Sometimes, it is best to go to the vet and get an antibiotic for your pet. Yet there are other times when a herb may be able to cure your cat's slight ailment. According to Pets MD, you can grow your own herbs to improve your pet's overall health. Cats also enjoy herbs, so you will be both giving your feline a treat and improving his or her well-being all at the same time.
The most common herb to give to a cat is catnip. This is an herb that is beloved by cats all over the world, which is why it is often put in toys and treats. Catnip helps to relieve cats of stress and nervousness. If your cat has dry and itchy skin, a catnip tea bath can help to relieve your animal.
There is also another herb called cat thyme, which many felines are drawn to. It is possible that your cat won't be as attracted to catnip as most, which is why cat thyme can often be a beneficial treat. Unfortunately, this herb has a very strong and relatively unpleasant odor. Still, the herb has the same soothing effect on cats as catnip does,, and can help your pet to feel content.
If you choose to grow cat thyme you will want to pot a few plants as they often take a long time to grow. Valerian is another herb that is best known for its ability to help people relax and get a good night's sleep. Yet for cats, Valerian actually has the opposite effect. It acts as a stimulant, helping lazier cats to get out and exercise. The cats enjoy eating this plant, so you can grow it an herb garden and watch your pet reap the results.
Peppermint, Pennyroyal, and Rosemary are three herbs that produce oils with soothing properties. At the same time, the oils can work as an insect repellant. If your cat has fleas, these herbs in combination or singularly can enhance a flea treatment while simultaneously soothing your cat's itching skin. The most common application of these herbs is in the form of a bath. Pennyroyal is safe as a topical medication, but can be harmful to a cat if it is swallowed, so you should not let this herb remain in a place where the cat could potentially get into it.
Another healthy cat herb is known as Goldenseal. This is a plant which can be used as a natural disinfectant for wounds and can shrink swollen eyes that are due to infections and allergies if the herb is used in connection with saline. Licorice root is another herb that your cat will enjoy eating. It helps to reduce the effects of allergies and will help your cat to produce endocrine.
The licorice also helps with digestive issues and respiratory problems. If your cat gets a cold, the licorice is a natural way to soothe the mucous membranes. Licorice is also a natural blood cleanser and has anti-inflammatory properties so it can be useful for cats with arthritis.
Whenever you choose to use an herb to improve your cat's health, make sure to check with a veterinarian first. In some situations, a holistic medication will not be able to replace an antibiotic, especially for very specific illnesses. You should never ignore the need to take your pet in for regular checkups, and should monitor your pet's consumption of herbs. If you need to locate a local vet, use this directory. You may be able to find a friendly, compassionate animal physician in your neighborhood who can care for your beloved animal.