Holistic Treatments for Feline Renal or Kidney Failure

Natural Treatments for Cats with Chronic Kidney Failure

Acupressure, herbs, homeopathy, flower essence therapies, diet and nutritional supplements, will in many cases, be an invaluable adjunct to conventional veterinary care.

Acupressure and Chinese Medicine for Feline Kidney Failure

The kidneys act like roots of a plant, carrying water and nutrients into the body and filtering toxins out. They aid the lungs in extracting moisture from the air and the spleen and pancreas in extracting moisture from food.

The kidneys help the body develop and mature. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is the kidney that gives us our skeletal framework and it is said to rule the bones.

Once the bones are formed, they undergo constant remodeling through out life. The kidney directs the bone marrow and the outer layer of bone called the cortex. If an animal's kidneys are weak at birth, it is usually born the runt of the litter. It may have malformed bones or destined to develop dental problems, arthritis or hip dysplasia.

The sense organ affiliated with the kidney is the ear. Animals with kidney problems often develop sensitivity to noise. They may hide in the closet or under the bed or bolt and run if they are scared. Deficiency in the kidneys will affect an animals disposition, leading to increased fears and insecurities.

The negative emotional association with the kidney is fear. Fear wears down the lubrication mechanism of the body. Think "sweating bullets" or "being scared sh@#less" or animals who urinate when they are frightened. Fear is related to the kidney and the water element.

THE KIDNEY YIN (It's job is to cool the body)

A kidney yin deficiency causes dryness and heat from lack of fluids. In TCM, Yin is what maintains and endures, it is nourishing and supports growth and development. The kidney yin regulates the body's warmth and prevents overheating. Yin fluids moisten, calm and cool. The yin of the kidney is responsible for what it takes to process urine. Its traits are: Cold, coldness and moisture and it is most active during the summer.

The kidney yin helps your pets mouth remain moist and wet with saliva, it moistens the stool, and keeps urine forming in the bladder. This means that if your pet has symptoms such as a dry mouth and increased thirst, constipation and dry stools, or dry skin developing into flaky dandruff, red spots and itching these are signs of kidney yin deficiency. A dry kidney may cause a dry cough to develop because it can take moisture away from the lungs. If there is lack of fluid to fill the bladder, the concentrated urine can burn and irritate the urinary tract, causing the animal to cry out and strain or even have blood-tinged urine and frequent bladder infections.

Your Cat's Thermo-Regulator

The cat's kidneys act like a cooling system because they regulate and moderate body temperature and prevent overheating. A pet that heats up easily is having problems with the yin cooling system of its body. If an animal starts panting when the temperature rises above 65 degrees F. or seeks cool floors over carpeting or shade on a pleasant day, these may be signals for you to suspect kidney problems.  

Further indications of a yin deficiency may include a small rapid pulse because there isn't enough fluid in the body to fill the arteries and a red tongue because there isn't enough fluid to keep the tongue pink and moist.

HOLISTIC TREATMENTS FOR KIDNEY YIN DEFICIENCY

The objective is to naturally restore the moisture in the kidneys and related organs. Early treatment strengthens the kidneys and helps prevent kidney failure in the future.

ACUPRESSURE FOR YIN DEFICIENCY

Depending on the severity of the symptoms, treatment can be done as frequently as necessary to strengthen the organs. 

POINT WORK

Kidney KI 3. This point strengthens Kidney yin and regulates its energy. It is useful in thirst, low-back pain and weakness, urinary tract infections with scanty urine, dry cough, constipation, dry, hot, itchy skin, heat and noise intolerance. 

Location: On the inside of each hind leg, just above the ankle (tarsus), at the midpoint between the Achilles tendon and the jutting of the ankle bone (medial malleolus). 

Point work: Hold the point for 30 seconds.

Spleen (SP) 6. This point will moisten and tone the blood and fluids, strengthen the yin and blood of the spleen, kidney and liver. It can be used for thirst, constipation, dry, hot, itchy skin, anemia, insecurity, heat and noise intolerance. 

Location: On the inside of the hind legs, just behind the tibia bone and below the beginning of the Achilles tendon that extends from the widest part of the muscle. 

Point work: Hold the point or rub up and down for 20 seconds, in the space between the Achilles tendon and the bone. 

Conception Vessel (CV) 12. This is the alarm point for the stomach. It is the joining place for the kidney, spleen and liver channels, which will aid all three systems. It will help the stomach work more smoothly with the spleen and pancreas. It is useful for vomiting and nervous indigestion.

Location: On the midline of the abdomen, halfway between the end of the sternum and the umbilicus (navel). 

Point work: Hold the point or use a short downward stroking motion, with light to medium pressure for 10 to 15 seconds.

HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS FOR KIDNEY YIN DEFICIENCY

Liu Wei Di Huang Wan. A classic Yin formula containing: Rehmannia to nourish the yin and the blood, Cornus to nourish the kidney and liver yin, Dioscorea for nourishing the qi, Hoelen to promote urination, Alisma to clear kidney fire and Mountan to clear heat in general. 

Dosage for Cats: 1 pill, twice daily. 

Alfalfa. A Western tonic herb for the blood, yin and qui. It will help to stimulate the appetite. It is useful for dry skin, hyperacidity of the stomach and developing ulcers. 

Dosage: 1/4 teaspoon, once or twice daily. Use the dried herb in a powder form and mix into food. 

Vitamin C (buffered): 125 mg. twice daily, given with a meal. NOTE: If there is ulceration in the stomach or a tendency to vomit, or the cat has diarrhea this vitamin may be contraindicated. 

Vitamin B Complex: 30 mg, 1 time daily, given with a meal. 

Vitamin E: 50 International Units (IU), given every other day. 

Enzymes from papaya to aid in digestion. Dose: 1/3 the human dose, daily. 

Kelp or other seaweed powder. Dosage for cats: 1/8 teaspoon daily mixed into food.

If muscle spasms develop, add a potassium supplement, such as Potassium Chloride. Dose: 1/6 teaspoon, daily, mixed with food. 

DIET RECOMMENDATIONS FOR YIN DEFICIENCY

A kidney yin deficiency causes dryness and heat from lack of fluids. So, you will want to use foods that will cool, moisten and calm the animal. Yin foods are usually vegetables and grains, with meat protein being more warming, but providing yin substance. Use grains such as millet and organic brown rice. Peas and kidney beans are associated with the kidney. Vegetables such as sweet potatoes, spinach, asparagus, beets, low fat dairy (goat yogurt), Celery juice is very nourishing and cooling to the kidneys, Animal proteins would include, pork, rabbit, eggs, fish such as sardine, clam, cod or mackerel. Avoid warming foods like salmon, chicken, or lamb.

THE KIDNEY YANG (It's job is to warm the body)

In TCM, the yang of the kidney helps WARM the inner parts of the body and it is most active in the winter.

If the body is YANG DEFICIENT it allows COLD to go right to the core of the body and the bones. Yang helps to stimulate the digestive juices of the stomach, spleen and pancreas and the energy of the lungs. If heat doesn't reach the lungs water can accumulate in the chest or the abdomen causing congested, moist breathing. In this state the accumulation of moisture in the abdomen can cause abdominal bloating, vomiting, diarrhea and pain. The animal won't be thirsty because there is too much water being held in the system. The pet will feel cold all the time and want to be covered or close to a heat source.

Overall stagnation and sluggishness will affect the activity of the entire system, including the skeletal system. The bones in the lower back and legs are extremely vulnerable to weak kidney yang. If the yang of the kidney is not active, the fluid in the bone marrow and around the joints may stagnate and only a few areas will be lubricated, which can result in disc problems, bone spurs and arthritis. The areas of stagnation will be painful and unnaturally calcified.

Lack of kidney yang will decrease sexual desire in both males and females. Hormones in general, including those from the adrenal glands and thyroid are affected by the kidney yang. It can also lead to urine dribbling and incontinence which will worsen on rainy days, during cold weather and at night. Because of the lack of yang, the urinary tract is cold which makes the animal unable to concentrate urine adequately, causing frequent urination. 

HOLISTIC TREATMENTS FOR KIDNEY YANG DISORDERS

The kidney yang is always involved in the later stages of kidney disease. Treatment is focused on warming the kidneys and preventing possible kidney failure later.

POINTS THAT RESPOND WELL 

POINT WORK

Stomach (ST) 36. Master Point for the abdomen and gastrointestinal tract. Improves overall strength, health and resistance to disease. Tonifies Chi. Clears and strengthens the mind. Relieves fatigue. Stimulation of this point benefits digestion and helps restore the immune system. Relieves urinary problems. NOTE: Do not use during pregnancy it may cause contractions. Point work: Hold the point for 15 to 30 seconds. 

Spleen (SP) 6. Relieves fatigue or weakness. Good point for gastrointestinal disorders such as chronic diarrhea. Regulates the circulatory and urinary systems. Helps relieve pelvic limb problems. Regulates skin and joints, calms the mind. NOTE: Do not use during pregnancy, stimulation can promote labor contractions. Point work: Hold the point for 20 seconds. 

Governing Vessel (GV) 4. Relieves intestinal problems and strengthens the urogenital system. Strengthens the lower back and spine. Point work: Hold the point or use a circular motion for 20 seconds.

MERIDIANS THAT RESPOND WELL TO TREATMENT

The Bladder Meridian transforms fluid through storage and excretion. The Bladder Meridian has the unique capability of balancing the entire meridian system. The association points along the Bladder Meridian correspond directly with each of the twelve major meridians. The lower channel of the BM addresses fear, depression, grief and agitation. It responds very well to Moxa treatment. Location: It begins on a point at the inside of the eye (avoid this area in moxa work it is too sensitive). Begin moxa treatment at the shoulders. Then follow the two branches that follow parallel to each side of the spine and flow down the back toward the tail, then continue down the outside aspect of the hind legs.

The Conception Vessel Meridian absorbs overflow of energy from one meridian and redirects it to deficient meridians, and balances the energy throughout the body by moving the chi while it regulates the storage and distribution of Jing throughout the body. Location: The meridian travels the full length of the ventral midline on the cat's body. The meridian begins at the anus and runs between the hind legs, through the genitals and umbilicus (navel), continuing along the midline of the abdomen and through the chest. It goes up the midline of the neck and ends at the lower lip. Your moxa work will comprise the midsection of the meridian.

ACUPRESSURE POINTS FOR YANG DISORDERS

The treatment focuses on warming the kidneys and to prevent possible kidney failure, as both the kidney yin and yang are involved in the later stages of kidney disease. 

POINT WORK

Governing Vessel (GV 4). This point warms the kidney yang and activates circulation along the spine. It can be used in weakness of the hind legs, stiffness in the legs, urine dribbling and incontinence due to kidney yang deficiency. It it one of the main warming points of the body and is used to relieve cold. 

Location: On the midline of the back between the second and third lumbar vertebrae.

Point work: Use mild finger pressure, in a short back and forth motion over the point. 

Urinary Bladder (BL) 23. This is the association point of the kidney and is used to balance the organ. Use it to warm the kidney. It will aid in incontinence, bladder straining, scanty, frequent amounts of urine and weakness and stiffness in the rear legs. 

Location: In the depressions in the muscle on both sides of the spine, between the second and third lumbar vertebrae. 

Point work: Use your finger do a circular motion outward from the spine or a gentle, rocking, back and forth motion into the point. 

Stomach (ST) 36 This point boosts qi in the lower portion of the body. Qi helps the yang and is useful in digestive disorders, abdominal bloating and coldness. 

Location: The point is in the middle of the muscle, on the outside of the hind leg. Right below the knee, outside of the main leg bone (the tibia). 

Point work: Use steady pressure or a circular motion for 20 seconds. 

Conception Vessel (CV) 4. This point will help to stabilize the kidney, regulate the qi and restore the yang of the kidneys. It is helpful for incontinence, diarrhea and a weak urine stream. It can also aid in irregular ovarian cycles, infertility, loss of libido and low sperm counts. 

Location: On the midline of the lower abdomen. Visualize a line connecting the umbilicus (navel) and the pelvis. The point is about two thirds of the way down from the umbilicus. 

Point work: Use small circular motions or hold the point for 15 seconds. To enhance the treatment, gently massage the lower half of the abdomen using upward strokes from the pelvic bone to the umbilicus (navel). This will direct the flow of yang and qi upward. 

CHINESE HERBS FOR KIDNEY YANG DISORDERS

Golden Book Tea. This is a kidney yin formulation, of Liu Wei Di Huang Wan contains: Rehmannia to nourish the yin and the blood, Cornus to nourish the kidney and liver yin, Dioscorea for nourishing the qi, Hoelen to promote urination, Alisma to clear kidney fire and Mountan to clear heat in general, Cinnamon and a nontoxic form of Aconite, to warm the kidney. It is prescribed for sexual dysfunctions, also for frequent, copious urination that is worse during cold weather and at night, low back pain and weak hind legs, abdominal distention and asthma that worsens during cold weather.

This formula nourishes blood, liver and spleen, will help promote urination, it is useful in thirst, constipation, low-back pain, hot, itchy feet, face and skin, weight loss, insecurity and agitation. 

Dosage for Cats: 1 pill, twice daily, given with food. 

Wild Carrot. The flowers and upper parts of the plant are used for urinary problems, while the root aids in restoring the sexual organs. 

Dosage for Cats: Using tincture, mix 5 to 10 drops in 1 ounce of distilled water. Suggested Dose: 1 dropperful, once or twice daily. NOTE: This herb should not be given to pregnant animals because it can stimulate uterine contractions. 

SUPPLEMENTS TO STRENGTHEN KIDNEY YANG 

NOTE: If you are using vitamins B or buffered C, remember this is a cold condition and these vitamins may increase the tendency to coldness and diarrhea. If there is ulceration in the stomach or a tendency to vomit, vitamin C may not be tolerated well. If you do use them they should be given in lower doses than what would be normally prescribed for a yin deficiency (see above). 

DIET RECOMMENDATIONS

Warming and neutral foods will help nourish the spleen/pancreas and help to balance and warm the kidney yang. Choose grains such as oats, barley, organic brown rice or basmati rice (for better digestion, when cooking rice add more water, meat or vegetable broth than the directions call for, by 1/4  to 1/2 cup, and cook it for a longer period). Choose vegetables (steamed) such as carrots, squash, kale and green beans. For animal protein, use chicken, wild salmon, liver, lamb or rabbit. 

NATURAL TREATMENTS FOR FELINE RENAL FAILURE 

NOTE: When the cat no longer drinks or urinates, the situation is critical because the kidneys have shut down and toxins are building up, poisoning the body. A cat in acute renal failure MUST be under the care of a veterinarian. 

FLUID THERAPY

General support for cats in kidney failure includes proper food, supplements, and regular administration of fluid therapy. Fluid therapy in this situation is not related to dehydration of the cat; rather it is a way to maintain good blood circulation so the body tissues are well nourished. It also helps to remove body toxins by increasing blood flow to the kidneys and by increasing the excreted urine. It does not matter that your cat is 'not' dehydrated. The fluid therapy is essential. Your success in treatment depends to a great degree upon utilization of this therapy. There are some guidelines for home use and some veterinarians may express discomfort with home administration of fluids and teaching this aspect of home care.

The fluids are designed to be given intravenously (by direct injection into the veins), but veterinarians commonly use them subcutaneously (injected under the skin). This is really easy to do, and it works best if the pet owner learns how to do it, so it can be done regularly at home. This saves frequent trips to the veterinary clinic which can become too stressful. Your veterinarian will need to show you how to give the fluids. It is not difficult, but it does take a little practice. It will be one of the most valuable things you will learn and it is too valuable to ignore. If your vet will not assist you, then ask him/her for a referral to someone who will help. You will also need to get the fluids through your veterinarian (some pharmacies stock fluids and are less expensive, but you will need a prescription).

Most often fluids are given daily or every other day, although the frequency may vary from once a week to twice a day depending on the cats condition. 

The volume of fluids to be given is approximately 100 milliliters (100cc) per cat. This is usually adequate (some veterinarians recommend more, but I rarely find more to be helpful). I have a better response by adjusting frequency rather than volume to regulate the dosage. 

It is crucial that the fluids be warmed prior to administration. Cats in kidney failure are almost always cold and cool fluids will sap their body heat and vital force even further, even if the fluids are at room temperature. Additionally, cats dislike the cold fluids and will associate the procedure with discomfort! Unfortunately, many veterinarians do not warm the fluids first. If you take your cat in for subcutaneous fluid therapy, insist that the bag of fluids be placed into warm water for about ten to fifteen minutes prior to use. Additionally, the tubing that carries the fluid to the needle can be put in a bowl of warm water, as the fluids may cool off during transit through an unheated tube.

Usually, fluids are administered daily (occasionally twice daily) until the cat improves, then taper the frequency to the amount needed to maintain good energy and appetite. In early stages this may be once a week; as the disease worsens it may be needed once or twice a day. Most cats learn to tolerate the fluid therapy very well. Warm fluids feel good to a cold cat, and a tasty treat afterward helps make the association even more enticing. Many cat owners observe that their feline companions seem to learn that they feel so much better after the fluids are given that they actually want to cooperate. 

ACUPRESSURE TREATMENT FOR CHRONIC KIDNEY FAILURE

During renal failure, the spleen/pancreas controls the kidneys, and at this stage the spleen is out of control. It must be rebalanced by sedating certain points. The lungs support the kidneys, so specific points have been added to strengthen the lungs so that, the kidneys will also be strengthened. 

NOTE: The following 4 points are used together as a sole treatment, twice a week, to strengthen the kidneys. After eight sessions, other points can be incorporated from those listed for both kidney yin and yang deficiencies.

POINT WORK

Spleen (SP) 3. This point is traditionally used for constipation or diarrhea and abdominal distention. It is also the source point of the spleen meridian. 

Location: On the lower portion of the inside of the hind paw, midway between the ankle and the toes. 

Point work: Use a downward brushing motion along the inside of the hind paw. 

Kidney (KI) 3. This is the source point for the kidney, used for thirst, overheating and vomiting. 

Location: You will find this point on the inside of each hind leg, just above the ankle (tarsus), at the midpoint between the Achilles tendon the jutting of the ankle bone (medial malleolus). 

Point work: Hold the point for 15 to 30 seconds. 

Kidney (KI) 7. This point strengthens the relationship between the lungs and the kidneys, thereby strengthening the kidney. It is used for bladder infections, abdominal distention, back pain, weak legs and excess heat because it regulates the kidney qi. 

Location: On the inside of the hind leg, on the border of the Achilles tendon, just below where the muscle bellies end and the tendon begins. 

Point work: Hold the point for 15 to 20 seconds. 

Lung (LU) 8. This point is used for bronchitis, asthma and breathing problems. It can also help decrease thirst and it is a strengthening point for the lung fluid. 

Location: On the underside of the wrist of the front leg. Flex he paw. The point is on the wrist crease at the inside margin of the long bone, the radius. 

Point: Use a small circular motion for 20 seconds. 

ACU-POINTS FOR KIDNEY DISEASE WITH VOMITING

POINT WORK

Conception Vessel (CV) 12. This is the alarm point of the stomach. It helps to calm the stomach and is used to help stop vomiting and nausea. With light to medium pressure, hold the point or use short downward strokes (in the direction of the tail) for 15 to 20 seconds. 

Stomach (ST) 36. Stimulation of this point relieves urinary problems, benefits digestion and helps restore the immune system. Use steady pressure or a circular motion for 20 seconds. 

Urinary Bladder (BL) 20.  This is a Spleen Association Point. It tonifies the spleen and stomach and nourishes the blood. Reinforces in all chronic diseases and energy depletion. Use steady pressure or a circular motion for 20 seconds. 

Herbal Treatment: Chamomile. This Western herb cools and calms the stomach and can be used in conditions affecting the stomach and the kidney resulting in vomiting of food or bile. Make a strong tea by pouring 1 cup of boiling water over 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of flowers. Cover and steep for 30 minutes. Strain and cool. Dosage for cats: 10 drops, once or twice daily.

ACU-POINTS TO STIMULATE THE APPETITE

POINT WORK

Stomach (ST) 36. This point relieves urinary problems, benefits digestion and helps restore the immune system. Use steady pressure or a circular motion for 20 seconds. 

Kidney (KI) 3. Helps restore the immune system and strengthens the kidney. It is found on the inside of each leg. Hold the point for 15 to 30 seconds. 

Herbal Treatment: Alfalfa. This Western herb can be used to stimulate the appetite. Dosage for cats: 1/4 teaspoon of powdered herb, once or twice daily, mixed with food or a treat such as yogurt or cream. 

RENAL DIET RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CATS

Protein requirements for animals with kidney disease are generally poorly understood. It is commonly thought that when there is any evidence of kidney disease, the protein level should be reduced. This is not correct for most animals. Protein reduction has little impact upon the progression of kidney disease. In fact, reducing the protein level in the dog or cat's diet may reduce the effectiveness of the kidneys. This is because the amount of blood filtered through the kidneys (the glomerular filtration rate) is tied to protein in the diet, and reducing the protein reduces the filtering, thus decreasing the excretion of toxins.

Some of the toxins that the kidneys excrete (like the BUN) are a by-product of protein metabolism, so the body steps up filtration as protein increases; this improves filtration of all toxins. Normally, this compensates for the increased protein intake. ONLY when the kidney function has reduced beyond a certain level is this inadequate. 

Cats with kidney disease should be on a moist food diet (NO dry food what so ever). The cat should be on a high quality protein diet. Reduction in protein is only necessary when the kidney function has diminished to the point that toxins build to a level that affects health. Even then it is only to minimize a symptom of kidney disease, not to minimize the impact upon the kidneys. When the body cannot properly eliminate the protein by-products, these may cause nausea, mouth ulcers, poor appetite, and so on. Reducing the protein and improving the quality of the protein will then lessen the toxicity. 

When should the protein level be reduced? Essentially, only reduce protein when its toxic by-products cause illness, and this varies from animal to animal. Practically, there are some guidelines according to blood testing. Protein should not be reduced until the BUN reaches about 80 mg/dl, the creatinine reaches 2.5 mg/dl, and/or serum phosphate levels increase. NOTE: The vets testing should be done when the animal is well hydrated, as dehydration can falsely elevate these values in the test.

In early stages of kidney disease, good results good results can be obtained using high quality protein and extra fat and carbohydrates. High-quality protein sources include eggs, cottage cheese, goat milk, yogurt and ghee (see recipe below). Meats are of lesser quality, but turkey and chicken are somewhat better than red meats. These food sources provide proteins that are easy to digest and break down completely with few by-products and relatively little waste for the kidneys to process. If the diet is low on calories from carbohydrates and fats, there will be a lot of work for the kidneys so make sure to include a good fat and calorie source (See Ghee- Recipe Below). 

HOW TO MAKE GHEE (Indian-style clarified butter)

You can make ghee by taking unsalted butter and boiling it over low to medium heat until the water portion evaporates and the milk solids settle out. This takes about ten to fifteen minutes. The butter will foam once after a few minutes, then the foam will subside. It will foam again late in the process, at which time the settled milk solids will turn a golden brown. Remove from heat immediately and allow to cool. Strain through cheesecloth or a strainer into a jar, but don't get any of the milk solids into the jar. This will keep in the refrigerator for a few months, and it can be frozen for long-term storage.

DRINKING WATER
If you can obtain distilled water from a reputable company - that should be the cats only form of drinking water. It will put far less stress on the kidneys. If you can't find good quality distilled water in your area, look for reverse osmosis filtered water or the best filtered, bottled water you can find and use it instead.

NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS

Since the kidneys depend upon the bicarbonate ion for part of their function, the addition of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) to the food may help many animals. Excessive urine flow washes the bicarbonate ions out of the kidney tissue and the baking soda replenishes the ions. Dose: Just a pinch in the food daily is enough for a cat.

Co-Q 10, will aid in oxygenation, increases energy, aids breathing, lowers blood pressure and eliminates toxins. Dose: 10 mg daily. 

Cod Liver Oil supplies vitamin A and D which are necessary to help bone remodeling. Dose: 1/4 teaspoon daily.

Calcium is important as the serum phosphorus level tends to be high and calcium binds some of the phosphorus. Be sure the diet has adequate calcium, but don't add too much. 

NOTE: If you decide to choose one of the home prepared renal diets for your cat, follow the recipe, and don't use bone meal as a calcium supplement (with kidney failure) because there is phosphorus in bone meal. 

NOTE: You may also choose supplements from those listed under Yin Deficiency (above). 

WESTERN HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Alfalfa, nettles, and dandelion are especially good for the kidneys. Make a tea from one or more of these herbs and give about one-half dropperful per ten pounds of the cats weight, three times daily. 

Bee pollen, royal jelly, and ghee (Indian-style clarified butter) help nourish the stored kidney energy according to Ayurvedic medicine. Use just a pinch of the bee products and about one-fourth teaspoon daily of the ghee. The ghee will provide the extra fat for calories (very important). If you can purchase ghee at a health food store in your area, be sure it is fresh as it can go rancid on the shelf. 

CHINESE HERBS

If there is no vomiting, the basic kidney formula Liu Wei Di Huang Wan can be used. Dose: 1 pill, twice daily, given with food. 

Chih Pai Di Huang Wan can be used if there is extreme thirst, insomnia, high blood pressure, hot skin, including the paws, and nervous irritability. The herbs in this formula will aid in clearing false heat. Dose: 1 pill, twice daily, given with food. 

HOMEOPATHY AND CHRONIC KIDNEY FAILURE

To help maintain kidney function choose 'one' of the following homeopathic remedies (that best fits your cat's symptom picture). Dose according to the guide on Side 2 of Pet Remedy Charts, Homeopathy to the Rescue for Cats. If you do not have the chart use the dosing schedule here: How to Dose Homeopathic Remedies for Pets. 

Arsenicum album 30c

Arsenicum proves its vast application once again by its usefulness in kidney disease. The thirst and chilliness of kidney failure are key notes of the Arsenicum picture. These patients will usually be restless as well, and worse after midnight. Cats needing Arsenicum often hang their heads over the water bowl without drinking. They are thirsty, but drinking probably creates nausea. These animals also show a similar relationship to eating. They act hungry but eat very little. They seek out warm places because they feel chilled and cold. 

Mercuris (vivus or solubilis) 30c
Mercurius may benefit many animals when the disease has progressed to the point that mouth inflammation accompanies their other symptoms. There may be ulcers on the gums that cause so much discomfort that the cat can not eat. These animals are often irritable and may desire to be left alone. 

Natrum muriaticum 30c
This remedy is another good remedy for animals with kidney failure. According to the "like-cures-like principle Natrum mur. is very useful for thirsty animals such as those with kidney failure. These patients are more likely to be warm than cool, and they will avoid heat or the sun. They also tend to want to be left alone rather than wanting to be petted or receive other attention. They may also be constipated and have dry hard stools. 

Sulphur 30c
As the greatest of polychrest remedies, Sulphur can benefit many situations. It is a good remedy to consider for kidney failure if the animal is sluggish and very unkempt looking with a greasy appearance. These types generally care little about grooming, so they put very little effort into it. This is a very striking key note for the use of this remedy in cats because they are usually very fastidious in cleaning themselves. While sulphur patients are generally warm, those in kidney failure are often cold, so don't rule sulphur out if your cat seeks heat. He may not be as chilly as a cat needing Arsenicum (who will hug up to a heat vent), but he may avoid cold areas. These animals will be thirsty but often have poor appetites. They are usually friendly, relaxed, and easygoing. 

BACH FLOWER TREATMENTS

Flower Remedies treat negative emotions which make themselves noticeable in the form of physical symptoms. Flower essences work on the mental and emotional aspects of the cat.

Flower Remedies, are virtually non-toxic and not habit forming and can be safely used to enhance or compliment any other holistic or conventional veterinary treatment. 

Disease/Critical: To cleanse the body, lift the spirits, give strength and restore the will to live. Olive, Crab Apple, Centaury, Gorse, Scleranthus and Rescue Remedy. 

Diarrhea: (to stop uncontrollable diarrhea) Cherry Plumb 

Fear: Unknown fears, phobias. Aspen. 

Unconscious - Coma: (to restore consciousness) Clematis or Rescue Remedy 

Urinary Tract Infection: Water Violet, Agrimony, Crab Apple and Olive. 

Vomiting: (to stop uncontrollable vomiting) Cherry Plum 

Mixing The Remedy: Dilute the essence or essences by putting 2 drops of each chosen Flower Remedy into a 1 ounce dropper bottle of spring water. Rescue Remedy is used at double the dose of the other flowers — 4 drops into an ounce of spring water. It can be preserved by adding 1 teaspoon of either apple cider vinegar or food grade vegetable glycerine to the dilution bottle. If you don’t add a preservative keep it refrigerated. Avoid touching the dropper. 

Dosing The Diluted Remedy: For chronic illness give 4 drops, 4 times daily. During emergency first aid, 4 drops can be given every hour to every few minutes.You can place the essence directly in the cat’s mouth, add the drops to the pet’s food or water bowl or rub it on the inside of the cat’s ears or over the lips and nose. Treatment should be continued until the animal's symptoms are completely gone. If the symptoms return you can start dosing again.

To learn more about holistic treatments and natural healing strategies for cats, be sure to visit Pet Remedy Charts the ultimate guide to using herbs, homeopathy, flower remedies and acupressure in home pet health care.

Natural Treatments for Gallstones

What Causes Gallstones In Pets? 

Gallstones (choleliths) are hard, stone-like lumps of cholesterol, from excess bilirubin or bile salts in the bile. When there is too much cholesterol in gallbladder bile, the  stone that forms is called a cholesterol stone. When there is too much bilirubin in the gallbladder bile, the stone formed is called a pigment stone.

Eighty percent of gallstones are hardened lumps of cholesterol. These stones are generally yellowish-green in color. Pigment stones are darker in color. Their size can range from a tiny grain of sand to large as a marble.

Bile is made in the liver and stored in the gallbladder, people and animals who have gallstones develop real problems when a stone tries to move through a duct and is too large pass. This obstruction can cause inflammation, infection and damage to the duct itself. Symptoms include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting,  jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of eyes) and a persistent, sharp pain. Emergency surgical intervention may be emanate. Untreated or long lasting gallstone problems can be fatal.

In the long run prevention is the best bet! Enough can't be said for adjusting the diet to a better one. And early detection may allow you to nip it in the bud. By addressing the early symptoms, before they turn into chronic issues, you have a better chance of balancing the system and treating things while they are still manageable. This strategy more often than not can help you avoid the disease all together.

Vitamin E Treatment for Gallstones

When hamsters were given a diet deficient in vitamin E, all developed cholesterol gallstones. When the vitamin was given again, the stones dissolved. Animals given large amounts of cholesterol or saturated or unsaturated fats developed no gallstone as long as vitamin E was adequate.

Homeopathy for Gallstones in Pets

Homeopathy can be helpful in treating chronic gallstone problems. However, the remedies listed below are not recommendations for home or self-treatment, but as educational information about homeopathy and its use in potential gallstone treatments. It is important to remember that each patient presents unique symptoms and homeopathy is aimed at addressing the individual. So gallstone treatments may vary considerably between different animals or people.

Chionanthus (used for dissolving gallstones)

Calcarea carbonica (for the treatment of exhaustion and sensitivity/pains in upper abdomen)

Belladonna (dilates the cystic duct and alleviates pain)

Berberis vulgaris (for the treatment of pain, joint pain and constipation)

Bryonia (for the treatment of abdominal tenderness, nausea, pain)

Borax (used to dissolve gallstones)

Carbo Veg (for nausea and vomiting)

Cardus Marians (for treatment of an enlarged liver)

Chelidonium majus (for the treatment of nausea, pain and fatigue)

China (gastro-duodenal catarrh)

Cholestrinum, Fel tauri (increases duodenal secretions)

Hydrastis (reduces inflammation)

Lycopodium (for the treatment of bloating and digestive problems and cravings for sweets)

Nat Sulph (for indigestion)

Pulsatilla (anti-inflammatory and amoebia)

Mag phos (reduces spasms)

Colocynthis (for the treatment of cramping)

Dioscorea (for the treatment of flatulence and sudden, shifting pains)

Podophyllum (for treatment of constipation and diaherrea)

Nux vomica (for the treatment of nausea and digestive cramps)

Terebinthinum (distension of abdomen and diarrhea)
 
To learn more about holistic treatments and natural healing strategies for pets, be sure to visit Pet Remedy Charts the ultimate guide to using herbs, homeopathy, flower remedies and acupressure in home pet health care. Click Here learn more about homeopathic treatments for pets. 

Nutritional Therapies for Dogs and Cats

Guidelines to Giving Supplements

to Dogs and Cats

Can nutrients be used like medicine? Yes. They can play a major roll in the treatment of various disease conditions in dogs and cats. Nutrients are a natural part of the cellular environment. The use of nutrients as part of a therapeutic program for promoting healing and regeneration can help speed up and strengthen the healing response.

The nutrient and supplement list below is not necessarily complete for a given condition. The list is meant to be a general guideline and therefore should be changed or modified based on the assessment of individual cases. The actual dose range suggestions are presented only as a general guide. Actual daily dose depends on species variation, weight, age, physiologic state, and other dietary considerations. The doses given below are for educational purposes and are written in daily amounts. The amount used should be 'divided' and given in smaller portions, 2 or 3 times, as separate doses throughout the day.

Geriatric dog or cat

Supplement: B complex; B1, B2, B6 (5-30 mg), Folic acid, B12 (10-100) Vitamin C (25-4000 mg), Vitamin E (50-200 IU), Coenzyme Q10 (20-100 mg), Primrose oil (500-200 mg), Fish oil (250-1000), Digestive enzymes (4-160 mg), Dimethylglycine (24-100 mg), Zinc (1-15 mg).

Allergic dermatitis; atopy
Supplement: Vitamin C (500-600 mg), Digestive enzymes (4-160 mg), Primrose oil (1000-3000 mg), Fish oil (500-1500 mg), Proanthocyanidin complex (10-200 mg), Vitamin E (50-400 IU), Dimethylglycine (50-250 mg), Vitamin A (500-10,000 IU).

Canine degenerative joint disease; disk and spinal disorders
Supplement: Perna mussel (300-1500 mg), Glucosamine sulfate (250-1500 mg), Bovine tracheal cartilage 500-2000 mg), Vitamin C (500-6000 mg), Sulfated minerals: Manganese (2-15 mg), Magnesium (24-300 mg), Zinc (5-30 mg). Silicon (2-10 mg), Vitamin B6 (5-60 mg).

Canine heartworm disease
Supplement: Coenzyme Q10 (20-150 mg), Vitamin C (500-6000 mg), Vitamin E (100-400 mg), Proanthocyanidin complex (10-200 mg), L-Carnitine (200-2000 mg).

Canine seizures
Supplement: Betaine HCI (100-300 mg), Dimethylglycine (50-500 mg), Taurine (200-1000 mg), Proanthocyanidin complex (10-200 mg).

Heart Disease

Cardiovascular disorders: Vitamin C (500-6000 mg)

Dilated cardiomyopathy: Vitamin E (50-400 IU)

Congestive heart failure: Coenzyme Q10 (20-100 mg)

Myocarditis: L-Carnitine (500-1000 mg)

In addition to the specific supplements: Taurine (100-1000 mg), Selenium (5-50), Fish oil (250-1000 mg), Dimethylglycine (50-250 mg).

Colitis - inflammatory bowel disease

Supplements: N-Acetyl glucosamine (250-1000 mg), Glutamine (250-3000 mg), Lactobacillus acidophilus (20-500 million microorganisms), Proanthocyanidin complex (10-200 mg), Dimethylglycine (50-200mg), Vitamin C (250-3000).

Chronic diarrhea

Supplements: N-Acetyl glucosamine (250-1500 mg), Digestive enzymes (4-200 mg), Lactobacillus acidophilus (20-500 million microorganisms), Glutamine (250-3000 mg).

Lingering illness
Supplements: Vitamin C (500-6000 mg), Vitamin E (100-400 IU), Proanthocyanidin complex (20-200 mg), Digestive enzymes (10-200).

Connective tissue disorders: Vitamin C (500-6000 mg).

Arthritis: Perna mussel (300-1500 mg).

Hip dysplasia: (Glucosamine sulfate (250-1500 mg).

Sprains: Proanthocyanidin complex (10-200 mg).

In addition to the specific supplements: Glycosaminoglycans (100-1000 mg), Primrose oil (250-1000 mg).

Canine Demodicosis (red mange or "demodex")

Supplements: Vitamin C (500-6000 mg), Digestive enzymes (4-160 mg), Proanthocyanidin complex (10-200 mg), Primrose oil (250-1500 mg), Dimethylglycine (50-250 mg), Vitamin A (500-10,000 IU).

Diabetes mellitus

Supplements: Chromium (50-300), Vitamin C (500-6000 mg), Digestive enzymes (4-160 mg), N-Acetyl glucosamine (200-1500 mg), Proanthocyanidin complex (20-200 mg).

Feline hyperthyroidism

Supplements: B complex vitamins; B1, B2, B6 (2-10 mg), Coenzyme Q10 (10-60 mg), Primrose oil (250-1000 mg).

Feline immunodeficiency virus

Supplements: Vitamin C (500-6000 mg), Proanthocyanidin complex (5-30 mg), Coenzyme Q10 (20-100 mg), Dimethylglycine (50-200 mg).

Food intolerance

Supplements: Pantothenic acid (20-150 mg), Proanthocyanidin complex (10-200 mg), B complex vitamins: B1, B2, B6 (4-40 mg), Folic acid (50-200 mg), Digestive enzymes (4-160 mg).

Lyme disease

Supplements: Vitamin C (500-6000 mg), Fish oil (250-1500 mg), Perna mussel (250-1500 mg), Vitamin E (50-400 IU), Vitamin A (500-10,000 IU).

Neoplasia The growth and development of benign or malignant tumors.): Shark cartilage (5-40 g).

Vascular tumors (a growth (benign or malignant) formed from blood vessels): Coenzyme Q10 (20-100 mg).

Melanoma (cancer of the pigment producing cells in the skin): Vitamin C (1000-10,000 mg).

In addition to the specific supplements: Dimethylglycine (50-500 mg), Proanthocyanidin complex (10-200 mg).

Periodontal (gum) disease

Supplements: Coenzyme Q10 (10-100 mg), Vitamin C (500-6000 mg), Bioflavonoid complex (200-1500 mg).

Cataracts

Supplements: Glutathione (50-250 mg), Vitamin C (500-4000), Coenzyme Q10 (20-100 mg), Proanthocyanidin complex (20-200 mg), Vitamin E (50-400 IU), Dimethylglycine (100-400 mg).

To learn more about holistic treatments and natural healing strategies for pets, be sure to visit Pet Remedy Charts the ultimate guide to using herbs, homeopathy, flower remedies and acupressure in home pet health care.

Healing With Color

Chromotherapy for Pets

It may sound like hocus pocus to some but human hospitals have been practicing it for years, starting with green hospital gowns and painting the rooms in pale blues or green. Light therapy (phototherapy or conventional ultraviolet light phototherapy) is used in hospitals by doctors to treat high bilirubin blood levels in infants and in dermatology to treat skin disorders such as acne or psoriasis. Light therapy is also commonly used to treat patients who experience seasonal affective disorder (living in areas where there is less sun light can cause depression and emotional disorders in some people).

The marketing industry knows that color affects mood and uses it strategically in advertising and packaging to increase sales. The restaurant industry caught on long ago when they started decorating walls in vibrant colors and upholstering booths in bright reds and oranges. Festive colors stimulate people, which makes them want to eat more quickly and that means a higher turn over in customer seating.

Clinical Effectiveness

Every substance on earth contains color. Even the rays cast on earth by celestial bodies contain color in the form of white light. The rays of the sun contain seven different colors violet, indigo, blue, green, yellow, orange and red. These are natural colors which are highly beneficial to the maintenance of health and for healing disease.

Sunlight is the principal curative agent in nature’s laboratory and where light cannot enter, disease will. Anemia, cancer, emaciation, muscular debility, degeneration of heart and liver, edema, softening of bones, nervous excitability, physical deformity, stunted growth and respiratory problems can result from the lack of the beneficial effects of suns light.

Light and color therapy can also be used to enhance the healing capabilities of animals.

If animals cannot see all colors, how can we use colors to treat them?

We know that dogs see Violet, Indigo, Blue, Yellow and Red, including various shades of these colors. Green, Yellow and Orange are too similar to dogs for them to tell them apart. Cats see Purple, Blue, Green and Yellow. Red, Orange and Brown appear as shades of Grey or Purple. Still, color therapy has been successfully used in dogs, cats and horses, as well as pocket pets and birds.

What we need to remember is that each color has a specific wavelength and frequency. The body absorbs light in this energetic form, regardless of what the eyes see. So, Red at a wavelength of 780 to 622nm or a frequency of 384 to 483 THz (depending on the shade) has a different effect on the body than the color Blue at 492 to 455 nm or 610 to 659 THz (Tera hz). Color healing or light therapy works on all bodies due to their response to these differences in light frequencies.

The Energetic Color wheel
The Energetic Color wheel, it is divided into 12 colors in 4 sections. The Median Color Green; the Infra Green colors: lemon-green, yellow, orange and red; the Ultra Green Colors: Turquoise, Blue Indigo and Violet; the Circulatory/Reproductive/Emotional Colors of Scarlet, Magenta and Purple. Green brings the physical body into balance, Magenta the emotional body. Each color influences the body in it’s own way.

Calming colors such as greens and blues can be left in the cage of an animal in the form of colored blankets or towels. It can even help without special lighting.

The action and effect of various colors and their healing qualities:

Red: Symbolic of heat, fire and anger, it is a stimulating and energing color. It stimulates arterial blood and brings warmth to cool extremities. Used as a general tonic, it is very valuable in the treatment of disease like low blood pressure, rheumatism, paralysis, Anaemia and advanced cases of tuberculosis. Do not use this color if there is heat in the body such as inflammation or fever.

Orange: Symbolic of prosperity and pride, orange is useful for stimulating blood supply and energizing the nerves. It is beneficial in the treatment of kidney and gall stones, hernia and appendicitis. It is also used to stimulate milk production after giving birth. Do not use this color if there is heat in the body such as inflammation or fever.

Violet: Violet is beneficial in the treatment of nervous and emotional disturbances, arthritis, acute cases of consumption and insomnia.

Yellow: Associated with joy and happiness, yellow is laxative and diuretic. It is a stimulant to the brain, the liver and the spleen. It is also effective in the treatment of diabetes, indigestion, kidney and liver disorders, constipation, eye and throat infections, syphilis and impotence.

Purple: Purple or indigo combines the blood-warming red and the cooling antiseptic blue. It is an excellent stimulant without being an irritant. It is beneficial in the treatment of advanced stages of constipation, hydrocele, and leucorrhoea, many disorders of stomach and womb, cataract, migraine and skin disorders. It exerts a soothing effect on the eyes, ears and the nervous system.

Green: Made up of blue and yellow, green is regarded as a color of harmony. It is a mild sedative. It is useful in the treatment of nervous conditions, hay fever, ulcers, influenza, malaria, colds, sexual disorders and cancer. It preserves and strengthens eyesight. Being highly medicinal and depressive, it is of great help in the treatment of inflammatory conditions.

Blue: Cool, soothing and sedative, blue alleviates pain, reduces bleeding and heals burns. It is beneficial in the treatment of dysentery, colic, asthma, respiratory disorders, high blood pressure and skin aberrations. In a study at the New England state Hospital in the United States, 25 members of staff with normal blood pressure were bathed in blue light for half an hour. It resulted in universal fall in blood pressure. The blood pressure rose when the red light was applied.

Methods and Instructions

Charged Water Method

In this method, colored glass bottles are used. These bottles should be sterilized and filled to three-fourths full with distilled water. The bottles should be capped or corked and then placed in bright sunlight for three to four hours. After this exposure, the water is said to acquire medicinal properties and this color-charged water can be used in both internal and external applications. Externally, wounds and ulcers can be washed with the treated water and it can also be used to massage the affected parts or it can be applied as a compress.

Internal Dosage Suggestions for Pets, any animal can be given from 1 to 30 ml (depending on size). Tiny animals 1 ml., small cats or dogs, 5 ml, Medium dogs 10 ml, Large dogs 15 ml and Giant breeds or horses 30 ml. of colored-charged water as a single dose. The dose can be repeated as necessary. Human doses can be broken down the same way. The adult dose for a human would be 30 ml.

Direct Light Method

The easiest way to achieve the effect is by using naturally dyed silk cloth, colored pieces of glass, cellophane or translucent vellum (from an art supply store). Put the colored material of choice in front of a 25-40 Watt bulb or flashlight. For use in rehabilitation the animal can receive whole body tonation. Or the light may be focused directly on the affected parts (using the beam from a strong flash light). For therapeutic benefit, light therapy treatments should last 30 to 60 minutes.

Contraindications

There are some important contraindications to color treatment which should be kept in mind while using this method of healing. For instance, the red color would be injurious in inflammatory conditions, and in cases of fever and excitable temperament. If the red light is employed for too long and frequently, it may produce fevers. The danger can be eliminated by only using the red light for a few minutes at a time or by placing a wet compress over the head, neck or belly region.

Similarly, yellow should not be used when an animal is nervous or irritable. Yellow and orange or reddish tones should not be used during fevers, acute inflammations, diarrhea, neuralgia, palpitation of the heart and any condition of an over excited system.

In cases of paralysis, chronic rheumatism, respiratory disorders and in all cold, pale and dormant conditions of the system, blue, indigo and violet many prove to be too cooling and stagnating and should be avoided in these conditions.

Color Therapy also Plays a Roll In Diet

A balanced diet is essential during any treatment of disease. The patient should be given food items with analogous coloring.

The various colors contained in different food items are:

Red: Beets, tomatoes, watercress, most red-skinned, fruits, red berries and water melon.

Orange: Orange-skinned vegetables and fruits such as carrot, apricot, mango, peach and papaya.

Violet: Dark berries

Yellow: Yellow squash, pumpkin, melon, banana, mango, yellow apple.

Purple: Foods having both blue and violet coloring.

Green: Most of the green vegetables and fruits such as gourds, spinach, plantain, romaine lettuce, pea, green mango, gooseberry, pears, beans.

Blue: Blue plum, blue beans, berries.

Special Note: It is extremely important when treating any animal to maintain positive energy and a gentle approach. All beings, especially wild or injured animals or companion animals that are afraid and out of their element, sense their surroundings. Being mindful to be calm and quiet when tending to these patients, this will decrease their anxiety and encourage faster healing on their part. Make their habitat an area of safety where the animal does not constantly feel exposed and learn about the habits of individual species to further decrease stress and increase their comfort level as they heal.

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Herbs in Science - Chilli Peppers

Capsaicin Belly Rub

New research from the University of Cincinnati (UC) shows that a common, over-the-counter pain ointment rubbed on the skin during a heart attack could serve as a cardiac-protectant, preventing or reducing damage to the heart while interventions are administered. These findings are published in the Sept. 14 edition of the journal Circulation.

Keith Jones, PhD, a researcher in the department of pharmacology and cell biophysics, and scientists in his lab have found that applying capsaicin (cap-SAY-isin) to specific skin locations in mice caused sensory nerves in the skin to trigger signals in the nervous system. These signals activate cellular "pro-survival" pathways in the heart which protect the muscle. Capsaicin is the main component of chili peppers and produces a hot sensation. It is also the active ingredient in several topical medications used for temporary pain relief. Capsaicin is approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Jones is working with Neal Weintraub, MD, a UC Health cardiologist and director of UC's cardiovascular diseases division, and other clinicians to construct a translational plan to test capsaicin in a human population.

"Topical capsaicin has no known serious adverse effects and could be easily applied in an ambulance or emergency room setting well in advance of coronary tissue death," Jones says. "If proven effective in humans, this therapy has the potential to reduce injury and/or death in the event of a coronary blockage, thereby reducing the extent and consequences of heart attack."

Researchers observed an 85 percent reduction in cardiac cell death when capsaicin was used.

They also found that a small incision made on the abdomen triggered an 81 percent reduction.

"Both this and the capsaicin effect are shown to work through similar neurological mechanisms," Jones says. "These are the most powerful cardioprotective effects recorded to date.

"This is a form of remote cardioprotection, using a skin stimulus that activates cardioprotection long before the blocked coronary artery is opened."

Weintraub adds that this finding offers an important distinction between existing therapies.

"All of the current interventions require the vessel to be opened before doctors can act, and since it takes time to elicit protection, tissue dies," he says. "This treatment will protect the heart before the vessel is opened while producing a strong protective effect that is already active when we open the vessel."

Jones and Weintraub think that skin—the main sensor and largest human body organ—has evolved to protect animals, including humans, in a variety of ways.

"By activating these sensors in the nervous system, via skin, we think that a response to preserve and protect the heart is triggered," Weintraub says.

"We think that this technique is fooling the body into sending out protective signals," Jones adds. "This may be similar to the way certain acupuncture treatments work; there may be a neurological basis. In a broad sense, this work may provide a 'Rosetta stone' for translating alternative medicine techniques—like acupuncture—to Western medicine. Perhaps we can understand the biological mechanisms of how alternative treatments may be successful for patients."

Now, researchers will further explore this concept by investigating which sensors are associated with certain aspects of organ protection—and how much of specific stimuli are needed to produce the desired responses.

"This could help create favorable outcomes for those who are experiencing stroke, shock or are in need of an organ transplant, and the best part is that it is done non-invasively and is relatively inexpensive," Jones says.

We warn against rubbing capsaicin on your belly if you feel like you are having a heart attack and we warn you against rubbing it on your pet's belly if you think they are in heart failure. But it might be handy to keep some in your first aid kit, to use in a crisis on the way to the hospital or the vet!

We don't know if it will work for all indications, for all patients, and we don't know if it will work over an extended amount of time. A major goal is testing this therapy in clinical trials, but we still need to study more about dosage and application—where we put it on the body for the best results. However, this has tremendous clinical potential and could eventually save lives.

To learn more about holistic treatments and natural healing strategies for pets, be sure to visit Pet Remedy Charts the ultimate guide to using herbs, homeopathy, flower remedies and acupressure in home pet health care.