For humans, natural herbs and herbal supplements offer countless health benefits. But what about your cats and dogs? Can they benefit from these supplements?
It depends on what kind of supplements you want to give your pets. Not all dietary supplements undergo regulatory processes. Plus, not all natural herbs are safe for pets. Just because something is natural doesn’t mean it is non-toxic. That being said, plenty of herbs can be used as herbal supplements for pets.
Natural Herbs as Herbal Supplements for Pets
Natural herbs can benefit your feline and canine companions when they suffer from an occasional digestive issue or other similar health problems. They can be mixed with their food and given separately.
But it is essential to know which supplements are safe for your pets. Giving them a natural herb that may be toxic can trigger an adverse reaction.
Fortunately for you, we have compiled a list of all-natural herbs that are safe for your pets. Here are our top 6 picks:
1. Basil
Fresh basil leaves are rich in vitamin A and excellent for solving digestive issues and common flu.
- For Cats: Since basil leaves contain vitamin A, they help improve bone and teeth health. Some cats even love the taste of basil leaves, which can be used as a seasoning in their foods. Moreover, the leaves create a calming and soothing effect on felines.
- For Dogs: For dogs, small quantities of basil are safe. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties prevent cell damage, reduce arthritis pain, and stop diseases such as cancer from prevailing.
2. Parsley
Parsley is considered safe for pets as long as it is given in limited quantities. It’s rich in fibre and helps flush out excess fluids and foods from the body.
- For Cats: Since parsley is naturally anti-fungal in nature, it helps with urinary tract infections in cats.
- For Dogs: Parsley is known to freshen up your dog’s breath and also helps with UTIs. Moreover, it is also used for relieving itch.
3. Catnip
Catnip belongs to the mint family and is beneficial for treating cough. Catnip teas also offer countless health benefits.
- For Cats: Catnip is famous for having a considerable effect on cats. Catnip is used to relieve anxiety in cats, mainly because it mimics a feline sex hormone that makes cats feel calm, affectionate, and playful (sometimes aggressive).
- For Dogs: Surprisingly, dogs can also be given catnip to treat digestive problems. It helps calm their digestive tract muscles, which prevents waste materials from passing too quickly out of the body.
4. Sage
Sage is another staple herb, commonly used as a seasoning in different foods. It is packed with essential nutrients, including vitamin B6 and calcium.
- For Cats: Since sage has inherent anti-bacterial properties, it prevents infectious diseases in cats and is also beneficial for treating skin ulcerations.
- For Dogs: Sage contains rosmarinic acid that helps treat seasonal allergies in dogs. Moreover, it kills odour-causing bacteria from the mouth, freshening up your dog’s breath.
5. Thyme
Besides being used as a seasoning, thyme offers multiple medicinal benefits. It contains compounds that fight bacterial and fungal infections.
- For Cats: Thyme contains a compound known as thymol. Thymol helps flush out worms from your cat’s gastrointestinal tract. Moreover, it also rids the stomach of hairballs and improves the overall tummy health.
- For Dogs: Thyme is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which help boost the immune system of dogs. Moreover, it helps fight infections and eliminates gingivitis. Thyme is extensively used in many dog toothpastes.
6. Cilantro
Cilantro has many health benefits, including a reduced risk for heart disease, seizures, and obesity. It is also known for controlling conditions such as diabetes.
- For Cats: Cilantro is antioxidant, so it significantly reduces the risk of cancer in cats. Moreover, it is also beneficial for their kidneys because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
- For Dogs: Cilantro is one of the best natural herbs for dogs. It can ease upset stomachs and boosts the immune system. Moreover, it helps dogs with bone development.
