Tips to Administer Medication for Your Pets Successfully

Every pet owner has been through the battle that is giving medication to their pets. And we agree, it's an impossible task, especially when your pet seems determined to avoid it at all costs. 

However, with the right techniques and approach, you can make medication time smoother and less stressful for everyone involved. Here are practical tips to help you administer pet medication for dogs and cats successfully, every time.

Start with the Right Mindset

Your pet can sense your emotions, so approaching medication time with anxiety or frustration will only make things harder. Before you begin, take a deep breath and adopt a calm, confident attitude. Pets pick up on nervousness, which can make them suspicious or resistant. Act as though giving medication is no big deal, just another normal part of the daily routine. This calm energy helps your pet stay relaxed and more cooperative.

Timing is Everything

Choose the right moment to administer medication. Avoid times when your pet is overly excited, anxious, or in the middle of playing. Instead, wait for a calm moment when they're relaxed but not sleeping. For many pets, medication time works best before meals when they're hungry and more motivated by food rewards. However, check with your veterinarian first, as some medications must be given with food while others work best on an empty stomach. Establishing a consistent time each day also helps create a routine that your pet will come to expect and accept.

Choose the Best Method Based on the Medication Type

Different medications require different approaches.

Tablets and Capsules

For pets who refuse pills, disguise them inside soft food, pill pockets or treats. Offer one or two “empty” treats first, then the medicated one after to reduce suspicion. A great option for this is the Pillmate Medication Aid for Dogs and Cats, which helps to mask medication with a treat.

Liquid Medications

Liquid medications are ideal for conditions such as deworming or digestive support. Use an oral syringe placed gently between the cheek and teeth. Dispense slowly to avoid choking.

Topical Treatments

Products like neoderm cream for dogs or medicated shampoos such as Hypoallergenic dog shampoo for itchy skin need careful application. Apply a thin layer of cream or bathe your dog with dog shampoo for sensitive skin based on the vet’s instructions. Distract your pet afterward to prevent licking.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Never punish your pet for resisting medication, as this creates negative associations that make future attempts even harder. Instead, reward cooperation generously. Immediately after successful medication administration, offer praise, affection, and a special treat or playtime. This creates positive associations with medication time. Some pets respond well to a specific high-value reward they only receive after taking medication, making it something to look forward to rather than dread

Know Your Pet's Tricks

Pets are clever and will develop strategies to avoid medication. Cats are famous for hiding pills in their cheeks and spitting them out later, so always check their mouth after administration and observe them for a few minutes afterwards. Some dogs will eat around a pill no matter how well it's hidden, so be prepared to try different foods or methods. If your pet consistently outsmarts one technique, switch to another before they become completely resistant.

Communicate with Your Veterinarian

If you're struggling despite your best efforts, talk to your veterinarian. They can demonstrate proper techniques, suggest alternative formulations like flavoured liquids or transdermal gels, or adjust dosing schedules to make administration easier. Some medications can be compounded into more palatable forms specifically for your pet. Never skip doses or give up without exploring all options, as incomplete treatment can compromise your pet's health.