Herbs are widely used as a part of holistic medicine practices. There are a great number of medicinal cat herbs that can be used with no risks. Cats instinctively eat herbs when they feel ill; the best example is when cats need to vomit, they ingest grass to induce vomiting. Herbs can be used in a wide range of feline medical conditions. If you are interested in alternative medicine make sure you talk to a holistic veterinarian.
Medicinal Herbs Uses
Medicinal herbs are employed to treat or manage numerous conditions in felines including allergies or respiratory infections and cancers or autoimmune diseases. Herbal remedies may be used along other traditional treatments or may be used as a single treatment.
Herbal medicine can be used in chronic diseases or incurable diseases.
Some cat owners opt exclusively to use herbs in managing the health of their pet, as herbs don’t have side effects.
The herbal treatment doesn’t focus on the symptoms alone, but also considers the general health and stamina of the cat.
Commonly Used Herbs in Feline Diseases
You are probably aware that catnip is highly effective in treating stress and anxiety in felines. However, in addition to catnip, there are several other herbs that can be used in cats. Herbs will reduce the symptoms, boost the immune system and also cleanse the blood, improving the overall health of the cat.
Nettle and couchgrass are effective in restoring the cat’s appetite, giving him energy. Nettle is a natural antihistamine and can also be used in treating allergies.
Echinacea can be used to stimulate the immune system of the cat; goldenseal may also be used as an immunity booster.
If the cat suffers from urinary tract infections, a holistic treatment will contain cranberry and elderberry fruits and plants. These may also be used to treat viral infections.
The white willow bark can be used to reduce swellings and in arthritis; however, this plant is a blood thinner, so the cat must be closely monitored.
The red clover may be used as an alternative treatment for cancer; this may slow down the tumor from extending.
Medicinal Herbs Risks
Even if the medicinal cat herbs don’t have side effects, there are certain risks you need to be aware of.
Herbs will act slowly and you are less likely to see any improvement in the cat’s state during the first 2 to 3 months. If the cat’s state is severe and the prognosis is poor, you should not opt for medicinal herbs as the only treatment.
Some herbs can be toxic if used in cats: sage herbs are toxic even if administered in low amounts.
Cats with diabetes, liver or kidney disease should use the medicinal herbs with caution.
Herbal remedies can be used safely in felines, provided the herbs are prescribed by a holistic doctor that is familiar with the use of herbs in cats. Always get your herbs from a trustworthy supplier.
Don’t use herbal remedies prescribed for humans; some herbs may be used safely in humans but may be highly toxic in cats.