Home Treatments for Cats With Feline Leukemia & Anemia

Feline Leukemia

• Feline leukemia is also known as FeLV and is most common in cats that spend a great deal of time outdoors. Female cats that are infected with FeLV will pass the virus on to their offspring during the birth process. The symptoms associated with feline leukemia are loss of appetite, weight loss, poor coat condition, fever, pale gums, seizures, enlarged lymph nodes, diarrhea, urinary tract infections, skin infections, eye conditions and changes in behavior. While there is no known cure for feline leukemia, herbal treatments may help to enhance the cat's immune system. Most cats with leukemia get sick from secondary infections that are caused by a weakened immune system. Cats can benefit from supplementation with herbs such as Milk Thistle, which is known to cleanse the liver. This helps to remove impurities from the body, improving the function of the immune system. Tumeric extract is a potent antioxidant that may help to reduce inflammation in the body. If you are considering herbal home treatments for your cat with leukemia, it is important to contact a holistic veterinarian. This will ensure you are using the appropriate home treatments that will be best for your cat, along with the right dosage amounts.

Anemia

• Feline anemia is characterized by a reduced amount of red blood cells within a cat's body. The most common symptom in cats that are anemic is the presence of very pale gums. Pica is another symptom of anemia that consists of eating things that are not food such as fabric or plastic. Veterinarians treat anemia with dietary changes and in severe cases, blood transfusions may be necessary. Home treatment for feline anemia may consist of nutritional support to the liver and immune system. According to The Cat Health Guide.org, there is a wide range of herbal treatments that may help your cat. Indian ginseng has been found to support the hemoglobin in the blood and is beneficial for cats with anemia. Another herb that may help cats with this condition is Dandelion, which can improve liver function and support the digestive system. Home treatments with herbs are not meant as a substitute for veterinary care. Herbal treatments are meant to support convention treatment methods. Consult your veterinarian before giving your cat any herbal supplement.

Home Care

• If your cat develops a serious illness such as leukemia or anemia, it is important to be sure to follow the guidelines your veterinarian has set for your cat. This may include providing high quality nutrition for your cat and giving your cat any medications your veterinarian has prescribed. In cats with leukemia, it is important to spay or neuter your cat and keep him from roaming the neighborhood. This will help to prevent the spread of disease. In cats that are anemic, it is important to treat your cat for fleas and parasites. Anemic cats may become quite sick if they are infested with fleas or parasites because these pets feed from the cat's blood. Always be sure your cat has an abundance of clean, fresh water and regular exercise. Doing these things at home can compliment the treatments provided by your veterinarian.