Gave my cat medicine, now she hates me.

I could really use some advice or support. Last night, I had to give my 8-year-old tabby, Luna, some medicine for a skin infection. She’s always been a bit skittish and has never been a fan of taking meds, but I didn’t expect this reaction. I wrapped her in a blanket burrito to make things a bit easier, but she was not having it. She hissed, scratched me up pretty good, and now she won't come near me. My heart's breaking because she used to curl up on my lap every night, and now she just glares at me from afar. I feel like the worst cat mom ever. I’ve tried offering her favorite treats, but she's just not interested. I miss my cuddle buddy and I’m worried our bond is damaged forever. Has anyone else been through this? How can I make it up to her and show her she can trust me again?

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Answer

Oh, I'm sorry to hear that your cat seems upset with you after giving her medicine. Cats can be sensitive, and it's not uncommon for them to react this way after an unpleasant experience. There are a few reasons why she might be behaving differently.



Firstly, the taste or smell of the medicine can be off-putting to cats, and the process of administering it might have been stressful. It's also possible that she associates the whole experience with discomfort.



To help mend things, try offering extra affection and playtime, allowing her to come to you on her terms. Giving treats or her favorite snack after administering medicine next time might help create a positive association.



Watch for signs of distress in her body language, such as hiding, changes in eating or grooming habits, or aggressive behavior. These could indicate that she's not feeling well due to the medication or that there's another underlying issue.



If her behavior doesn't improve or if you notice any concerning symptoms, a video consultation can be very helpful. A vet can assess her behavior and health more closely to ensure she's not experiencing any adverse effects from the medication. Feel free to book a video call with one of our Dial A Vet professionals if you have any more concerns.

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Disclaimer: The customer and expert messages presented herein may have been altered with artificial intelligence or modified to enhance readability and safeguard the privacy of individuals. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local veterinarian or emergency animal hospital immediately. Talk to a vet now.

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