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Aromatherapy for Animals, Part 3: Holistic Blends for Cats
By Francoise Rapp
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As a continuation of our series on
aromatherapy for animals, this article describes how to utilize
essential oils safely and effectively for the health of your
cat. For previous installations in this series, please review
our article archive at
http://www.aromalchemy.com/education/archives.html.
Many French aromathispists, including Nelly Grosjean, have
researched and published their findings about how to safely use
essential oils with animals. I have personally experienced great
healing results using essential oils for my own cat, as well as
with other animals.
Essential oils are not harmful for anyone as long as you know
how and which ones to use. When using aromatherapy for your dog,
cat or other animals, only use a minute amount of the
recommended oils and do not use them directly on the skin.
For further information on using aromatherapy blends safely with
your animals, please read: "Nelly Grosjean - Veterinarian
Aromatherapy," available at both Amazon.com and
BarnesAndNoble.com.
Cats are inherintly instinctive, independent and agile
creatures. They are notorius for chasing almost anything and
eating mice, birds and other small animals. Cats also love
roaming and playing, and often fight to protect their territory.
Urban cats and country cats are quite different. Country cats
are generally tough while city kitties tend to show more
weakness in their immune, pulmonary and digestive systems.
Appropriate food choices according to their environment plays a
major role in the well-being of diverse cats.
A third category, indoor cats, has specific needs as well.
Indoor cats often live comfortably and don't have the
opportunity to experience the fun and frolic of the outdoors.
Owners of indoor cats should pay close attention to providing a
healthy diet and playing with their feline friend as often as
possible to help him get in touch with his natural state.
Here are few tips veterinarians often suggest to keep your dear
friend healthy:
* Do not overfeed your cat with "people" food, such as milk,
cheese, etc. Invest in a quality brand and pay close attention
to the ingredients. Preferably go to a pet store to find the
highest quality food.
* Do not feed your cat only canned food. Canned food alone
causes fatigue and does not provide a sufficient amount of
nutrients. Most vets will recommend a diet of both canned and
dry food.
* If you own an outdoor cat, allow him or her to hunt. Cats
truly enjoy this experience and it is an excellent source for
exercise as well.
* Always provide your cat with lots of attention and love. Set
aside time to play and cuddle with the special kitty in your
life.
* Brush your cat once a week with a brush designed specially for
your cat's size and fur type. This disperses the furs natural
oil and creates shine.
* If your cat has dandruff be sure to shampoo him every few
months with an unscented baby shampoo and/or visit a
professional.
* If you own an indoor cat, be sure to manicure his claws on a
regular basis.
* Mineral supplements are wonderful for cats. You can find
cat-specific supplements in natural food or pet stores. Be sure
to always follow the advice of your veterinarian.
* Keep your cat comfy with his own soft and warm "cat bed."
* For a healthful and lengthy life, always keep up with
vaccinations.
The following holistic aromatherapy recipes will complete your
cat's healthy living regime. Please note, you should NOT spray
directly on the cat, but rather a bit on his bed or around the
cat in order to create a fine mist. Just one time spray is
enough. Be sure to follow the specific use instructions listed
immediately after the ingredients for each blend.
******** Deter Household Fleas ******** 15 drops of Peppermint
Pour the essential oil into a 30 ml spritzer bottle filled with
water. Spray the bed and all other infected areas.
* Use a special flea treatment recommended by your veterinary to
treat your cat himself.
******** Control Cat Odor ******** -10 ml of Lemon -5ml of
Lavender -5ml of Pine
Pour the essential oils into a 30 ml spritzer filled with water.
Spray around the house regularly and on infected areas. This
blend works especially well for urine odor.
******** Ease Coughs, Coriza, Typhus ******** -5 ml of
Eucalyptus -5 ml of Pine -1 ml of Tea Tree
Pour the essential oils into a 30 ml spritzer filled with water.
Gently spray your cat and then around the apartment or house.
The therapeutic mist will help strengthen your cat's immune
system, heal existing ailments and purify the air.
******** Combat Lethargy ******** -4 drops of Rosemary -5 drops
of Lavender
Pour the essential oils into a 10 ml bottle and then add organic
vegetable oil to fill. Anoint the spine of your cat and then
pour a few drops into the palm of your hands. Place your hand
under your cat's nose and allow him to breathe in the aroma.
To order what you need to create these blends yourself, visit
http://www.aromalchemy.com/aromatherapy/ouroils.html
To order these aromatic blends ready-to-use and have them
delivered to your doorstep, visit
http://www.aromalchemy.com/aromatherapy/featured.html
To order your "Aromatherapy for Animals Starter's Kit" visit
http://aromalchemy.com/aromatherapy/starterskits.html
In Good Health, Francoise Rapp www.aromalchemy.com
(c) Francoise Rapp, 2002.
About the author:
Internationally renowned aromatherapist and alchemist Françoise
Rapp shares her expertise each week in her free ezine, the
Arom'Alchemy Newsletter. To subscribe, visit
www.aromalchemy.com/education.
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