I don't have a second pair of hands available and had to develop methods for one person.

1. Sit in the recliner. Wedge the cat in between me and the arm of the chair. I wedge in on MY left, as I am right handed. then I struggle to open the jaw - it is easiest if you apply pressure at the joint on either side, that is the weakest point. Then just get the pill down.

Doesn't matter how often you have to do the pilling, get the cat in this position in the recliner with you a few times a day, and have nice treat on hand. Some tuna fresh from the can works, she can smell it. That way, she never knows when it is pill time.

2. If you have a section of kitchen counter which is in an "ell" shape, that will also provide a place where the cat can't back out. Worked well in my apartment; not so good here as I would have to hold the cat with my right and use my left to get the pill in the mouth. I am right handed so it is all wrong for me. *shrugs*

I never had success with wrapping in a towel, yet I know others on here find that a good method.

Each person -- and each cat -- is different.

Cutting nails: if she lets you do a few at a time, be happy with that! Keep a trat handy, reward for what she allows you to do. If she will tolerate 4, try doing 3 and giving a treat and stop! It won't be a struggle for her and she won't fear it as much next go around. After a time you can work this through, as long as you don't really frighten her by insisting you are doing ALL of them NOW, whether she wants you to or not! It is hard to remember that they are not on our time schedule.

Even a cat who normally allows me to do all right through will once in a while show signs that "that is enough!" and I will stop, pick up where I left off another day.