Syringe Feeding a Cat
Last updated: 9th Dec 20233
Credit: Image by Freepik
Feeding a cat via syringe feeding can help ensure your cat gets proper nutrition, especially if they refuse to eat. This technique may be challenging for pet parents, so understanding when and how to do it is important.
An average indoor cat will need 180 to 250 calories per day. A 1 lb kitten needs 60 calories a day.
This guide explains that using a syringe to feed a kitty is suitable and provides detailed steps for feeding your cat safely.
What Is Syringe Feeding?
Syringe feeding involves gently introducing food into a cat's mouth using a feeding syringe or a regular syringe without a needle.
It might be necessary to assist in feeding a cat for several weeks or even months, especially if the cat has a persistent health issue affecting its appetite. Sometimes, this feeding method stimulates the cat's appetite, encouraging them to eat independently.
When Should You Consider Syringe Feeding a Cat?
Feeding a cat through a syringe becomes essential when a cat faces difficulty eating or drinking independently due to illness or injury. This method also provides medications that a cat cannot take orally.
Before attempting syringe feeding, it's crucial to consult with a veterinarian to confirm that this approach is suitable for the felines condition.
Selecting the Appropriate Syringe and Food
When syringe feeding your cat, it's important to have the right equipment, such as a suitably sized syringe for their weight. A syringe with a blunt tip and a large bore is recommended to ease food administration. You don't need to buy one as some pharmacies provide free oral medicine syringes of all sizes upon request.
Choosing the right food for syringe feeding is also crucial. Using easily digestible, nutritionally balanced food designed specifically for cats is recommended. Alternatively, you can puree their regular food after moistening it. To ensure that your cat consumes the right amount of food, it's helpful to pre-measure the quantity they should eat during the day.
Steps for Syringe-Feeding a Cat
Create a relaxed cat-feeding environment, ensuring a quiet, stress-free atmosphere.
Verify the cleanliness of the syringe and ensure the food or medicine is at room temperature.
Hold the cat securely and insert the syringe tip toward the cat's cheek.
Administer food to the cat with a gentle, slow hand, reducing the risk of choking or inhalation.
Slowly dispense the food while the cat swallows, and withdraw the syringe carefully.
If the cat resists or stops swallowing, pause and wait for them to resume before continuing.
Allow sufficient time between feedings and prevent overfeeding. Clean the syringe thoroughly after each feeding.
Seek a vet if you face difficulty feeding the cat or if there's no improvement in the cat's condition.
Tips and Hints for assist Feeding your Cat
Prepare all necessary items in advance and have plenty of towels.
Using room-temperature food in the syringes is advisable instead of cold, refrigerated food for easier handling.
Never forcefully feed an unconscious or swallowing-challenged cat with food, liquids, or medications.
The food used for syringe feeding may create an aversion in cats. Avoid using it during syringe feeding to prevent their favorite food from becoming unappetizing.
For relaxed cats, consider using a baby bib to maintain cleanliness during syringe feedings.
Cats that struggle to eat might require a full towel wrap for their cleanliness and protection against potential scratches.
FAQs
Is it OK to feed my cat with a syringe?
If your cat has refrained from eating for an entire day or eaten minimally for two days, it's necessary to commence assisted feeding (syringe feeding). This involves gently administering your cat's food through a syringe directly into their mouth.
How much food should you syringe feed a cat?
While at the pharmacy, procure a syringe (without a needle, naturally) of 5, 10, 20, or 40 ml size, appropriate for cats and small dogs. An average cat (weighing about 10 lbs) should consume 120 ml of liquefied food daily, divided into two meals.
How long should I syringe feed my cat?
Typically, a 20-mL syringe will take approximately 3 to 5 minutes to feed a dog, and a 6-mL syringe would take about the same time for a cat. Sometimes, simply presenting a pudding-like food near your pet's mouth can encourage them to eat.
How long can a sick cat go without eating?
Under regular circumstances, a cat could survive one to two weeks without food if they have access to water. However, if they lack protein, they may survive for three to four days, even with access to water. Without either food or water, a cat may survive up to three days.
What equipment is needed for syringe feeding a cat?
For syringe feeding, you'll require an oral syringe or feeding syringe, high-calorie cat food or prescribed diet, and possibly a blender to prepare the food.
How do I syringe feed a cat with a feeding tube?
Place the feeding tube at the back of the mouth and slowly administer the food using the syringe to ensure it reaches the stomach properly.
What are the best foods to use for syringe feeding a cat?
High-calorie cat food or prescription diets recommended by your vet are ideal. Some may use watered-down, smooth baby food or specially formulated liquid diets.
How much to feed and how often should I syringe feed my cat?
The amount and frequency depend on your cat's condition and vet recommendations. Typically, small, frequent feedings are suggested, especially for cats with CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease).
How can I make syringe feeding easier for my cat?
Gently secure your cat and approach syringe feeding calmly. Sometimes wrapping them in a towel "burrito" or feeding while they're distracted can help.
How do I know if my cat is getting enough water while syringe feeding?
If your cat isn't drinking much water, consult your vet about adding water to the food or discussing additional hydration methods.
What if my cat is nauseous or resists syringe feeding?
Cats can be finicky with forced feeding. If your cat resists, consult your vet about other methods or possible anti-nausea medication.
Should I force feed my kitty if it refuses?
Forcing food can stress your cat. If they resist or show signs of distress, it's crucial to consult your vet for alternative feeding methods.
Can I mix water with the food for syringe feeding?
Yes, adding water to the food can help create a more liquid consistency, making it easier to syringe feed, especially for cats with difficulties swallowing.
What if my cat's chin gets messy during syringe feeding?
Keep a damp cloth nearby to clean your cat's chin after feeding. Ensuring cleanliness can prevent skin irritation or discomfort.
