Considerate Nursing

The typical cat does not want to be excessively fussed over. Provide it with a warm bed and follow your vet's instructions for feeding and medication.

If your cat has had surgery, check the wound carefully, looking for unexpected swelling, redness, or discharge. Bandage changes can be very difficult and are best left to the veterinary staff.

A sensible cat hates being given medicine, which almost always tastes unpleasant, so you may need someone to help you. Unlike dogs, cats are unlikely to eat pills buried in food.

Wrap your cat in a bath towel if necessary and tuck its body under your free arm as you give the pill. A sick cat may also need hand-feeding in the same manner.

Warm up food to body temperature; and feed small amounts as frequently as possible. Fluids are absolutely essential and should be given by syringe if your cat is not drinking sufficient quantities by itself.

Even moderate dehydration is a serious complication in any illness. A sick cat may appear to be completely better before it really is. Always finish any course of medication.

Treatments will sometimes involve altering your cat's feeding routines to prevent a recurrence of the problem. This aftercare is just as important as the initial treatment.