Before we get into how to give your pet a pill, it is important to note that you should consult your veterinarian before giving your pet any medications. Many over-the-counter medications such as Advil or Tylenol are highly toxic to cats and dogs.
Pilling your Dog:
- Coat the pill with something your dog likes. Commonly used foods include wet dog food, peanut butter, cheese slices, pill pockets, or other soft dog treats.
- Offer your dog a few treats. Offer treats that are highly valued by your dog, that they do not get often.
- Offer your dog the treat with the pill. Ensure to give more treats quickly before your dog has the opportunity to spit the pill out.
- Quickly offer more treats. Praise the dog for being a great patient and taking their medication!
Pilling your Cat:
- Coat the pill with something your cat likes. Commonly used treats include wet cat food gravy or a small soft cat treat. You do not want the pill to get too large and difficult to swallow.
- Open your cat’s mouth. Use your non-dominant hand to reach over their head and grab near their upper canine teeth. Tilt their head back so they are looking at the ceiling. Use your dominant hand ring and pinky fingers to open their mouth the rest of the way on their lower jaw.
- Place pill as far into their mouth as possible. Holding the pill in your thumb and index finger of your dominant hand place the pill as far back in their mouth as possible. After their mouth is closed, massage their throat or gently blow on their face in order to encourage swallowing.
- Reward your cat. Offer your cat a treat for being a great patient and taking their medication.
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