Pill time with a cat: it’s nobody’s favorite task. For many cat owners, it’s a daunting challenge because felines are experts at avoiding things they don’t want to do. However, as we’ve shared before, administering medicine to your cat can become manageable with the right approach. Here’s a heartwarming story of a cat named Digit who has not only learned to tolerate but actually enjoy his daily pills!
Digit’s Journey with Lifelong Medication
When Digit was just nine months old, he suddenly became very ill, losing all his energy. A vet discovered his red blood cell count was alarmingly low—only 4% compared to the normal 25-45%.
“He was not only anemic, he was minutes from no longer being here,” explained Kait Lewis, Digit’s mom.
Tests revealed that Digit has a rare condition known as “pure red cell aplasia,” meaning his body can’t produce red blood cells quickly enough. Although he initially recovered, he relapsed a year later, nearly dying three times. With the help of multiple blood transfusions and his strong will to live, Digit pulled through. Now, he requires daily medications and frequent checkups for the rest of his life.
A Year of Learning to Love Pill Time
The journey to making pill time manageable, or “pilling,” was a challenging one. However, with perseverance and expert advice, Kait and Digit have come a long way.
“A year difference. Digit and I have come a VERY long way. I’ve learned a lot through my incredible community, through vet techs who have seen my videos, and through amazing behavioralists,” Kait shared.
At first, Digit resisted taking his pills like most cats, making it a struggle for both him and Kait.
“I don’t want you to think Digit and I naturally knew what to do right off the bat, and I don’t want you to feel discouraged. It was a rough start a year ago, and it was a long journey to get Digit not just cooperative for pill time, but excited for it,” Kait wrote.
Despite the tough moments, Kait never gave up, and neither did Digit.
“With time and patience, and allowing yourself and your pet to sometimes fail (don’t put so much pressure on yourself!), you can make pill time a positive experience, too.”
Pill Time Becomes Enjoyable and Exciting!
Fast forward to today, and pill time with Digit has become relatively easy and even enjoyable! Kait found that giving Digit a choice between his smaller and larger pills made the process more positive for him. Remarkably, Digit raises his paw to choose the smaller pill first, giving him a sense of control over the experience.
“Just casually giving my cat the option to pick which pill to start with so he feels more in control of pill time. Just normal cat lady things,” Kait joked.
When he’s done, Digit knows he’ll get attention and a Churu treat—what’s not to love? Although her followers have dubbed her a “cat whisperer,” Kait humbly credits her success to education.
“I appreciate you all calling me a cat whisperer, but honestly, I took the time to learn cat body language and positive reinforcement with cooperative care techniques through Chirrups and Chatter,” Kait explained.
Helping Others Learn from Digit’s Experience
Kait and Digit’s journey has inspired many, and they continue to share their story on Instagram and Facebook. Kait, a graphic designer, even created a beautiful coloring book to help cover Digit’s ongoing medical expenses. A GoFundMe campaign has raised $5,853 toward their $9,500 goal.
