Sometimes getting your pet to take a pill is just not possible. Many vets and companies have tried to simplify the pill-giving process by inventing small pockets to put them in or trying to trick your pet that a pill is a treat, but sometimes they just know. Fortunately, pet medications can be compounded into a different form which may be easier to administer. Instead of fighting with your pet multiple times a day to take their medication, you could get a compound that they do not even know they are taking. Here are a few different ways your pet's medication may be compounded.

Suppositories 

One of the most useful compounded methods comes in the form of suppositories. This may sound like it is not the easiest method, but if your pet is extremely constipated, or will not stop vomiting, a suppository may be the only way to get the medication where it needs to go. Nausea is a frequent reason why an animal cannot swallow their pill or keep it down. Fortunately, a suppository with the same medication can be inserted into the rectum where it will then dissolve and be absorbed into the bloodstream. Since the pill will not have to go through the digestive tract, it will be absorbed more quickly, and the effects will be felt usually within a few minutes. 

Oral Suspension

Oral suspensions are another great alternative to pills since they can be flavored. For example, instead of trying to give your cat a pill, you can have it compounded into an oral suspension and mixed with a tuna flavor, making it a great treat instead of some awful medication. Your pet may be much more willing to take it if it tastes good. 

Topical Gel

If your pet is unable to take anything by mouth, you may want to get a compounded topical gel. If your pet has fur, they will need to have some small area shaved down to the skin where the gel will be rubbed on each time they need their medication. It will then be absorbed through the skin, which makes administering their meds as easy as a back rub or scratch. 

Giving your pet medication does not necessarily have to be difficult. If your pet refuses to take a pill or is unable to take medication due to illness, talk to your pharmacist about getting their medication compounded. While it may make giving them their pills much easier, it could actually save their life. Talk to a pet pharmacist for more information about compounded pet medication options.

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