Pets sometimes need medication to help them live long and healthy lives. Appropriate medicine is especially critical for pets diagnosed with chronic ailments like diabetes, kidney disease, or asthma. As a pet owner, it's important to educate yourself about chronic disease management. If a veterinarian prescribes your cat or dog with ongoing treatment, ask the below questions to support your four-legged friend's wellbeing.

What to Ask About Medication for Your Pets

Should the medication be given with food?

Some medication works better with food because it helps the active ingredient in the medication get absorbed by the intestines and stomach. Consuming food alongside medication can also help prevent digestive problems. 

However, other types of medication are less effective when taken with food and they require the patient to eat afterward. Before administering medication, make sure to read the label and call the veterinarian if there is confusion about the instructions.

How can I get my pet to take their medication?

Different animals react differently to medication administration. Finicky felines and canines may need some encouragement taking orally administered meds. For example, you may have to sneakily get them to take a pill by placing it in a treat. 

In some cases, a veterinarian can prescribe a liquid formulation of a pill, which is generally easier to administer. Additionally, there are pill-hiding treats that accommodate the medication inside the treat. These hide the pill and trick the pet into consuming it entirely.

Are there side effects to beware of?

Medications may cause side effects such as lack of appetite, fatigue, and drowsiness. Know what to look out for so you can minimize negative repercussions. Also, beware of signs of a potentially negative medication reaction, such as labored breathing, diarrhea, seizures, or refusal of food or water for more than 24 hours. When this happens, immediately contact the veterinarian for assessment or head to the animal hospital. 

What happens if I forget a dose?

Medications often have "safety windows" within which you can safely administer them without negative consequences, while others have set timelines. For example, insulin prescribed for diabetic pets needs to be given consistently, while a flea or tick cream can be applied more liberally.

To help you stay on top of your pet's medication, set an alarm on your phone. Make sure the volume is high enough for you to hear it. This way, you'll ensure your furry family member is taken care of.

If your pet is living with a chronic illness, regular veterinary checkups are essential. Mililani Town Center Pet Clinic can help support your pet's long-term care, providing cutting-edge diagnostics and treatment options. They have been in business for over 29 years and are dedicated to their furry patients, treating each one as if they were family. Visit their website to review their services. Residents in Miliani, HI, can call (808) 625-6744 to book a convenient and reliable veterinarian appointment.