Milk thistle is an herbal remedy derived from the flowering daisy and has a regenerating effect on the liver. It helps cure liver diseases and fight the toxic effects of different drugs. Milk thistle stimulates the regenerative properties of the liver. Its main active ingredient is an anti-oxidant. Milk thistle comes both in the form of pills and in a liquid form, so it can be easily administered.
Milk Thistle for Cats
Liver diseases in cats are common. These can be primary diseases or they can be secondary diseases which derive from another medical condition.
Drugs and therapies used to cure diseases in cats can be harmful to the liver due to their toxicity. Chemotherapy is known to seriously damage liver cells and so are corticosteroids, antibiotics, diuretics, flea medication or heartworm treatments. Therefore, it is recommended that you administer your cat milk thistle to help his liver cope with the toxic agents.
Milk thistle is also an efficient remedy against poisoning.
Milk thistle contains a strong anti-oxidant ingredient, silymarin, so it also helps cells fight against free radicals.
Milk thistle does not have any side effects and is appropriate for long term use.
Benefits of Milk Thistle for Cats
Milk thistle may help felines with the following conditions:
- Liver damage due to other drug treatments and therapies
- Digestive disorders
- Bile issues
- Prevention of inflammatory bowel disease and gallstones
- Poisoning
The product has detoxifying effects and stimulates the regenerative function of the liver.
Administration of Milk Thistle in Cats
When purchasing milk thistle, make sure the substance is for feline use. Cats have a different assimilation system than humans so it is important that you buy the appropriate remedy.
Milk thistle comes both as pills and a liquid form. If your cat refuses to take pills, the liquid form might be a better option.
Milk thistle should be administered according to the pet’s body weight. In cats, the recommended dose is about 10 mg per pound. Pill supplements usually contain 175 mg, but you can also find pills that contain only 50 mg which would be more appropriate for cats.
If you use the liquid tincture, you can easily dose it using the dropper it comes with. The dropped is usually marked so you know exactly how much of the substance you administer to your cat. The dosage should be calculated according to the body weight: 1 drop per 2 pounds. It is recommended that you divide the dose for 2 or more administrations a day.
If your cat suffers from a serious disease, he might need a higher dose, sometimes 3 times more that the usual amount.
An overdose of milk thistle can upset the stomach, cause diarrhea and gas. Discontinue the treatment if you notice any of these symptoms. These symptoms will subside once the dose is adjusted.
If you want to make sure you know the most appropriate means of administration, you should probably consult an herbalist or a holistic veterinarian before you start the treatment.