Medicating your fur friend

Top tips from Petfirst Veterinary.

Whether it's a short-term medication, long-term support, or a proactive supplement, this can be a simple, bonding activity for you both.

1. Create a calm space - including you! 
   Cats will feel more secure in a quiet room with minimal movement, noise or other pets. Both cats and dogs are experts at reading your mood so stay calm, upbeat and relaxed and they’ll relax too.
   
   
2. Go slow and offer breaks and reassurance.
   If your pet shows signs of tension or tries to move away, pause and give them a moment. Use gentle and secure handling - a soft towel for cats and a stable surface for all pets will help them feel safe and secure. Never force or shout - take the time to make this a positive experience from the start and medicating will get easier and easier.
   
   
3. Build a simple and happy routine.
   Offer medication at roughly the same time each day and create a routine that your pet will enjoy. Cats recognise consistency and will love knowing what to expect. For dogs, choose a time or activity they already love - walks, mealtime, snuggle times - so that your pet begins to associate their medication with a no-stress, pleasant experience.
   
   
4. Check medication labels and recommendations.
   Check whether medications need to be given with a meal, after food or on an empty stomach. This helps the medication work properly and reduces tummy upset.
   
   
5. Reward and celebrate achievement.
   Finish the session with your fur friend’s favourite treat, gentle pats or playtime and they’ll look forward to the next one! If you can hide oral treatments in their favourite treat, your fur friend will look forward to the experience even more.
   
   
6. Get help from your Petfirst team.
   Check out these step-by-step instructions and videos to see great techniques for giving oral tablets and capsules, oral liquids, eye or ear medications or spot-on treatments. You’re never alone! If anything feels tricky, reach out to your local Petfirst Veterinary team for more resources or in-person help.

Sometimes, things don't go to plan. Don't panic, just try again!

If your fur friend hides or becomes stressed or reactive, take a break and try again later. And, if the medication is spilled or spat out, only redose if advised by your vet - call or message us if you're unsure.