Herbal remedies...do they work for cats?

glencatman

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Ever since I was a kid, I was familiar with a book called 'Back To Eden' by Jethro Kloss. In the 1930's Dr. Kloss specialized in natural and herbal medicine. In his book he mentions cures for cancer and other ailments with herbs and plants. Does anyone here know if those things work on animals? 
 

farleyv

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There probably are cases where these things have helped.

However, when it comes to my animals, I rely on modern veterinary medicine.  My animals cannot tell me if they are feeling better, so I take the tried and true route.
 

ritz

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First, I try the conventional way: I take Ritz to her regular vet for medical issues. Ritz hasn't had any long term illnesses, except a pre-disposition to stress-induced UTIs and FHS.
But I've also considered non-traditional remedies, which, depending on your definition of "non-traditional" (and comfort level) include: accupunture (calmed Ritz down considerably but no lasting effect), chiropractor, animal behaviorist (wonderful experience), holistic vet, (I keep promising myself I will take her to one), homeopathic vet (results somewhat disappointing for Ritz--has worked for other posters), slippery elm bark, egg yolk lechithin, l-theanine supplement, cranberry extract, apple cider vinegar, etc.
I would do extensive research before self-medicating my cat with herbs, and probably only under the supervision of a qualified professional. Some herbs can be toxic and I suspect cause other problems in addition to the one you're trying to treat.
Here is a link to holistic vets--these are vets who have specialized in holistic remedies, healings, and so forth. They have a medical background.
 

ldg

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There are many "non-traditional" things that can help with a cat's health. But it's best to be very mindful of what is and isn't toxic to a cat; dosing isn't easy, some are appropriate only for short-term use, and it's best to work with a vet also trained in alternative treatments.

There are many books written on the subject of pets and natural treatments. I would personally pay attention to the author's qualifications.

One thing is for sure - I would not use information based in humans and apply it to pets.
 

goholistic

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My cat with chronic pancreatitis is on an integrative treatment plan combining traditional (Western) medicine, holistic remedies, and Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM). While he was doing "okay" on the traditional regime with our regular vet (whom we really like), he really seemed to thrive after we consulted with a vet who specializes in TCVM. She helped me stabilize Sebastian during a mild flare using non-traditional treatments (supplements and Chinese herbs) and a diet recommendation (using Chinese theory) and he has been doing pretty well ever since. Both vets know what the other is doing and I think the combined approached of everything working together was really what he needed.
 
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