Holistic Treatment for Feline Asthma

Holistic treatments can work with your cat's regular medication to alleviate asthma symptoms.

Feline asthma is a condition in which a cat's airways become blocked due to spasms in the bronchial tubes. Feline asthma can be treated with conventional medications and inhalers. These medications can be supplemented with holistic treatments, which are natural and noninvasive. Holistic treatments attempt to treat the "whole" animal and target psychological and emotional as well as physical health.

Herbal Supplements

Herbal supplements, when used alongside conventional medications, can help alleviate and treat your cat's asthma symptoms. Herbs that help treat bronchitis, asthma or coughing include phosporous and scullcap. Hawthorne berry can increase your cat's circulation, which can help relieve feline asthma symptoms. Herbal supplements can interfere with regular medications, so you should always consult with a veterinarian (specifically a homeopathic vet) before adding herbal supplements to your cat's diet.

Vitamins

Medications such as steroids that are used to treat feline asthma compromise your cat's immune system. Vitamins that help strengthen your cat's immune system can help to alleviate asthma symptoms. Try Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Vitamin B complex. Adding foods that are high in antioxidants to your cat's diet can also help its asthma symptoms.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a medical practice that began in China more than 5,000 years ago. Acupuncturists use needles to stimulate a series of points on the body to help facilitate the flow of energy. Acupuncture has been shown to help alleviate asthma symptoms, and can reduce the amount of steroids required to control a cat's asthma. Acupuncture is not painful for the animal. It must be performed by a veterinary surgeon.

References

• Acupuncture.com: Holistic Veterinary Medicine
• Ventinfo: Holistic Treatments for Cat Breathing Problems
• Acupuncture.com: Acupuncture, A Brief Introduction
• Feline Asthma Treatment