while stroking their throat to encourage swallowing.
5. If they spit it out — stay calm and try again! A pill giver (a small plastic device available from us or pet shops) can make this step easier and keep your fingers out of the way.
6. Offer water or a small treat afterwards. Some medications can be irritating to the oesophagus, so a little water or a treat after the tablet can help. Check with us whether this applies to your cat's medication.

Giving Your Cat Liquid Medication

The good news is that liquid medications follow a very similar process to tablets.

• Try mixing it with a small amount of food first (only if your vet says this is okay). A liquid treat or a teaspoon of something your cat loves can mask the taste beautifully.
• Avoid mixing it into their main meal. If they don't finish their food, you won't know how much medication they've had — and it may put them off their food entirely.
• If needed, use a syringe. Follow the same gentle restraint steps as above, then slide the tip of the syringe into the side of your cat's mouth (between the cheek and the teeth). Slowly press the plunger, giving them time to swallow as you go. Take it slowly — there's no rush!

When to Reach Out to Us

Please never hesitate to contact us at Fenton's if:

• You're finding it difficult or your cat is becoming very distressed
• You're unsure whether a dose has been given successfully
• You notice any unusual reactions after giving the medication
• You simply need a bit of reassurance or a refresher on technique

We're here to help, and there's no such thing as a silly question when it comes to your cat's health and wellbeing. Sometimes a small adjustment — like a different formulation or administration method — can make a world of difference.

Medicating a cat takes practice, and it's completely normal for it to feel a little awkward at first. Be patient with yourself and your cat, keep things as calm and positive as possible, and remember that every dose you give is a step towards them feeling better.

If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to get in touch with our team — we're always happy to help.

This article was inspired by guidance originally published by International Cat Care (iCatCare), a leading authority on feline health and welfare. We're grateful for the excellent resources they provide to cat owners and veterinary professionals worldwide.