Herbs are frequently used as components of integrative veterinary medicine. With few exceptions, medicinal herbs are generally recognized as safe for use in domestic cats. However, they should be used under the guidance of a qualified professional.
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Prevalence
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One of the most commonly used medicinal herbs for cats is catnip, which is used extensively as an anxiety treatment. Most cat owners will use this or another medicinal herb at some point during the pet's lifetime.
Scientific Studies
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Most clinical trials have investigated herbs' effects on rodents or humans. Unfortunately, there are few studies regarding the safety and efficacy of medicinal herbs for cats.
Common Herbs
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Couchgrass and nettle are commonly used as nutritional herbs for cats, while echinacea and goldenseal are used as immunostimulants. Medicinal fruits like cranberry and elderberry may be useful in combating urinary tract infections and viral infections.
Dangers
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Some herbs, including sage, are known to be toxic to cats and should not be used in any amount. White willow bark is a powerful anti-inflammatory; however, since it is also a blood thinner, it is best used under a veterinarian's guidance.
Preventing Problems
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Medicinal herbs should be used with extreme caution---if at all---in cats with diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease or immunocomprimising conditions like feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus.
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