Holistic Veterinary Cures for Mast Cell Tumors in Cats

It is a scary thing to have your cat diagnosed with cancer. Mast cell tumors are common in cats, but most are cured with surgery and various follow-up treatments. All cancer treatments are tough to endure. Some people rely on Western medicine to kill the cancer, but use holistic medicine as an adjunct therapy to lessen side effects of chemotherapy, and possibly shorten treatment time. There are several facets to holistic treatment.

  1. Diet

    • The cat's diet should be extremely high quality and include small amounts of fresh meat. Cats are true carnivores, and as such, need high amounts of protein, a moderate amount of fat, and substantially fewer carbohydrates to keep their bodies running in top shape. For a cat undergoing cancer treatment, a good diet is essential to take stress off of the liver, boost the immune system, and keep body systems balanced.

    Immune Stimulation

    • Stimulating the immune system helps the cat's body fight off the cancer itself. Several herbs have been shown to boost immunity, including echinacea, milk thistle, Reishi mushrooms, and selenium. Each herbal supplement is available in a liquid or powdered form that can be sprinkled over the cat's food. There are various proprietary blends that combine a number of immune-stimulating herbs into a single dose. If your cat is on other medications, it is best to check with the vet before beginning any herbal therapy. Occasionally herbs can interact with drugs and produce a bad reaction, or sometimes they combine in the body and render each other ineffective.

    Acupuncture

    • Mast cells contain histamines that get released into the bloodstream and cause hives and rashes. A certified veterinary acupuncturist can help reduce the associated inflammation as well as relieve pain, and many cats find the experience soothing. Acupuncture may also improve the cat's neurological function, which may help to reverse any stiffness or paralysis associated with the tumor.

    Herbal "Cures"

    • Holistic cancer treatment is a huge industry for people and pets alike. There are hundreds of "miracle cure"-type herbal concoctions that claim to cure cancer in two doses per day, and most are quite expensive. There is no "cure" for cancer, only treatment options that, along with lifestyle changes, can gradually help the body fight the malignant cells. Some of these herbal blends do have value as a supplementary treatment for side effects from medication or as immune-boosting supplements, but for every one valid blend, there are a hundred scams. Before investing in any herbal preparation, consult a holistic vet to determine if it is safe and effective.