Holistic Treatments for Cat Breathing Problems

If your feline has asthma, or other cat breathing problems and you'd like to know more about alternative treatment options, here is some information about holistic approaches.

Conventional treatment methods are effective in preventing asthma attacks, treating kennel cough, reducing the effects of feline bronchitis and generally providing relief from the symptoms of asthma. However, many believe the long-term use of steroid antihistamine and bronchodilator drugs play a major role in compromising the immune system, so you may want add some Holistic therapies. Eliminate sources of mold.

Herbal Supplements

Next, you will want to choose natural diet supplements, holistic remedies, and perhaps herbal or homeopathic treatments as part of your holistic program. Here are some popular choices in herbs and nutrient remedies receiving praise from holistic veterinarians and herbalists.

Scullcap (Inula helenium) has been used by herbalists very effectively in treating coughs, bronchitis and asthma for centuries.

Marshmallow is effective for irritating coughs and other respiratory infections. Marshmallow helps to relieve the dry cough that causes sore throats.

Some Herbalists recommend Hawthorne Berry to increase circulation which in turn can have a good effect on breathing problems.

Vitamin Supplements

Vitamin supplements can be especially helpful for older pets. The most recommended are:

  • Vitamin C - Ester C is best as it is gentler on the stomach
  • Vitamin E - this should be natural vitamin E, (d-alpha tocopherol)
  • Vitamin B Complex is very important for your cat's general well-being, bolstering the feline immune system

You should consider antioxidants and other good immunity enhancers such as Co Enzyme Q 10, a vitamin-like substance which the body can make from food, but as the ability to do this declines with age in cats you can supplement with as dose of 10mg-30mg daily. There are Co Enzyme Q 10 products on the market, which your vet can provide if appropriate. L Lysine, an amino acid, is worth looking into, along with common remedies such as cranberry.

Remember that while many pet owners report good results from combining Holistic remedies and treatment with conventional treatments, you must be alert to the danger of unexpected events or side effects associated with these combinations. For example; herbal remedies can sometimes interfere with conventional medicines so these treatments are best left to the professionals. It is recommended that you engage a consult homeopathic or alternative medicine vet, through referral from your vet, or another person who has used their services.

 

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