My cat broke his jaw. How do I feed him and give meds after surgery?

Question

my cat has broken his jaw in half and split his tongue in two. He had an operation yesterday that fitted a wire around his mouth and stitches for tongue, he also has been given antibiotics and painkillers but we are struggling to give them to him as he can not close his mouth or lap up any liquids. He seems very distressed and is constantly passing and crying until he feels drowsy from the medication. Please could I have some advice on how to care for my cat over the next few months. Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 14 years and 2 months old | 10 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

Poor Tigger! You may have to syringe the medication into his mouth. I imagine that the vet has given you liquid forms of the antibiotics and painkillers, so use a syringe to measure out the amount he needs, and then put the syringe in his mouth. Put it as far back as possible but don't cause him to gag. Then squirt it into his mouth. That will cause him to swallow it. Because Tigger can't close his mouth, I would feed him a wet food diet. You may have to mix it in water and syringe it into his mother to help him eat. You may also have to do the same with water to make sure he stays hydrated. As his tongue starts to heal, he will be able to start lapping up liquids.

My cat broke his jaw. How do I feed him and give meds after surgery?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What to do if my cat has a small hole with pus coming from its ear?

My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?

My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?

My degu has trouble breathing, coughing, and nose discharge. Help?

Why is my pet's swollen lump with green patches not getting better?

My sick small pet is breathing mouth open. Did I drown her feeding?

Share