Expert: Tina - 6/3/2007

Question
Could you tell me the spots where a cat cannot lick himself?  I am applying topical medication (Prozac) to my cat and when he licks it, he froths at the mouth and slings saliva because of the bitterness.  I know I can put it on the back of his head, but need to know if there are any other spots.  The medicine will cause sores if it is continually placed in the same place day after day.  Thanks!

Answer
Hi Jo Ann,

Cats are very flexible and can reach any spot on their body except the back of the head easily. Unfortunately it's your only option for applying topical medication. Can you ask your vet for a pill instead, you can give a pill in the treat pill pockets - most cats love them.

I'm not sure what the problem is you are treating with prozac (presumably anxiety or inappropriate urination due to stress) I'd suggest also considering giving him the amino acid L-tryptophan instead - it is a prescursor to serotonin and it's cheaper, safer and easier to give than prozac. You just mix the tasteless powder into his food 100mg/day. You can buy it online at vitaminshoppe.com or some health food stores. It will o the same thing as prozac essentially, but without potential side effects.

Also if urination is a problem please see this article for more suggestions:

http://catnet.stanford.edu/articles/litterbox.html

Good luck!