Dogs and cats are a lot like us, at least when it comes getting sick. They get tummy aches and diarrhea, itchy skin and minor infections and are affected by the health hazards of modern living. Pollution, poor nutrition, stress and unhealthy lifestyles can lead to a variety of illnesses and conditions that are very similar to those experienced by humans. All pets from the daintiest poodle to the toughest ally cat have one thing in common. The unconditional love and support they give us. They are intelligent, curious creatures, who suffer emotional and psychological problems like depression, anxiety, ADHD and behavioral problems. Similarly, physical ailments such as diabetes, arthritis, chronic fatigue, digestive disorders, cystitis, kidney and liver disease, skin disorders, obesity, thyroid dysfunction and other problems are becoming more and more common in domesticated animals.

How to use Herbs for Animals

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Fresh and dried herbs: Fresh herbs from the garden, or from a local organic grower, whenever possible, should be the first choice. They are rich in nutrients and medicinal value. Not only are they better for you and your animal, but they are better for the planet as little to no fossil fuels are expended to get them to the table. Dried bulk herbs, or fresh herbs can be sprinkled on your pets food, or infused as and added to the water bowl. Herbal teas also may great skin washes for pets. Herbal capsules can be less effective, due to the short digestive tracts of dogs and cats capsules may pass through them undigested. You may want to break herbal capsules open and sprinkle on food. Extracts and vegetable glycerine tinctures are usually the first choice for animals because the sweet taste makes them easier to take than alcohol tinctures. I personally have used the Animal's Apawthecary line of glycerine liquid extracts for my cats and found them effective

Some General Guidelines In general cats are more sensitive than dogs to herbs, and need much less to produce a therapeutic response. Start with a very minimal dose, observe your pet's reactions carefully, before giving the full recommended dosage. Nature's bounty gives us a wide array of choices - many different herbs that will serve the purposes. Herbs that work gently, and are safe to give over an extended time should be your first choices.

Using Aromatherapy

Cats and aromatherapy often do not mix well. While researching the material for this website I found many sources that recommend using essential oils for treating cats - and others that gave dire warnings against it. While I love using essential oils for myself, my own feline friend (an elderly cat), does not react well to oils. I prefer to use diluted whole herb teas and herb infused oils with her.