Understanding Cat Medications A Guide from Love Animal Hospital & Urgent Care
Behavioral changes in cats should never be ignored. When your typically social cat starts hiding instead of lounging on their favorite windowsill, it’s time to investigate the cause. Cats are masters at concealing pain and illness, which is why even minor alterations in their behavior can signal a potentially serious problem.
If our veterinarians at Love Animal Hospital & Urgent Care, Dr. Ryan Smith or Dr. Ried Forman, discover that your cat has a short-term illness or an ongoing chronic health issue, your furry companion may require prescription medication. As their caregiver, it will be your responsibility to administer these medications. We understand that giving medication to a cat can be challenging, especially when they’re not in a cooperative mood. That’s why we’re here to guide you through the process of successfully administering your cat’s medication without causing undue stress to either of you.
Common Reasons for Cat Medications and Prescriptions
At Love Animal Hospital & Urgent Care, we prescribe medications to cats for various reasons. One of the most frequent conditions we treat is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). This uncomfortable condition often requires daily medications, a special prescription diet, and plenty of tender loving care.
Corticosteroids are commonly used in the treatment of IBD. To make the process easier for both you and your pet, we can often have cat medications compounded into flavored tablets or liquids (salmon flavor is usually a hit!). Our skilled veterinary technicians will train you on proper administration techniques and help you manage your cat’s medication schedule effectively.
Infections are another common reason for cat medications. Whether stemming from a wound or another cause, antibiotics are typically prescribed for a specific duration until the infection clears and your cat returns to their normal, playful self.
In some cases, pain medications may be necessary to keep your cat comfortable and pain-free for a period of time. A little extra care, attention, and gentle petting can help make the medicine administration process smoother.
We also offer long-lasting antibiotic and pain relief injections. Feel free to discuss these options with Dr. Smith or Dr. Forman during your next appointment at Love Animal Hospital & Urgent Care.
For cats with hyperthyroidism, we may prescribe oral medications or transdermal gels. In some cases, these options may be easier for pet owners to apply.
Other common conditions that may require medication include:
- Heart Disease
- Diabetes
- Certain forms of cancer, such as intestinal lymphoma
- Hyperthyroidism
- IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)
Tips for Administering Cat Medications
We know that giving medication to cats can be quite a challenge. Here are some helpful tips from our team at Love Animal Hospital & Urgent Care:
- For pills, try using Pill Pockets – soft, tasty treats that can disguise the medication.
- Pill guns are designed to place the pill at the back of the tongue, where the cat is less likely to reject it.
- Some medications come in liquid form. We’ll provide detailed instructions on dosing and proper administration.
- Transdermal gels are applied topically like a lotion. It’s crucial to understand the absorption rate and pay close attention to dosing.
For visual learners, we recommend watching instructional videos on how to administer cat medications. These can be incredibly helpful in demonstrating proper techniques.
Tips for Administering Cat Medications
We know that giving medication to cats can be quite a challenge. Here are some helpful tips from our team at Love Animal Hospital & Urgent Care:
- For pills, try using Pill Pockets – soft, tasty treats that can disguise the medication.
- Pill guns are designed to place the pill at the back of the tongue, where the cat is less likely to reject it.
- Some medications come in liquid form. We’ll provide detailed instructions on dosing and proper administration.
- Transdermal gels are applied topically like a lotion. It’s crucial to understand the absorption rate and pay close attention to dosing.
For visual learners, we recommend watching instructional videos on how to administer cat medications. These can be incredibly helpful in demonstrating proper techniques.
Long-term Medication Plans
If your cat requires long-term medication, it’s essential to have a solid plan in place. Most cats respond well to positive reinforcement when taking medications. We recommend administering medication on a high table where your cat feels secure, rather than on the ground.
Refilling Your Cat’s Prescription
At Love Animal Hospital & Urgent Care, we maintain a well-stocked pharmacy for our patients. It’s best to get your pet’s prescriptions filled directly through us. For refills, simply give us a call at (657) 756-5683. Keep in mind that your cat may need occasional blood tests to ensure they’re receiving the correct dosage throughout their treatment.
Prescription Cat Food
Prescription cat food is specially formulated to address specific health issues. These diets are created by veterinary nutritionists and can be highly beneficial for certain conditions. While your cat may initially be hesitant about a new food, we can work together to find a prescription diet they enjoy.
Behavior Modification Medications for Cats
If your cat is displaying unwanted behaviors, there are various medication options available. We may recommend a combination of behavioral medicine and modification techniques to help your cat overcome negative behaviors. Remember, it may take time for your cat to respond to medication and learn new positive behaviors.
Consult with Our Veterinarians About Cat Medications
If you notice any changes in your cat’s behavior, no matter how small, please don’t hesitate to call Love Animal Hospital & Urgent Care at (657) 756-5683 to schedule an appointment. Even minor behavioral changes can indicate significant health problems that may require medication.
For cats already on prescription medication, we’re here to help with refills and ongoing care. Dr. Ryan Smith and Dr. Ried Forman are always available to discuss your cat’s medication needs and ensure they receive the best possible care.
At Love Animal Hospital & Urgent Care, located at 16161 Springdale St, Huntington Beach, CA 92649, we’re committed to providing comprehensive care for your feline friends. Visit us at Love.vet to learn more about our services and how we can help keep your cat healthy and happy.
