Supportive Immune System Care for Cats

The feline immune system interacts with all of the organs and cells in the body. According to veterinarian Dr. Randy Kidd, founder of the Honoring the Animals Holistic Center in Kansas City, stress and depression lower immune response. Dr. Richard H. Pitcairn, founder of the Animal Natural Health Center in Eugene, Oregon, says that a healthy diet is the best form of preventative medicine for the immune system.

  1. Herbal Supplements

    • Licorice root contains compounds that have a similar chemical structure to natural anti-inflammatory steroids that exist in the body. This herb enhances immune system function but shouldn't be given to cats that are taking heart medication or cats that have renal failure. Use burdock root and red clover together in a tea or sprinkle them onto your cat's food. In "Herbal Cat Care," Dr. Kidd states that echinacea is the best herb for immune system balancing because it reinforces white blood cells, interferon and interleukin production and activity. Echinacea also has strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Administer echinacea tincture on top of your cat's favorite treat five days a week for prevention of immune system problems. Treat more severe immune-related diseases like malignant anemia or immune mediated intestinal disease with a daily dose of the echinacea tincture.

    Vitamins

    • Omega fatty acids are not naturally produced in the feline body, so you should include this vitamin in either their diet or in supplemental form. These essential acids boost the immune system while reducing dangerous free radicals that are linked to cancer. B vitamins like niacin, riboflavin and thiamine support a strong immune system. L-Lysine is an amino acid that also boosts the immune system. It is typically prescribed to cats with upper respiratory disease according to veterinarian Dr. Ann Samsell of Cat Care Limited in Eugene, Oregon. Use L-Lysine that is designated for feline consumption instead of the human supplement. Human L-Lysine vitamins contain propylene glycol which causes feline anemia.

    Preparation and Dosage

    • The easiest way to administer herbs is to grind them into small pieces and sprinkle a small pinch directly onto the food at each feeding. Add teas to food or water three times a day by simmering 8 tbsp. fresh or 4 tsp. dried herb in 1 qt. of water for 15 minutes then straining 1/4 cup of tea into the food or water. Fill glass jars with herbs and glycerin and allow the herbs to soak for 10 days to make tinctures. Strain the tincture into a clean jar and store in a refrigerator. Apply five drops of the tincture with an eyedropper at the corners of the mouth three times daily for every 10 pounds of cat weight. Vitamins should be prescribed by a licensed veterinarian and administered using Pill Pocket treats or in water.

    Delivery Method

    • It is essential to administer your cat's treatment via the mouth where the vitamins or herbs will make contact with the tongue. According to Dr. Kidd, this delivery method ensures a whole body response that will activate all of the organ systems throughout the body. The immune system is specifically enhanced through this activation. However, the orally induced response is sought with any immune system treatment.