Valerian for Cats
Since the second century A.D., valerian's main use has been the treatment of restlessness, anxiety and sleep disorders, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Researchers suspect that valerian encourages the release of gamma aminobutyric acid, or GABA. GABA reduces anxiety and regulates nerve cells. Valerian effects cats similarly to Valium and veterinarians are studying its effect in pets as a possible treatment for anxiety and epilepsy.
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Valerian vs. Valium
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The drug Valium, also known as Diazepam, has been used as a muscle relaxer and sedative. However, it has drawbacks in terms of health. Valium may cause changes in behavior and amnesia in cats. Increased aggressiveness, hostility and irritability have also occurred from Valium usage. Diazepam causes chronic aggressiveness, anxiety, fear and learning disabilities in cats that were exposed to the drug prenatally. Diazepam-induced hepatic necrosis is a deadly side-effect that occurs in rare cases.
Adverse reactions are uncommon with valerian and impaired mental function does not appear to be a side effect. Long-term use of valerian has not been studied in cats.
Action
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Valerian contains the compounds valepotriates and sesquiterpene. These active constituents are derived from the herb's volatile oils. Not only does valerian reduce anxiety, it acts as an antispasmodic, antidepressant and vasodilator, according to Colorado State University.
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Anxiety
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As an anxiety reducer, valerian acts similarly to Diazepam by reducing the breakdown of GABA, according to Dr. Shawn Messonnier in his book, "Natural Health Bible for Dogs and Cats." Valerian reduces feelings of fear or expectation and has a sedative effect which enhances sleep quality.
Additional Benefits
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Valerian may be a useful treatment in cats suffering with digestive disorders. The anti-spasmodic actions in valerian's active constituents may reduce cramping in the digestive tract. Additionally, valerian may be therapeutic in reducing the symptoms of epilepsy, according to Messonnier.
Valerian & Cats
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Cats have strong reactions to the valerian aroma. What smells like dirty, old socks to a human is enticing to cats, according to Colorado State University. The intensity of a cat's reaction to valerian was once used to determine the quality of valerian products in 18th century apothecaries.
Supplementing With Valerian
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Appropriate dosages of valerian have not been determined for use in felines. A veterinarian should be consulted before administering the herb as a therapeutic supplement. Pregnant cats and cats suffering from kidney or liver disease should not take valerian. Only high-quality valerian products should be used to avoid contaminants and microbes in lesser quality products.
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References
- Photo Credit cat image by Dusan Radivojevic from Fotolia.com
