Natural Cat Health Remedies

Cats make adorable pets and usually require little extra care to live long, healthy lives. By using natural health remedies for your cat, you can help her stay in top shape. However, since your cat may still suffer exposure to a feline disease or condition, it's imperative that she receives regular veterinarian checkups and the immunizations required in your community. "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies for Dogs and Cats," published by the editors of Prevention Magazine, offers some tips for natural cat health care.

Your cat's eyes allow her to distinguish shapes and movements, even in dim lighting situations. They should appear clear and sparkly most of the time. Allergies or an irritation may make her eyes red or swollen, or she may have slight discharge. A gentle eyewash solution can be made by dissolving 1/2 tsp. sea salt into 1 cup warm water. Dip a cotton ball into the solution and gently wipe your cat's eye area to remove dried matter.

Look closely at your cat's ears, peering into the ear canal as far as you can. A healthy ear will be light pink inside and have little or no discharge. If your cat shakes his head repeatedly or scratches at his ears, he may have an ear infection. A disagreeable odor signifies the presence of a problem that should be treated by a veterinarian. Cats may acquire ear mites that create intense itching. Combine one crushed garlic clove in 1/4 cup olive oil and let it stand for three days. Strain the mixture, and put one or two drops into your cat's ears to send ear mites packing.

Most cats have no problems eating their food until their later years. Your cat's mouth should be pink, and her gums should be tight and smooth. If your cat loses a tooth, or is having trouble eating hard cat food, make her food by combining cooked brown rice with cottage cheese, a little bit of cooked meat and a diced, hard-boiled egg. It's healthier than canned cat food, and you can freeze individual portions. Check your cat's mouth if she refuses to eat. Often a sore in the mouth or a lodged bone will make it uncomfortable for a cat to chew.

Your cat's ribs should have a nice layer of skin, but her health is at risk if she's overweight. Run your hands down either side of her spine. If you can feel the rib bones but they are not visible, your cat is probably at a healthy weight. If your cat is overweight, decrease her meal portions and encourage her to exercise by playing with her or by providing soft cat toys and a scratch pole.

Whether your cat has long fur or short fur, her coat should be smooth and lustrous. Squeeze a fish oil capsule over her food once a week to help provide a shiny coat. Brush her as often as possible to prevent mats from occurring. If your cat develops a mat, sprinkle it with a little dry cornstarch to encourage the hairs to untangle. If the mat is large, use a mat-cutting tool to remove it. Consider shearing your cat's coat to make her more comfortable, at least in the areas prone to matting, usually under her arms and beneath her ears.

While cats enjoy playing outside occasionally, indoor cats live longer lives. Some cat owners accomplish both by installing a cat door, allowing their cat to go out when she likes, but also providing a quick method for her to reenter the house. Even with the best natural home care, your cat should see her veterinarian to get her annual vaccinations and a checkup.