I ususally get them down on the carpet ... so if they claw with their hind legs, it's into the carpeting .. not my body (haha) and I grasp them with my left hand by the nap of the neck, while using my right hand to administer whatever med I need. Sometimes I straddle them with my legs (on bended knees) from behind. I find it is easier to just take charge and get it done rather than to "pussyfoot" around with them!

GOOD LUCK! I'm sure there are many other PTers that have their own sets of advice!!!