Abigails Herbs

After I asked her why her sweet oci-cat was sniffling and congested, my good cat-loving friend disclosed to me that her cat of 10 years was suffering from asthma; the same kind that humans get. Not only was the cat diagnosed with asthma, but she also was beset with skin sores, complete with swelling and itchiness. Her veterinarian prescribed predisone, which stopped the symptoms quickly. Long-term use of predisone, however, can result in weakened bones, weight gain, diabetic conditions and increased risk of infections.

I would recommend the use of predisone only to stop severe pain and inflammation, but not over a long period of time, simply to avoid the negative side effects listed above. For your pet to avoid chronic, long-term pharmaceutical therapy, it is best to treat your pet with a holistic approach. If your pet can tolerate baths, it is good to give him/her an herbal body wash once or twice per week or whenever possible. Omega-3 fatty acids can be beneficial; try starting out with 500 mgs. of DHA or EPA two times per day.

Herbal remedies include inflammation-reducers such as burdock root, dandelion and licorice. Your veterinarian may also suggest the use of milk thistle to keep the liver healthy and the gastrointestinal tract clear. The intestines are the places  in which allergens erupt and the liver acts as a detoxifying organ. Lastly, ask your vet to recommend a diet low in animal by-products and free of chemical preservatives.  A proper diet can prevent skin from flaring up and reduce inflammation from the start. Just like humans, natural, homeopathic diets can prevent illness and maintain  the wellness and health of our animals too. After all, we are both mammals.

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