Before giving your cat medication, you want to build a positive association with the process of bringing medication to your cat’s mouth. Begin by choosing a work area where your cat already has a positive association. Tabitha chose her counter, where she and Bean often train together. You also want to choose a reinforcer that your cat enjoys and can consume easily. Bean enjoys tofurkey and dry kibble, so that is what Tabitha uses.

Acclimate your cat to the syringe. Tabitha practices by bringing the syringe near Bean’s mouth and following with a treat. Once Bean is comfortable with the approach of the syringe, Tabitha progresses to putting the empty syringe in Bean’s mouth and then delivering a treat. As Bean accepts the syringe in her mouth, Tabitha adds a little water to the syringe so that Bean gets used to the liquid. Once Bean is comfortable with Tabitha dispensing liquid, Tabitha and Bean are ready for medication!

Each step of this process should be fun and positive for your cat. Be sure to progress slowly and at a pace where your cat is comfortable. Tabitha reports, “Within just a few days, Bean would come to the counter and my husband could medicate her with no issues. Medicating does not need to be stressful for you or your animals!” As Bean demonstrates through her purrs and happy meows, it can even be fun! As always, please speak with your veterinary professional before trying any medical behaviors with your animal.

For more inspiration and tips on training your cat, check out Karen Pryor Academy’s Train Your Cat course!