How to Treat Cat Behavior Problems with Medication
Sometimes behavior training just isn't enough for your furry feline. If your training hasn't worked, medication might be the next step.
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You Will Need
- Veterinarian
- Medication
- Treats
- Training
Steps
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Step 1
Determine the problem
Determine your cat's problem and decide if you should see your veterinarian. If you decide to see them, be sure to explain all of the behaviors in detail.
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Talking to your vet about options can help you decide the best treatment plan.
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Step 2
Decide on medication
Decide on the proper medication with the help of your veterinarian. There are generally four types of medicine for cat behavior: benzodiazepines, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
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Step 3
Understand the results
Understand how the medication and its dose will affect the behavior so you can recognize changes. The veterinarian prescribing the medication can give you this information.
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It is important to understand the side effects of any medication you give your cat in order to properly monitor their health.
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Step 4
Give the medication
Give the medication to the cat at a regularly scheduled time. It may not be easy to give a cat medication, but try gently holding your cat's jaw open and rewarding them with a treat before starting the medicine regimen.
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Step 5
Modify the behavior
Modify the behavior with additional behavior training to complement the medication. Once you've modified behavior be sure to always pay close attention to any signs of the behavior returning. If it doesn't, you've got your best pal back in shape.
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The average cat sleeps about 16 hours per day.
