Herbal Antibiotics for Cats

Treating cats with alternative measures is a positive step towards their ultimate well-being. Unlike medical antibiotics which can be toxic to a cat's liver and kidneys, trigger life-threatening allergies and kill their digestive flora, herbal antibiotics have no harmful side effects.Three powerful, safe and effective herbal antibiotics for cats are echinacea, chaparral and goldenseal.

  1. Echinacea

    • Echinacea helps boost the cat's immune system and is used primarily for respiratory infections, especially for fighting strep bacteria. Between 15 and 30 drops of tincture, twice a day is a standard dosage for cats. Considered the equivalent of using penicillin, echinacea should be limited to a maximum of two consecutive weeks. After a one-week rest period, a second two-week period can be administered if needed.

      Echinacea use should be avoided in cats with feline leukemia, feline immunodeficiency virus and cats with FIP (degenerative viral disease). It also lowers blood pressure and should never be given to hypoglycemic or diabetic cats.

    Chaparral

    • Chaparral is used externally and internally for cats as an antibiotic to fight parasites, viruses and bacteria. A poultice helps draw out toxins from the infected area and speeds up healing.

      Make a paste by mixing chaparral powder with warm water and place it on a gauze that will cover the affected area. Once in place, cover the gauze with a towel to keep the mixture from leaking out. To keep poultice warm, place a hot water bottle or heating pad on top for 30 to 45 minutes.

      Internally, chaparral tincture is the best alternative for animals, due to its strong taste. Administer four to six drops directly into the cat's mouth, and make sure there is clean water available for cleansing the cat's palate. Chaparral is not intended for long-term use.

    Goldenseal

    • Goldenseal is commonly used for feline leukemia and infectious peritonitis. It also works well with any infection of the cat's digestive system. Administer 10 to 20 drops, once a day until cat regains health.

      Except for when treating feline leukemia, goldenseal and echinacea are great allies at fighting viral and bacterial infections. Mix tinctures of both herbs in a small amount of water and feed to your cat slowly with a dropper. Adding the drops to water may not be a good idea, as the bitter taste of the goldenseal may deter the cat from drinking it.

    Proper Diagnosis

    • Sometimes cats suffer from extremely strong bacterias that need an abrasive and quick method of elimination, and herbal antibiotics do not work fast enough. In such cases, conventional antibiotics should be considered. An herbal recovery program may be used subsequently to restore the feline's digestive flora and emotional health.

    Warning

    • Always inform your veterinarian of any herbal supplements you give to your pet; the supplements may interact with additional medication prescribed.