Top Ten Herbs For Cats

Top Ten Herbs For Cats Image © vencav – Fotolia.com

Herbs have played a special part in helping cats gain optimum health and well being. Certain herbs have been found beneficial in various aspects of a cat’s health, whether for prevention and treatment of diseases or for overall well-being.

It’s important to note first of all that some plants are toxic to cats. As for the herbs we have listed, you should consult a veterinarian herbalist in order to utilize them in the correct amounts. It’s also worth noting that herbs do not always affect cats in the same way that they affect humans – and sometimes the effect is completely different!

For centuries, cats lived in the wild and actually benefited from several herbs and plants for their survival and well being. However the lifestyle of the feline has changed drastically when people began confining them in closed and high walled spaces. However, it cannot be denied that recently, many owners have begun considering the benefits which natural herbs can give to their pets.

For those who have the luxury of space at home for gardening, planting of herbs such as catnip, rosemary, cat thyme, valerian, pennyroyal, and cats claw are suggested.

You can also add licorice root, dandelion root, and goldenseal to your list as these herbs are also claimed to be beneficial in treating a number of conditions which your cat could suffer from. Some of these prove to be useful not just in your own kitchen, but also in giving your cats a boost in their health and well being.

Catnip is of course one of the most popular plants with cats. The leaves and stems of this herb contain nepetalactone – a compound which is highly attractive to cats and seems to cause them to experience a kind of “high”, complete with strange behavior and a great deal of enjoyment. ^[1]

On the other hand, valerian is highly valued by humans because of its calming and soothing effects. ^[2] However, it takes a different role for cats. It actually acts as a stimulant! Whenever cats get in contact with this herb, it turns them from a lazy feline, to an actively exercising machine.

Licorice also proves to be a wonderful choice of herb for your garden if you have cats. This herb is known for its effects against allergies, digestive, and endocrine problems. In addition to its anti-inflammatory and blood-cleansing properties, licorice root is also beneficial in soothing respiratory conditions such as colds.

Chamomile, Calendula and Echinacea are all also considered valuable for cats.

Ok here’s the link to the original Top 10 Herbs For Cats tutorial, with more detail.

References:

[1] http://www.growveg.com/growblogpost.aspx?id=163
[2] http://pets.thenest.com/calming-herbs-cats-8792.html

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Top Ten Herbs For Cats
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