How Do I Provide Assisted Feeding to My Cat?

When providing assisted feeding (also referred to as syringe feeding or forced feeding) to a cat with CKD to ensure they get the nutrients they need, the cat’s safety and comfort should come before all else.

The recommended food for assisted feeding is a loaf of Royal Canin Renal Support for cats. This is because it can easily be fed using a syringe, unlike other wet renal foods, which tend to contain chunks or lumps that may not fit into a syringe. Owners wishing to use such cat foods should process them through a blender first to make them easier to administer. If the food is too dry, owners should mix in 2 ml of water per 20 ml of food to liquify it.

1. Remove the end of the syringe.
2. Use a small spoon to fill the syringe with cat food.
3. Reattach the end of the syringe.
4. Tilt the cat’s head back slightly, so that they are facing 70 to 80 degrees above, as this will allow the food to travel down their esophagus. Refrain, however, from pulling the cat’s head back too strongly.
5. Gently press the syringe against the side of the cat’s mouth, near its fangs, and aim the end of the syringe at the halfway point of the cat’s tongue.
6. Slowly administer slight amounts of food down the cat’s throat, giving them enough time to swallow in between. Make sure the food does not end up in the cat’s lungs, and immediately stop feeding the cat if they cough or show any signs of pain. If coughing continues for over 1 minute, consult an experienced veterinarian immediately. Resume feeding once the cat’s condition has stabilized properly.

When providing assisted feeding to cats, owners should refrain from feeding more than 20 ml per session, and leave 30 minutes to 1 hour between sessions. Separating sessions between breakfast and dinner is less stressful for the cat. The food itself should not be too warm or not too cold, and owners should always monitor their cats and suspend feeding if they notice anything wrong.

Assisted feeding can be necessary for cats who have issues eating, but can be stressful. As such, steps to minimize stress, such as calm and comfortable environments, can help immensely.