Antibiotics for cats are drugs that are generally prescribed as a course, for a specific duration of time. Antibiotics treat conditions such as ear infections, urinary tract infections, respiratory disease and stomach disorders. Common medications prescribed for use in pets include gentamicin, amoxicillin and tetracycline. Although antibiotics work effectively to reduce symptoms of disease and prevent secondary bacterial infections, cats experience various side-effects that are harmful if the medication is administered in inappropriate amounts.
Side-Effects of Commercial Antibiotics:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Allergic sensitivity
- Abdominal pain
- Seizures
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
Natural Medication
In order to prevent the harsh side-effects of allopathic medication, many cat owners prefer to use natural therapies. Cats in particular are very sensitive to many drugs, and suffer from allergic reactions to active ingredients present in commercial formulas. Homoeopathic medication and herbal therapies use ingredients or herbs obtained from plant sources to work as healing agents for various cat conditions. Before using any natural medication, it’s necessary to understand the cat’s ailment and obtain prior vet approval to discontinue any medication.
Natural Antibiotics for Cats
Natural antibiotics should be administered in the appropriate dosage, because cats don’t have a long digestive tract. Natural antibiotics are best if given daily for a period of 15 days. Commercially available natural antibiotics are safer for use, and can treat several conditions such as feline ear infections, lesions and bacterial infections. Although natural and herbal remedies are effective to treat minor ailments, they aren’t as effective as antibiotic medications used to treat life-threatening diseases or severe pet illness.
Herbs Used in Natural Antibiotics:
- Dandelion
- Aloe Vera
- Chamomile
- Ginger
- Turmeric
- Olive leaf
- White vinegar
Uses of Natural Antibiotics in Cats:
- Pets infected with ear mites should be treated with almond oil to soften the ear and soothe irritation and inflammation caused by parasites.
- Pau d’archo tincture used in combination with mineral oil is also effective to treat feline ear infections.
- Aloe Vera products are used to treat dry skin and minor bruises or cuts. It also functions as a disinfectant.
- Echinacea and goldenseal tincture can work to reduce symptoms of infection.
- Gastrointestinal tract disorders can be treated with slippery elm bark formulas.
Holistic Cat Care
In addition to natural antibiotics for cats, pet owners may prefer to use holistic therapies to maintain optimal cat heath. This involves the use of less invasive curative techniques, along with diet plans such as raw food diets, and focus on maintaining pets in a stress free environment. Another emerging technique that’s sometimes used in combination with prescribed medication is acupuncture. Although acupuncture works effectively in certain pets, it may not be useful to treat all cats, since each responds differently to treatment options.
Cats that don’t respond positively to natural medication should be taken to the vet promptly. Since herbs react with drugs, it’s also best to discuss the use of natural antibiotics with the vet, before administering any dosage to cats.