If you have a garden or a balcony where you can plant herbs in pots, there are a number of herbs that are safe for you cats for some common ailments.
In “10 Herbs to Improve Your Cat's Health,” PetMD shared that there are herbs which are very good for your cat’s health and are easy to grow.
However, PetMD stressed that you must consult your vet if the herbs can be given to your cat if he /she has a condition and because your vet knows your cat the most.
Catnip
This herb makes your cat very happy.
“It’s sort of like an after-work cocktail for cats, relieving them of stress and nervousness. Also, if your cat is always scratching, and seems to have itchy skin, a catnip ‘tea bath’ can soothe kitty’s skin,” PetMD said.
Cat Thyme
This is recommended for a cat who doesn’t react to catnip.
“That is if you can withstand its awful odor. Cat thyme has the same soothing effects as catnip, with the attendant feelings of contentment. And everyone loves a content cat. If you do go for cat thyme, however, you may want to pot a few plants, as they are very slow-growing,” PetMD said.
Valerian
This herb helps people relax and have a good night’s sleep. But it works as a stimulant for cats.
It is “good for transforming lazy, fat cats into exercise machines, “ PetMD said.
“Pair this with the fact that cats actually like eating the plant and you’ve got the perfect formula for a healthy, furry feline, “ PetMD added.
Chamomile, Calendula, and Echinacea
These three herbs have purported medicinal properties which include alleviation of certain skin issues such as itching.
“Discuss with your veterinarian how they best serve your cat and in what form. Many veterinary herbalists prepare chamomile, calendula, and echinacea as tinctures,” PetMD said.
Licorice Root
This tastes good to cats.
“As a natural cortisone, licorice root can be used to soothe itchy kitties with allergies, endocrine (the endocrine gland affects metabolism, growth and mood) and digestive issues, as well as respiratory problems like colds, since it soothes mucus membranes, “ said PetMD.
“Other benefits of the licorice root include blood cleansing and anti-inflammatory properties, so it can be very useful for cats with arthritis,” it added.
Cat’s Claw and Dandelion Root
These herbs are good for both cat and owner.
“A tincture made out of dandelion root and cat’s claw can help with itching for cats, especially those with allergies, as it contains natural cortisone. If kitty is trying to watch her figure, try making her a salad with dandelion leaves,” PetMD said.
Goldenseal
This herb is useful for your cat, PetMD said.
“Goldenseal can be used as a natural disinfectant on wounds and, in conjunction with saline, may help shrink swollen eyes due to infections and allergies,” PetMD said.
Vet approval
Please consult your vet before using the herbs, PetMD urged.
“You can also check in with your local holistic pet store for advice, and read our how-to guide for growing an indoor or outdoor herb garden Like you, your cat should benefit from these natural wellness boosters, but only under professional supervision. Happy herb growing,” PetMD said.