Practical ways of using herbs to improve your pet’s health and wellbeing
For centuries humans have been aware of the many health benefits of herbs and how to use them to treat various ailments and diseases, and many of these herbs can be just as beneficial for our pets. Both cats and dogs love to chew on grass, and if you already have a culinary or medicinal herb garden you may have noticed them nibbling occasionally on some of your herbs too. As long as this is not obsessive and your pet is in good health, don’t worry.
If used properly there are many popular culinary and medicinal herbs that are known to be safe and beneficial for cats and dogs. For example, bushy flowering herbs like Rosemary, Catnip and Yarrow are not just pretty but also provide shade and shelter for pets, and most importantly they repel fleas. Catnip also acts as a natural mosquito repellent and antiseptic, so rub fresh catnip onto minor scrapes or cuts. For insect bites apply finely chopped Basil, and to quickly stop a bleeding wound in an emergency, simply chew on a few Yarrow leaves and apply it to the wound as a “spit” poultice.
Members can click on highlighted text to read more on the plants mentioned
Thyme, Basil and Mint help to promote healthy digestion, and adding Thyme leaves to your pet’s food once a week helps to ward off problems with worms and parasites. Freshly brewed Thyme Tea can also help your pet with a cough and infections of the throat, and Mint, with its antibacterial properties, goes a long way to improving bad breath in pets.
Both cats and dogs love chewing on Barley Grass and this has a positive effect on their bones and muscles. For arthritis and inflammation in older pets, try Basil and Parsley. And, because they have a wonderful effect on the musculoskeletal system, Rosehips are administered primarily for osteoarthritis, arthritis and other joint diseases, so allow them to develop on your roses in autumn and harvest them to make rosehip tea for the whole family.
You can boost your dog or cat’s mood and even enhance their memory using herbs. Nervines are herbs that can help to support your pet’s nervous system, and these can be divided into relaxants and stimulants. Relaxants like Lemon Balm promote calmness, which can help your pet to memorise things better. Stimulants such as Rosemary can also aid your pet’s memory by improving circulation to the brain.
Catnip is known to give felines a buzz, brought on by nepetalactone, a chemical that is structurally similar to a particular feline pheromone. However, catnip has the opposite effect in dogs, by acting as a mild sedative, so feeding your dog some catnip can be a safe and gentle way to relax Fido. The herb can also help with car sickness and stomach upsets.
How can I encourage my pet to eat herbs?
Finely chopped fresh herbs can be added to your pet’s food, or they can be brewed as tea and added to drinking bowls or meals. For topical applications the tea can be sprayed directly onto your pet’s skin using a plant mister.
What is the correct dosage of herbs to use on pets?
If you’re not sure what sort of dosage to give your pets when it comes to herbs, it’s generally safe to follow this rule: Use 1 teaspoon of fresh herbs per 10kg of your pet’s body weight.
When not to administer herbs to pets?
With pregnant and lactating animals, or in the case of a chronic illness, you should always consult with your veterinarian first before embarking on a home treatment programme.
Why do dogs eat grass?
Image by VIVIANE M. from PixabayGrass is a medicinal herb for dogs, and you may notice that sometimes your dog has this strange urge to eat it and can’t wait to get out the door and gobble down large mouthfuls, just to vomit it all out moments later, or perhaps it may sniff around to find just the right patch to chew on occasionally, without any negative side effects.
The truth is that nobody is actually 100% sure why dogs do this. We do know that wild dogs were not carnivores, and they were also not omnivores, but rather they survived as opportunistic scavengers consuming almost anything edible they could find. In the wild they would eat their entire pray including the plant matter within the stomach, and they also ate other vegetable matter, fallen fruit and berries.
Although today’s modern dog breeds are a far cry from their wild ancestors, it is believed that they may instinctually seek out grass to eat, perhaps because it’s most readily available. And if you have herbs in your garden you may often spot them nibbling away at them too, so it’s good to know which herbs are good and which ones are bad for your pooch.
Specialists have found that grass can be a form of self-medication, and some dogs will frantically seek out grass to relieve an upset stomach. Your dog may also just be trying to compensate for a lack of fibre in his diet, and some pet parents find that once they change their dog’s food to a higher fibre one, grass is no longer as appealing to their pet.
Understanding your dog’s behaviour is vital, and if its happy but chews grass sometimes and even vomits occasionally, but otherwise seems healthy, don't worry. However, if it happens often this could be an indication of more serious issues like gastric reflux or inflammatory bowel disease, so it would be a good idea to take it to the vet for a check-up.
If you are concerned about your dog’s chewing on the wrong plants, the best alternative would be to create a special doggy patch of grass and an herb garden especially for them, and hopefully it will become their favourite safe space in the garden :)
Caution:
Grass eating seems to be a general doggie behaviour, and it won’t harm them as long as the lawn has not been sprayed or treated with poisons, pesticides, and herbicides.
Sometimes the grass can end up getting stuck at the back of the nose, inside the nasal chambers, causing fits of sneezing. This is more common in cats than dogs, but if it happens, the grass may need to be physically removed by a vet.
Why do cats eat grass?
Many experts believe that although grass is not necessary for a cats' digestive system, they chew on the soft blades to settle an upset stomach, much like humans will pop an antacid tablet. Prior to being wholly domesticated big cats like lions or tigers foraged for food in the wild, often ingesting their entire prey, bones, hair and all. This made vomiting a necessary part of their digestive process, and still today, even the most pampered kitty instinctively knows that chewing on grass will remove the problematic waste matter in its digestive system.
If a cat feels blocked up its natural instinct is to sweep all that out with the fibre found in vegetation, and if vegetation is not available they may resort to some crazy alternatives. Cat owners often wonder why their little darling simply loves to chew on toilet rolls, not realising that this is not them just having fun and wrecking the place, it’s actually motivated by their need for fibre.
Grass offers cats relief from a variety of issues, and especially in the form of hairballs, and because cats lack the proper enzymes to digest grass they will eat it and then vomit the grass straight out, along with the hairball and any other indigestible items.
Researchers speculate that cats also seek out grass to chew on because they require folic acid (vitamin B9) to aid digestion and support cell growth. Kittens get their required daily dose of from their mother's milk, but larger cats can develop anaemia if they don't get enough, and instinctively chew grass to supplement this deficiency.
So, if your cat chews on some grass occasionally and vomits it out but otherwise seems fine, don’t worry. However, if it seems to be an obsession, your furry friend may be coping with a nutritional deficiency, so speak with your veterinarian before trying to treat the issue on your own.
Similar to their pet parents, cats also partake in what's called "stress eating" or "emotional eating," causing a kitty to eat, not to relieve hunger pangs but rather to relieve anxiety or to satisfy an oral fixation. Just like us humans, when stress hits they need an outlet, therefore, a cat that constantly eats grass or plants may be exhibiting signs of displacement behavior. Other cats may not stress eat, but can exhibit other coping traits like over-grooming or excessive vocalization when they are anxious.
For all these reasons, cat owners really need to understand their cats behaviour, and if you notice your fur baby is chewing on grass obsessively, or shows other signs of stress or anxiety, like withdrawing from family members or displaying unusually aggressive behavior, take them to the vet for a check-up.
Caution:
Be cautioned the sometimes grass can end up getting stuck at the back of the nose, inside the nasal chambers, causing fits of sneezing. This is more common in cats than dogs, but if it happens the grass may need to be physically removed by a vet. Otherwise, the only danger to them would be if the grass has been sprayed or treated with poisons, pesticides, and herbicides.
Is Barley Grass good for cats & dogs?
Barley grass is good for your petsThis cereal grain serves as a major animal feed crop, and barley grass is one of our modern superfoods, and sold as a dietary supplement. Barley grass is particularly known for its high chlorophyll content which oxygenates the bloodstream. It also contains a high proportion of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus which has a positive effect on the bones and muscles. Barley green tea or pearl barley water is given to convalescing patients and animals as it is rich in protein, B vitamins and minerals.
If you sow a patch of barley as grass, your pet will love it, and even a small pot on a balcony will be enough to satisfy your pet.
How do I give Barley to my pet?
If you have barley grass growing at home your cats and dogs will naturally find and chew on it, otherwise you could make it into an herbal tea to add to their meals or drinking bowls.
How to make medicinal barley tea:
This green tea, or pearl barley water, can be added to your pet’s water or meals occasionally for a tonic boost. The tea can be taken daily to treat many ailments, including: high cholesterol, kidney and bladder ailments, osteoporosis, fevers, flu, bronchitis, stomach disorders, cramps, diabetes, arthritis, and even hay fever.
Place a quarter cup of freshly chopped barley grass in a tea cup and fill with boiling water. Allow to steep for 5 minutes before straining. Larger quantities can be brewed and stored in the refrigerator.
Alternatively, if you do not have barley grass, boil 1 cup of pearl barley in 2 litres of water for 1 hour, topping up with more water if necessary. Strain, discard the barley, and store the water in the refrigerator.
Members can click here to read more about Barley Grass
Is Catnip & Catmint good for Cats?
Cats love Catnip Cats love catnip, and it's perfectly safe - there's nothing in it that can harm your cat, and it may even be helpful for their digestive tract. However, if by some chance your cat eats a large amount of catnip it could cause a mild tummy upset, but as all cat lovers know, your little darling will just vomit it all out!
Filled with minerals such as magnesium, vitamins C and E, tannins, flavonoids, and essential oils, catnip offers a variety of health benefits for cats. And due to its antibacterial and healing properties, it also acts as a natural antiseptic, so gently rub some fresh catnip onto your pet’s minor scrapes or cuts. Most cats will chew on the plant regularly so it’s not necessary to add it to their meals.
Both of you will love the fact that catnip also acts as a natural flea and mosquito repellent, so plant some catnip in your garden and rub fresh or dried catnip into your pets bedding, or use catnip essential oil to spray topically.
A fresh sprig of catnip, or a toy stuffed with this intoxicating herb is a sure-fire way to catch the attention of even the most aloof family cat, and may even send some kitties into a frenzy of entertaining antics, from repeatedly rolling around in the herb to munching on the leaves, and then racing madly around the room! But catnip isn't the only plant that can affect cats this way, and closely related catmint can have a similar effect.
All the excitement is brought on by nepetalactone, a chemical that is structurally similar to a particular feline pheromone. Scientists have found that catnip and catmint contain higher quantities of nepetalactone than other species of the mint family, which explains why they are No.1 for giving felines a buzz.
Are all cats affected by Catnip?
Being affected by catnip is believed to be an inherited trait, and about 30% of cats have no observable response to catnip because they simply don't have the receptors to be affected by nepetalactone. And, despite their playful nature kittens don't generally respond to catnip until after their first six months, and as your cat gets older you may find that it loses some interest in the herb.
Why does Catnip make my cat aggressive?
Some cats, usually males, will become aggressive when you give them catnip, possibly as a result of the nepetalactone which is connected to mating behaviour. If this is the case with your cat, then stop giving them catnip.
Is Catnip good for dogs?
Despite its name, catnip isn’t exclusively for cats, and you can use catnip as a home remedy for your dogs. If you have a catnip plant you’ll see your dogs in the plants sooner or later, but just don’t expect them to go into raptures. Cats and dogs are opposite in so many ways so it is no surprise that they react differently to catnip, and unlike cats which delight in the herb, your dog may show some interest but it just won’t have the same effect on them.
How do I give Catnip to my dog?
While catnip typically acts as a stimulant in cats, it has the opposite effect in dogs, by acting as a mild sedative, so if you feed your dog some freshly chopped catnip or make some catnip tea to add to the water bowl before or during stressful events like fireworks, a thunderstorm, or a trip to the vet, it can be a safe and gentle way to relax your dog. The herb can also help with car sickness and stomach upsets so if your pet tends to experience motion sickness in the car, try giving some catnip 30 minutes before your trip.
Finally, dogs can benefit from catnip if you purchase or prepare your own essential oil from the plant, dilute it with water and apply it with a mister to their skin and bedding. Catnip oil is 10 times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than the compound used in most commercial insect repellents, and it’s effective against fleas too.
Caution:
Catnip should not be used as a daily supplement for dogs, but only to occasionally calm them down, or for an upset stomach.
Members can click here to read more about growing and using Catnip & Catmint
Is Basil good for cats & dogs?
Basil is good for insect bitesBasil has numerous health-promoting properties for humans, cats and dogs alike, but for pets, it must be given in small quantities. Basil contains a high level of antioxidants that help to protect against many types of illnesses. It supports the digestive system, has an anti-inflammatory effect, and will relieve arthritis pain. Because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, a paste of freshly grated basil is a natural first aid remedy for insect bites. Basil will also help to calm down an anxious pet, so use it before taking a road trip to the vet, during thunderstorms, when moving home, and other stressful situations.
How do I give Basil to my pet?
You can give fresh Basil to your pets straight from the garden, or simply chop and sprinkle it over their food.
Caution:
Basil is not dangerous for cats but they should only get a very small amount of basil occasionally, and if they do eat too much, as with eating all plants and herbs, vomiting can occur.
Members can click here to read more about growing and using Basil
Is Thyme good for cats & dogs?
Thyme is safe to use on both cats and dogs, and is still used medicinally today as an expectorant, a type of cough medicine used to help clear mucus or phlegm from the airways.
How do I give Thyme to my pet?
Thyme should not be given to pets on a daily basis, but only when required medicinally. The essential oils contained in the plant are antiviral with disinfectant and antibacterial effects. Freshly brewed thyme tea can help your pet with a cough and infections of the throat. It is also great for relief from gastrointestinal complaints, and will repel worms.
Caution:
Pets with liver and kidney disease should not receive thyme, because the ingredient called “thymol” is an essential oil that can have adverse effects on these conditions.
Members can click here to read more about growing and using Thyme
Is Turmeric good for cats & dogs?
This East Asian herb is gaining popularity with gardeners around the world as it is easy to grow in garden beds or pots. Its tubers are highly valued by botanists and healers alike, and more than 10 000 scientific papers have been published on the health promoting properties of turmeric, and it is increasingly being used in veterinary medicine. Turmeric is known to be highly anti-inflammatory and relieves arthritis pain. It boosts the immune system, is a good digestive, stimulates the bile, and also has wound healing properties.
Caution:
Turmeric is only used for treating dogs, and is never used for cats.
How do I give Turmeric to my dog?
The finely grated fresh tuber, or powdered turmeric, can be added to your dog’s meals, but if you are using powdered turmeric, use half the dosage.
Caution:
If your dog is on any medication, always consult with your veterinarian before you administer turmeric.
Because turmeric has a blood-thinning effect it must never be given before surgery, and if your dog is already receiving blood-thinning medication, you should avoid turmeric. In addition, the tuber is biliary, which can be problematic in animals with gallstones.
Members can click here to read more about growing and using Turmeric
Is Mint good for cats & dogs?
Spearmint is good to freshen the breathMint is a popular garden herb with many health benefits for both humans and pets. It is rich in Vitamins A and C, which support healthy bones, skin, and vision, as well as the immune system. The fresh leaves are a natural source of dietary fibre, which promotes healthy digestion. It soothes upset stomachs, and all mints will relieve nausea and diarrhoea, but especially peppermint. If you think that a minty fresh breath is not possible for your pet, try mint! Mint and especially Peppermint has natural antiviral, antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, which are really good for dental hygiene and to refresh the breath.
How do I give Mint to my pet?
Pets shouldn’t eat more than a leaf or two of mint occasionally, or they could experience some level of gastrointestinal distress. Some may not like nibbling on mint, and dislike it added to their food, but if you brew some fresh mint tea and add it to their drinking bowls, they may take to it easier.
Caution:
Fortunately, most of the varieties, like peppermint, spearmint, lavender mint, apple mint, and even pineapple mint, are totally safe to use on pets. However, you should steer clear of Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) as it is a type of non-culinary mint that is toxic for both people and pets.
Mint should not be used excessively as continual daily use can have a negative effect on the liver and kidneys. In dogs and cats with pre-existing diseases, discuss administering mint with your veterinarian first.
Members can click here to read more about growing and using Mint
Is Lemon Balm good for cats & dogs?
Lemon Balm is a natural fly and insect repellentLemon Balm, known scientifically as Melissa officinalis, is a non-toxic herb that can be used on dogs, cats, and even horses. It's important to note that while Lemon Balm is non-toxic for cats, it's not a dietary necessity for them. Lemon balm's safety for cat’s stems from its lack of toxic compounds that are typically dangerous to felines, such as those found in lemons and lavender. Therefore, cats' livers can process lemon balm without the risk of liver damage, so if your fur-ball sometimes munches on lemon balm, it won’t do any harm.
Lemon balm can be used on cats and dogs as a healing herb for wounds, and is a great ingredient found in many canine coat and shampoo products. Because it is also a natural fly and insect repellent, if you bruise a few leaves and apply them to minor scratches and wounds, lemon balm will aid healing and repel flies and other insects, helping to keep the wound clean so it can heal quickly. An herbal tea can also be applied.
Lemon balm is great supplement for dogs with many benefits, but the most common way it is used is as a calming agent, or to treat anxiety. In dogs, anxiety and stomach sensitivities are often closely linked, and luckily lemon balm is also great for your dog’s digestive system. Use this herb as a natural sedative if your friend gets nervous on a long road trip, during relocation or boarding, or even just during a visit to the vet. One of the best advantages of using lemon balm is that, although it has sedative properties, it will not make your pet groggy, but rather more aware and focused. Because of this awesome benefit, many dog owners use lemon balm as a supplement for older dogs who suffer from dementia or confusion. Lemon balm is also an excellent holistic option for treating respiratory infections and helps to secure the elasticity of the lungs naturally.
Cats can also benefit from the mild sedative properties of lemon balm, making it an excellent natural remedy for cats struggling with sleep disturbances or restlessness.
How do I give Lemon Balm to my pet?
The most cost-effective way to add lemon balm to your pet’s diet is grow your own plants. You can either finely chop the leaves and add them to their food, or brew tea and mix it into their water bowls.
Caution:
Lemon balm is a safe, effective herb that is considered very mild, so the allergic reaction rate is relatively low. However, if your pet has an adverse reaction to the herb, consult your veterinarian immediately.
Members can click here to read more about growing and using Lemon Balm
Is Parsley good for cats and dogs?
Parsley supports the immune systemIf your pets chew occasionally on parsley plants in the garden, this is not problematic, and as long as it is in moderation parsley has many health benefits for your pets. However, some sites list it as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses as there are some significant risks that are associated with your pets consuming large amounts of parsley. The main toxicity concern is photosensitization. Photosensitisation is when the skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight and will more readily become sun-damaged. It can be very painful and in extreme cases can lead to loss of extremities such as ear tips.
Parsley is rich in folic acids, and antioxidants which support the immune system. It’s packed with potassium, and one of the best natural sources of Vitamin K you can give to your pet. Vitamin K helps maintain a healthy blood clotting system and promotes liver health. Parsley is also a natural source of Vitamin C which provides immune support, and Vitamin A which is important for the development of your pet’s vision and immune health.
Parsley is high in fibre and a diuretic, meaning it helps the body flush out fluids and move foods through the digestive tract. Its anti-inflammatory properties help promote good kidney health, and its antimicrobial properties promote good urinary health and can also help to freshen the breath.
How do I give parsley to my pet?
Finely chopped fresh parsley can be added to their meals, but that doesn’t mean you should add it to every meal your pet consumes. Dosage is crucial when administering parsley to pets. Larger dogs should not be fed more than a teaspoon of parsley daily, and smaller dogs and cats should not receive more than half a teaspoon.
Many dog treats and chews are made with parsley, and dental dog treats are also made with parsley, as its antimicrobial properties help to freshen pet’s breath. Treats containing parsley should also not be given excessively.
Caution:
Large amounts of the herb can be toxic to your pet due to photosensitization. If you know your pet has consumed large amounts of parsley take it for treatment, and if your pet has existing kidney problems, consult with your vet first, or avoid using parsley.
If your pet is pregnant or nursing, do not give her parsley, as parsley can cause uterus contractions, leading to potential miscarriages. If consumed in large amounts it can also significantly slow down, or even stop milk production.
Members can click here to read more about growing and using Parsley
Are Rosehips good for cats and dogs?
Did you know that Rosehips, those glowing red fruits of roses that are so abundant in autumn, are extremely good for humans and our four-legged companions? Rosehips are rich vitamin C, flavonoids and galactolipids, which provide energy to the cells, and are an essential part of cell membranes. Rosehips help reduce fever and are anti-inflammatory, supporting your pet’s immune system. And because they have a positive effect on the musculoskeletal system, rosehips are administered primarily for osteoarthritis, arthritis and other joint diseases.
How do I give Rosehips to my pet?
They can be dried, ground and mixed daily with your dog or cat's food, or they can be brewed into a delicious tea. The daily dose should not be more than a teaspoon of rose hip powder for large dogs, less for smaller animals.
Caution:
Dogs or cats with bladder weakness or kidney problems should not be given rosehips.
Is Rosemary good for cats and dogs?
Rosemary is good to add to your pets diet Rosemary is safe for both humans and pets, and good to add to your buddies’ diet. Ursolic acid is a constituent of this herb, which can help to improve and support muscle growth, particularly the skeletal muscles. It can also reduce fatty liver disease as well as glucose intolerance. This makes rosemary a good ally in the fight against overweight and obesity. It is also a powerful antioxidant which helps fight the free radicals in the body. And, as it enhances digestion, it leads to a healthier gut and helps prevent gastrointestinal infections and gas.
How do I give Rosemary to my pet?
Moderation is the key when using any herb, and especially with Rosemary, which should be offered in small quantities. Most forms can be used, the fresh or dried plant, a tea or tincture. Both the fresh and dried herb can be mixed into your pet’s food, but use no more than 1g for small animals and 2g for larger dogs. If you are using a tincture that is given orally once per day, generally no more than 1/8 teaspoon is used per 10 pounds of your pet’s weight.
Caution:
Never use undiluted Rosemary essential oil either internally or externally, and avoid using rosemary in pregnant or lactating pets.
Do not use the essential oil, even if diluted, on any pet suffering from seizures.
Members can click here to read more about growing and using Rosemary
Is Yarrow good for cats and dogs?
Yarrow, also known as Achillea millefolium, is a great herb in your pet arsenal for any unexpected wounds as it is used externally to quickly stop bleeding. In an emergency, simply chew a few leaves and apply it to the wound as a “spit” poultice. Yarrow is also extremely pretty in the garden, and most importantly it also repels fleas.
Members can click here to read more about growing and using Yarrow
Which herbs and spices are not good for cats and dogs?
It’s very important to know what not to give your four-legged friends so always do your own research or ask a veterinarian before adding herbs or spices to their diets. Here are some that are known to be bad for your pets.
Allspice, Bay Leaf, Cloves, Curry, Hops, Marjoram, and Mustard Seed are all unsafe. Paprika is also listed as unsafe, but strangely Cayenne Pepper is not, but I doubt that Fluffy and Fido will appreciate the burning taste.
Garlic is also toxic to pets, as are all its cousins like Onions, Scallions, and Chives.
If you grow herbs that aren’t pet-safe, observe your pets and if you notice them chewing on them, make sure your buddies can’t reach them.
Conclusion
Medicinal herbs offer a lot of healthy nutrients and healing effects for our pet families, and I hope that you are encouraged to occasionally mix healthy garden greens in with your pet’s food, and if there are mild ailments, to first try a natural herbal treatment from your home garden. However, keep in mind that the recommended dosage amounts must be followed.
Try to find a veterinarian who is open to using herbs in their practice, and remember, all pets are different, and what is right for one is not necessarily right for another. If you have any doubts, seek advice from a professional before embarking on any home treatment, and especially for pets with serious ailments. Even safe herbs may counteract with supplements or medications, and must be given in proper doses.
