I’ve been to the vet three times now, and they’ve very patiently shown me exactly what to do. When we’re at the vet’s surgery, he’s as good as gold. But at home, I just can’t manage it; he keeps fighting me no matter where I try to inject him. Even trying to scruff him doesn't work – I can't seem to keep him still. Trying to distract him with his dry food isn't working either.
I feel like I’m attacking him every single time, and half the time I’m not even sure the needle actually went in properly.
I’m at my wits' end!!
Does anyone have any advice?
Thanks in advance
Translated from French
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Hi there.
First off, your vet can show you some restraint techniques, like firmly scruffing him by the neck and lifting him slightly. Some cats go limp while others don’t; it varies. It’s the classic method and the most effective when you’re on your own, as it leaves one hand free for the injection. But let’s be realistic: facing an energetic, stressed cat by yourself is almost impossible. You’ll end up hurting him, he’ll injure you, and even if you manage the jab, it’ll be poorly done and risky for your cat.
Normally, this is a two-person job, and even then, it can be a real struggle. In a clinic, the vet nurses are there for exactly that—it’s part of the job. So, if you can, do it with someone else’s help. A neighbour, a family member, a friend—basically, you need two of you.
If you’ve got no one, or at least not every day, you can try a few tricks. You can wrap him up tightly in a thick duvet, leaving only the area you need to inject accessible. It stops you from getting scratched. If done properly, the cat has almost no room to move. Cats are quick, but they don’t actually have much brute strength. You basically swaddle him into a big ball with the blanket. You can even use your chest to lean on him slightly; the duvet acts as a cushion, so you can apply a bit of weight. Not too much, obviously, but enough to keep him pinned.
Something similar involves using a bag with handles, like a tote or a sturdy shopping bag. You put him inside so that only his head is poking out. Again, this avoids scratches, and if you find a bag that’s the right size and fairly thick, you probably won’t even need much force. Just hold the top of the bag so he doesn't try to jump out.
And the best part is you can combine both techniques: wrap him in a blanket or sheet first, then slide him into the bag with his head sticking out.
That’s what I’d do. Good luck with your furry little terror!
