Some animals take medications every day to help with their heart, lungs, immune system, or coat. Others may only need medication every once in a while. Crescent Springs Animal Hospital in Crescent Springs, KY, knows it can be difficult to convince your pet to take their doses every day. Below, the veterinarian offers a few tips. 

Veterinarian Guide for Getting Pets to Take Their Meds

1. Mix With Food

One of the easiest ways to get your pet to take their medication is to mix it in with their daily serving of food. If they have small pills, you can easily disguise them in a bowl of kibble or a few tablespoons of wet food. This will allow your dog or cat to treat their condition without disrupting their daily routine.

2. Try a Gel Cap

For many animals, the trouble with taking a pill is that it tastes unpleasant. If your pet has caught on to you placing a pill along with their food and has learned to avoid it, put the medication in an empty gel capsule. You can purchase these from a veterinarian or animal hospital to hide the taste of the pill. They are also an excellent option for older animals as they are easier to swallow and won’t upset their stomach. 

3. Reward Them

After you’ve administered your pet’s medication, praise them for their cooperation and offer them a tasty treat. Animals respond well to encouragement and praise, so make this a habit every time they manage to get their pills down. For most animals, this routine is enough to get them to take their medication without a fight. Replace high-fat or high-calorie treats with low-fat training biscuits or healthy, natural alternatives, like sweet potatoes or salmon. 

Looking for a veterinarian you can trust in Crescent Springs, KY? Crescent Springs Animal Hospital is a family-oriented pet health clinic that provides comprehensive care for animals. Whether you find yourself in need of emergency medical care or have a pet with an ongoing ailment, they’ll go the extra mile to provide gentle, effective solutions. For more information on their services, contact them online or call at (859) 331-6608.