I'm feeling really worried about my cat, Whiskers, and I'm hoping someone here might be able to offer some advice or reassurance. After I gave Whiskers his prescribed oral medication today, he started licking himself more than usual, especially around his mouth and paws. It's like he's trying to get rid of the taste or something, but he hasn't done this with meds before. He seemed to really hate the taste this time and now I’m second-guessing myself if I administered it right. I feel awful watching him so uncomfortable and he looks at me like I'm the villain here. Has anyone else experienced this? Is there anything I should do or watch out for to help him feel better? Thanks in advance for any tips or words of comfort.
Hello there! I understand your concern about your cat licking excessively after receiving oral medication. It's quite common for cats to exhibit this behavior due to the taste or texture of the medication or as a sign of mild irritation in their mouth or throat. The licking is often a way for them to attempt to soothe the discomfort or remove the taste.
First, ensure you're administering the medication as directed. Using a pill pocket or hiding the medication in a small amount of food might help your cat ingest it more comfortably without experiencing that unpleasant taste directly.
If your cat's licking continues or becomes more frequent, it could indicate a mild allergic reaction or discomfort related to the medication. Watch for signs such as swelling around the mouth, drooling, difficulty swallowing, or any changes in behavior, as these may indicate a more serious reaction requiring immediate veterinary attention.
To ease your cat's current discomfort, gently offer some fresh water or a tasty treat to help clear the taste from their mouth. However, if the excessive licking persists or you're noticing any alarming symptoms, it might be a good idea to chat with a vet for more personalized advice.
Feel free to book a video consultation with our team at Dial A Vet. We're here to help you and your furry friend get back to normal in no time!
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