Why Should You Use Alternative Medicine for Treating Your Cat?
Nowadays, alternative treatments and medicine for cats are more popular than ever. People are more and more aware that, sometimes, these treatments are far better than using conventional medications. However, you should always talk to your vet in order to find the most suitable alternative treatment for your cat. In this article, we will show you why alternative medicine is excellent in cat treatments and also which treatments are the most popular.
What is the right alternative treatment for your cat?
Consulting a qualified veterinarian regarding alternative treatments for your cat should always be your first step. If your cat is in pain for days, bring her to your vet to establish the root of the problem. There are different alternative treatments, and each of them is suitable for a different type of injury or illness. Many vets, and even medical practitioners, offer some of the most popular alternative treatments for cats. Anyways, it is essential to pick the right treatment for your cat (in consultation with your vet), but also to choose the right medicine. Hence, let’s go through some of the most popular types of alternative treatments and medication that might be suitable for your cat.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a method that is used in China for more than 3500 years. It stimulates particular points on the body by putting sterilized steel needles into specific spots. Those spots could be boosted by using electrical impulses, heating, injecting a solution, or by using a laser. The primary target is the central nervous system that affects other parts of the body – cardiovascular, hormonal, and musculoskeletal system. It is useful in treatments of different disorders, such as respiratory problems, allergies, arthritis, skin diseases, and much more. When it comes to acupuncture for cats, you should be very careful, and always talk to your vet first. Cats have different anatomy than humans, and their nerves are located in different places. Feline acupuncture is the most popular method in veterinary medicine.
Chiropractic therapy
Veterinary chiropractic focuses on the movement of joints in order to correct spinal alignment and recover the body to a healthy state. It stimulates receptors in the nervous system, inhibits pain pathways, and restores proper functioning. Chiropractic treatment is short, and a practitioner is usually a person who does it. Conditions that your cat can improve with chiropractic therapy are arthritis, injury pains, painful joints, and other similar issues. Consulting with your veterinarian before opting for this method is mandatory. Furthermore, laws in multiple countries and states are strict when it comes to chiropractic therapy. Usually, they state that non-vets can work only under the supervision of a licensed, professional veterinarian.
Herbal Remedies and CBD
Many herbs nowadays are proven to alleviate symptoms of different diseases. Even though these herbs provide adequate relief, you should still consult a qualified practitioner to confirm if signs of a particular illness could be treated with herbs. Some plants are toxic, and that is the main reason why it is crucial to talk to professionals first. Lately, CBD products became the most significant boom in the market. And it is no wonder because people are aware nowadays that CBD is neither toxic nor psychoactive. On top of that, CBD has super positive effects on mental illnesses, such as anxiety, but also on arthritis or digestive issues. Internal parasites are also a common cat problem, especially since owners might not notice when it occurs. They harm the immune system of cats, so it is necessary to react as fast as possible. Fortunately, nowadays, we have antiparasitic medication based on CBD hemp that is super effective in eliminating internal parasites. The good news is also the fact that vets are more aware of the numerous benefits of CBD for animals. They would, most likely, be glad to recommend CBD products as one of the best alternative medications today.
Aromatherapy
Cats are sensitive to smell, which means that they, the same as humans, could enjoy aromatherapy principles. How does aromatherapy work? It uses essential oils to stimulate senses. Lavender, for instance, provides relaxation, and mint acts as a stimulant. It is crucial to keep in mind that essential oils should always be used externally. Don’t apply them directly to your cat unless your cat care product contains such ingredients. Stimulation of senses can often lead to a better mood, which further regulates the mental and physical state of both humans and cats.
Massage
And finally, massage is the last method that is not a medicine as such. However, it is an alternative therapy that alleviates pain and keeps joints supple. A practitioner or professional animal massager is a person you want to talk to if you feel that your cat has pain or joint issues. However, you can also learn how to give your cat a massage, which can make you even closer to her/him. Your cat will, for sure, appreciate such special treatment from your hands.
Choosing the right alternative therapy for your cat should never be your own decision unless you are a professional veterinarian. Let your vet locate the actual issue your cat has, and then, to recommend the right therapy for a particular health state.