What is the best approach for administering medication to an uncooperative cat?

Using a technique known as "pilling" is often the most effective and direct method for administering medication to an uncooperative cat. This method involves using the fingers to place the tablet or capsule into the back of the cat's throat, allowing the animal to swallow the medication with a gentle tilt of the head. It can be particularly useful because it minimizes the risk of the cat spitting the medication out, which can happen if the oral administration is attempted without proper technique. Additionally, using pilling can be accomplished in a safe way that ensures the medication reaches the cat's system as intended.

Other options may not prove as effective. Administering medication directly into the mouth requires a level of cooperation from the cat that may not be present, leading to stress for both the animal and the caregiver. Offering medication in food without the cat noticing could result in the cat refusing to eat the food altogether if it detects the medication, or it might spit out the medication if it's not fully concealed. Consulting with the veterinarian for alternatives is always a wise course of action if typical methods fail, but this is not the immediate solution when trying to administer medication. Therefore, pilling is regarded as a proactive and practical approach in this scenario.