The Treatment of Cats by Homeopathy [2 ed.] 0850321204

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THE TREATMENT OF CATS BY HOMOEOPATHY

By

the

iame

author:

THE TREATMENT OP DOGS BY HOMOEOPATHY

THE TREATMENT OF CATS BY HOMO E 0 PATHY by K. SHEPPARD illustrated

Stephen

‘:.:,a

by

Brown

‘‘:.

HEALTH SCIENCE PRESS 1 Church Path, Saffron Walden, Essex CBIO

1JP, England

First published as The Homoeopathic Treatment of Cats in 1960 First Paperback edition December 1974 Illustrated edition October 1979 Reprinted October 1981 Reprinted June 1984

© K. SHEPPARD 1960

This book is sold

subject

to the condition that it shall not,

otherwise, be lent, re-sold, hired out,

or

by

way

of trade or

otherwise circulated without the

publisher’sprior consent in any form of binding or cover other than that in which it is published and without a similar condition being imposed on the subsequent purchaser.

ISBN 0 85032

120 4

Made and Printed in Great Britain by Hiliman Printers Ltd, Frome, Somerset

INTRODUCTION stated “Disease is

Hippocrates

and

similar,

administered

good

by the the patient

health..

suppresses,

.

Paracelsus:

similars returns

which

are

from disease

fever is

and

its

produced by

produced by suppressed by what

to

what it it produces.”

“The names of diseases do not

indicate remedies, it is the similar which has to be compared with its similar...

serve

to

comparison serves to reveal the secrets of healing.” This law was proved once again true by and that

Hahnemann

well

over

ioo

years ago. He

experimented

while

in upon himself, good with Peruvian Bark, and found that it

health, produced a fever similar to Malaria. He then repeated this experiment on other healthy people and obtained the same results. He continued these experiments, with hundreds of other substances, on other healthy subjects. The result was always the same; medicines administered in strong doses to the healthy produced symptoms similar to those which were made to disappear in the sick man. From this, the Law

6

TREATMENT OF

BY HOMOEOPATHY

re-established, and Homoeopathy, it is known today, was established.

of Similars as

CATS

There is

was

a

very

common

who know

belief among those

about it that

nothing Homoeopathy medicines in very simply giving small doses. In fact, Homoeopathy differs radically from Allopathic medicine not only in the size of the dose, but in the principle on which the remedies are selected. This principle is that what produces the symptoms if administered in large doses, will cure if given in small ones. Hahnemann by his own experience observed consists

of

that the smaller the dose, the greater the effect. Why the efficacy of the infinitesimal dose

odd, since

should be doubted

seems

medicine

admits the havoc

by

so

readily

orthodox

wrought

the “invisibleand inflitrable virus.” That the Law of Similars is

proved by

the present

gaining ground

is

trend of inoculations

with disease

products. Homoeopathy proves its remedies on healthy people. It does not use animals for experiments. The medicines used by Hahnernann over ioo years ago are still used, with the The ideal is first to find the

same

results.

totality

of the

symptoms and then to find the medicine The times of amelioration them.

cover

aggravation

are

be observed in

of an

to or

help if these can animal—which they often

enormous

TREATMENT OF CATS can

BY HOMOEOPATHY

with careful observation while

nursing

7 a

sick cat. One

must

it is the sick a named

individualise and remember that cat

that

one

is

trying

to cure, not

disease, which may present

different symptoms

as

there

are cats

as

many

affected.

ABSCESS Cats

are

get them

rather prone to abscesses. They often the face and this may be due—

on

in old cats—to a bad tooth, which should be attended to and, if necessary, extracted

especially

(see Teeth), or on the throat or neck or anywhere on the body. They also develop septic conditions as the result of scratches and fights. by

In

a

veterinary

some

cases

surgeon

these

conditions

accompanied by high temperature, is obviously in pain and very ill. TREATMENT: Bathe with

may be and the cat

warm

Calendula

(one teaspoonful of Calendula 0 to half a of hot water), every 3 hours. Give Tarentula Cubensis 30, internally at hourly intervals, eases the pain in an astonishing manner brings the abscess to a head speedily, and

Lotion cup

this and

will sometimes abort it. When the abscess has

opened

and

is discharging,

apply locally compress of Calendula Lotion (as above) and keep it in place with a a

bandage; change

the lint

frequently.

When the

10

TREATMENT

bulk

of

the

OF

CATS

BY HOMOEOPAThY

has

discharge

come

use

away,

Calendula Ointment instead of the lotion. If Tarentula Cubensis is not available, Belladonna 6 at two

hourly

and

pain begins two

intervals will relieve the

the abscess to

a head, when it bring to discharge, give He par Sulph 6 every or three hours and He apply par Suiph ointment to clear away the rest of the discharge.

ANAEMIA Cats often show illness

Gums the

signs

of anaemia after

acute

loss of blood. The symptoms paler than usual, in cats with pink or

nose

are: noses

is almost white, the cat is listless.

TREATMENT: If it

develops

after acute illness

give Calcium Phos 3X or Natrum Mur 6x, three times a day, this will improve the condition. In addition

give plenty

of

nourishing

food

and

see that the cat gets fresh air. If the anaemia is the result of loss of blood, give

China

3 every four hours.

ASTHMA Old cats sometimes suffer from asthma; the

cough breathing.

symptoms

are

and

laboured

or

spasmodic

TREATMENT OF CATS

TREATMENT: If warm

room

either

hot

Sulphur

30,

worse

cold,

one

at

by changes

or or

BY HOMOEOPATHY

If the condition is

of

worse

in

a

temperature,

moving, give only, repeat when necessary. or

dose

night,

I I

worse

worse

by

any kind of

exertion,

hugs the fire and is better by warmth, yet seeks cold water to drink, give Arsenicum Album 30, one dose only will relieve the

cat

the symptoms. Should the

cat

cough

beaten white of egg, hour will alleviate,

and vomit saliva like

Ipecacuanha or

3 every half 6 every two

Bryonia lying

hours if the animal is better

still and is

decidedly thirsty. Spongia ix every two hours is called for when there is panting, difficult respiration with suffocative cough. DO NOT repeat the dose while the improvement is maintained.

TREATMENT OF

12

CATS

BY HOMOEOPATHY

BLADDER-INFLAMMATION

(Cystitis)

This is often the result of

Symptoms:

a

chill

and if taken in time Rhus Toxicodendron 6 at intervals may cut it short but, as a it is not noticed until it has gone too far.

hourly

two

rule,

always demanding to be let out, it strains and passes only a few drops of urine. Give Apis 3X every two hours when there is frequent and involuntary urination which is scanty and high coloured. Then the cat is

Cantharis 3 every two hours where there is urging and constant desire to urinate.

intolerable

The urine

might

be

bloody

and there is

great pain. Terebinthina 3 at half-hourly intervals. This is particularly indicated where there is bloody

urine,

and in

cases

of inflamed

kidneys following

influenza. any Neutered males sometimes suffer from gravel, acute disease such at cat

this blocks the

urinary

passage

causing

the strain to pass urine. The distended can

be felt like

a

the

cat

bladder

hard ball at the lower back of

the abdomen, it feels warm and is sensitive to touch. It is obvious that the animal is suffering

mentally and physically and it loses condition very quickly. In these cases Thiaspi Bursa 0, two or three drops every half hour will often render the

use

of the catheter unnecessary.

TREATMENT OF CATS

BY HOMOEQPATHY

13

BRONCHITIS This is

fairly

a

wet or

common

trouble in

cold weather. It is

cats during

generally

rise in temperature,

accompanied

throat, cough, wheezy breathing and dribbling from the mouth. The animal is generally too distressed

by

a

to take

food.

TREATMENT: Aconite 30, hours will often cut short

caused by

a sore

an

dose every four

attack if it is

sharp, spell of weather. If there is no improvement within 12 hours this is not the remedy. a

sudden

a

cold

Give Rhus Tox 6 every

two

hours

if

the

damp, or Bryonia 6 every two hours if the cough is dry and the cat worse by movement or is thirsty. The cat should be kept attack is due to

in

an

with

even

an

temperature, free from draughts,

open window.

BURNS AND SCALDS A cat may be scalded

into unsuitable

or

burned

places owing

to

by jumping its

inherent

14

TREATMENT

OF

CATS

BY HOMOEOPATHY

curiosity, and it is not only burnt by any such accident.

restless

badly

TREATMENT: If the burn severe

one,

warmed

quickly apply

cotton

give, internally, be repeated in 2 shows signs of a

wool

apply

in

to

or a

the

scald is not

a

large piece of

burned

area

and

Urtica Urens 30 and this can to 4 hours or when the animal return

Should the burn

large

but

shocked

or

of the

scald be

Urtica Urens 0

pain. more

than superficial,

locally (one

teaspoonful

to a pint of water, or 20 drops to a cup of water), soak a pad of Lint or gauze

this,

Remove

cover

with cotton wool and

bandage. dressing feels gauze (without removing

the cotton wool when the

dry and re-soak the lint or it) with a few drops of the lotion. Urtica Urens relieves the

pain

very

quickly.

CANKER OF THE EAR Cats get two forms of Canker. The form is really eczematous and it

common

of the system in other form is due to a parasite. to

overheating

more

is due

general.

The

A cat with either form of Canker shakes its head

and scratches BEHIND the ear, often

TREATMENT OF CATS

causing

bare

a

when the

ear

The

allayed.

patch;

BY HOMOEOPATHY

this

ear

itself becomes hot and there is

accumulation of

the

ear.

a

dark

wax

TREATMENT: Clean out the

piece

a

quickly

is attended to and the irritation

an

with

heals

sore

15

of cotton wool

on

discharge

ear

in

thoroughly

small

tweezers

match stick; it is, of course, necessary to fresh cotton wool each time it is withdrawn.

or a use

Then insert

daily The

a

little Calendula Ointment. Continue

until the

ears are

cured.

is suitable for the parasitical form of canker which is, however, very same treatment

contagious.

Here the

discharge

is

dryer

and

greyer in colour, arid the mites can be seen moving about quite easily. This form in particular will sometimes cause a kind of paralysis in the cat, the cat carries its head to one side, it moves as if intoxicated and after a few steps will fall

on

its side.

give internally a dose of Sulphur repeated in a week if condition is not by then quite cleared.

In both

cases

200, which may be

the

Sometimes there is

a

very offensive acrid persistent

from the ear, then Tellurium

discharge remedy par excellence, given one dose two or three days over a long period. A every cat requiring Tellurium usually has some skin 30 is the

i6

BY HOMOEOPATHY

TREATMENT OF CATS

trouble and it is particularly difficult to handle as it is very sensitive

symptoms

as

well

and afraid of

CATARRH

ear

as

being

touched.

(Chronic)

This is sometimes the result of or

an

attack of feline influenza,

very obstinate form of

constantly from its out

simple

a a

cat

cold

gets

a

catarrh; it discharges

nose,

sneezes

and

blows

mattery discharge. This condition, occasionally, if it is not very bad may clear up spontaneously, but if it does not, treatment must be

given. TREATMENT:

timid and very

amiable and is

a

(i) if the cat is always worse in

warm

room,

one dose of Pulsatilla 30 every two or three

days for

a

couple

of weeks

or

longer

If the cat is

clear the catarrh.

will often

(2) from better cold a dose winds, warmth, dry for of Hepar Suiphuris 30 every two or three days, again for some weeks, should help to cure. () If the first two remedies. do not cure Silicea 30 will generally do so, if given in the same way. The Silicea patient lacks vital heat, suffers from the cold and hugs the fire. (4)

There

are some cases

troublesome eyes, edges of the lids

an

worse

with stoppage of the nose, acrid discharge, and the

are

red; Psorinum

200,

one

BY HOMOEOPATHY

ATMENT OF CATS

17

dose, will often clear up all these symptoms. Rhino-A ntipeol put up the nostrils two or

day is very helpful. This is supplied by Medico-Biological Laboratories Ltd., Cargreen Road, South Norwood, London, S.E.25. (6) In cases where the cat has been overdosed without good results, Teucrium Marum 6, three times a day, may cure. three times a

The

CHOKING Cats sometimes become choked by fish other

lodged

small

bones.

across

the

mouth and shows

Sometimes

palate, signs of

the bone and

end of

a

Should

fork a

remove

or

spoon small bone

distress one

it with

so

forceps

remove

usually or

the

quite easily.

veterinary assistance,

be needed to

that it is

can

or

needle

or

obstruction get into the throat this is

for

becomes

one

the cat claws at its

generally quickly noticeable. Upon opening the mouth see

or

as an

any such a

matter

anasthetic may

it.

A few doses of Arnica Montana 6 will any abrasioos to the skin and

help

to

cure

allay

the

shock to the system after removal of the object.

i8

TREATMENT OF CATS

BY HOMOEOPATHY

COLDS Cats

very subject to colds which are If there is more than one cat it is

are

contagious. advisable

to

isolate the

one

with the cold

at

once.

symptoms are sneezing and watering eyes and nose. With a simple cold there is little The

temperature but the

or no

indoors otherwise it or

cat should be

might develop

kept

bronchitis

pneumonia. Unless checked in the

early stages,

the discharge

turns

develop

to a thick mucus and the cat may chronic catarrh, which is not easy to

cure.

Colds

are

usually

caused

by sudden changes

in the weather. The absence of temperature helps to distinguish a simple cold from cat influenza. The cat with does it,

as a

simple cold, though

uncomfortable,

does not appear to be very ill,

nor

a

rule, lose its appetite.

TREATMENT: Aconite 30,

a

dose every four

hours for 3 doses in all if the cold follows a sudden cold spell. If there is no improvement and the watery symptoms are marked, try Kali lod ix

every two hours in alternation with Belladonna ix.

Should the trouble follow

a

cold, damp spell

TREATMENT OF CATS

and the

cat

three times

a

BY HOMOEOPATHY

19

a lot, give Gelsemium 6 Gelsemium suits cats particularly day.

sneezes

well. If the green,

discharge has become thick, yellowgive Merc Sol 6 three times a day.

CONSTIPATION Cats

leading a natural life seldom suffer from constipation, but occasionally this occurs. If this is allowed to continue it may lead to paralysis of the hind legs.

Very

a

temporary

often milk alone will be all that is

needed as, with many cats, its

If, however, this should

acts as an aperient.

not

suffice, give

Nux Vomica 6 every two hours or, for large, hard, dry stools, Bryonia Aib 6 at two hourly

intervals. If the motions

in small, hard pieces give Opium 3 every six hours. Olive oil mixed in the food, if the cat does not

given by mouth in teaspoon doses day will often alleviate the condition to help pass a hairball which could

object,

once or

or

twice

or

are

a

cause an obstruction.

20

TREATMENT OF CATS

BY HOMOEOPATHY

COUGHS Cats easily get coughs,

doubt

owing to their habit of sitting in the warmest places and then going out to sit on a wall gazing into space. As a rule they are not ill with a cough, though it is wise to keep them in for fear it should lead to something more serious. no

TREATMENT:

Bryonia 6 every two hours for a few doses will generally clear up a dry cough or, if it is spasmodic, Arsenicum Aib 6 three times a day. Some cats cough because they have worms and in these cases Cina 3 at four hourly intervals is indicated.

DIARRHOEA This is

complaint in cats. It may be due to simple indigestion or, in kittens, worms or teething can cause the upset. quite

a common

BY HOMOEOPATHY

TREATMENT OF CATS

It also

occurs

which cats

are

in the

prone

more

so

21

serious diseases to

that it should

be

never

overlooked. Old cats not

uncommonly suffer from

diarrhcra, which may be due to various

chronic causes.

TREATMENT: For very amiable cats with “no two stools alike”, Pulsatilla 6 works like a a dose every two hours. Where stools are very offensive, acrid, small, liquid and sometimes bloody, and the cat appears

charm,

ill, restless and depressed, seeks the warmth, give Arsenicum AIb 3 every four hours but do not continue this remedy if there is no

improvement

within

If the stools and the

are

depression

48 hours. larger and blood-streaked, not so

Corrosivus 6 at four

When the stools

marked, give

hourly

Mercurius

intervals.

grey or white coloured, give Phosphorus 3X every two hours. Where there are solid hard lumps in watery are

diarrhcea, give Antimonium Crudum hourly intervals. If the stools 6 every

are

two

watery yellow,

6 at two

give

Podophyllum

hours.

Green, chopped white

and

yellow

mucus

indicate

the need for Chamomilla 6 two to four

hourly. If the attack

give

occurs

in

Dulcamara 6 every

damp,

cold weather,

two or three hours.

TREATMENT OF CATS

22

DISTEMPER

or

BY HOMOEOPATRY

INFLUENZA

This is a very infectious disease. It takes various forms and is always accompanied by a rise in temperature which

sharp

helps

form from the

the catarrhal

to distinguish

common

cold. It is a

now

different

assumed that infectious enteritis is

from

complaint

nevertheless, it is

ordinary

not at

all

influenza;

cat

uncommon

for some kittens to show catarrhal symptoms and others, at the same time, to be affected with the symptoms of infectious enteritis. However, for the latter In

one

see

form of cat

is

under that

distemper,

often missed

quite

as

heading.

the initial infection there

no

are

marked symptoms of any kind except lassitude, rapid wasting and a high temperature of about

1050.

The

move, and

functions a

just lies prefers to be cat

appear to be at

few days the

TREATMENT:

meat, throat

cut

up

about and refuses to alone. All the a

bodily

standstill and within

cat will become very weak.

Feed

small

day pushed

twice

and

a

with down

raw

the

(about i or 2 ozs for an adult cat). For kittens, shredded raw meat is better and I have found that

mouth with

pressing a

this in at the side of the

wooden skewer will often induce

TREATMENT OF

them

idle,

take it,

to

There

beyond

even

if

assist, though

to

one no

give

CATS

BY HOMOEOPATHY

they

at

are

too

weak,

23 or

first they invariably

assistance.

very few symptoms in this form the marked inactivity and disinclination are

to be

kept warm. Give Sulphur 30 morning and evening for as long as the temperature keeps up. The catarrhal form begins in very much the way as a common cold, but there is a rise of temperature of several degrees, the cat same

refuses its sneezes

appears dull and shivery, and with watery discharge from the nose,

foods,

and the eyes are watery. The these conditions is Gelsemium

hourly intervals; is not thirsty and cold

weather.

a

cat

treatment

requiring

30 at four this remedy

the attack often follows

Should

for

damp,

the

symptoms appear exposure to dry cold weather and be noticed early, Aconite 30 at four hourly intervals after

this

might cut remedy if

it short but do not continue with

there is

24 hours. As the cat is

prefers

improvement within not a fussy animal and

no

to retire when it is

is often missed and, more

sick, this first stage

in the next stage the eyes they are very sensitive

inflamed and

get to light and in these circumstances Belladonna

30 at four

hourly intervals,

is the indicated

remedy. Should this stage be missed and the

cat

shows

TREATMENT OF CATS

24

of difficult

signs

BY HOMOEOPATHY

breathing, temperature

remains

and the animal hates to move, it cough, is thirsty and may drink cold

high has

a

dry

water while still

declining food, give Bryonia

3 in alternation with Phosphorus 3 at twohourly intervals but as improvement takes place

lengthen

the

period

between doses.

When the cat is very

prostrated yet restless, for small of cold water and has very thirsty sips offensive diarrhcea, with small dark or dysenteric motions and

a dry, red tongue, all discharges offensive then Arsenicum Aib very 30 every four hours for three doses only, may help the animal to recover. The time signal

are

for Arsenicum Aib is often after

after

helpful, until

it is “worse

midnight p.m.” Similarly the indication for Phosphorus is “worseat twilight”(this very marked symptom once guided me to the remedy and cure of a very sick cat). There is another form of distemper very similar or

noon

2

last, but the breath is fetid has a burned, dry and brown

to the

and the

tongue with the

appearance

is

edges red and shining, the animal extremely prostrated with putrid phenornena.

The treatment for this state is every hour. If the cat is

is, of course,

as

ill

quite

as

in the last

Baptisia two cases

3X

it

unable to assimilate solid

TREATMENT OF CATS

food. Give Brands’

Honey

water

or

Glucose and

25

Elm food,

Essence, Slippery

of

small

BY HOMOEOPATHY

water

in

very

desert-

quantities teaspoonful spoonful every two to four hours (according to the size of the cat), given at the side of the mouth with a hypodermic syringe from which or

a

the needle has been removed. This upsets the cat very little and all feeding, cleaning up and

dosing

can

be done at the

teaspoonful acceptable. a

be

time. Sometimes

same

of orange

juice

seems

to

I have saved very young kittens, which have very little resistance to this infection, and the

kittens

moribund, with

dose of

Pyrogen remedy is amazing, for the kittens were all but dead, quite cold, with temperature very sub-normal, and obstinate constipation. The guiding symptoms here are that the pulse is out of proportion to the temperature and were

one

30. This

the animal smells like death. With the catarrhal form the a

very

sore

exceedingly

cat often

sorry for itself. This form is

common; the cat is very ill and a

gets

throat and dribbles saliva and it is

cleanly animal,

it hates the

being mess

quite essentially

it is in.

bluish; there is probably difficult breathing, a dry cough; it is generally worse at night, better for warmth and

The throat is dark red

rest.

Phytolacca

or

30 every four hours will

relieve most of the symptoms.

soon

26

TREATMENT

OF

CATS

BY IIOMOEOPATHY

For the treatment of eye and chronic catarrh under those headings.

see

ECZEMA This disease is not

contagious.

fairly

common

It is often

a

in cats. It is

constitutional disease

and very obstinate, at other times it may be caused by unsuitable diet or worms, or too close confinement. The symptoms vary. There are two kinds of eczema: the

variety

consists of

dull and there is

a

dry

skin and the

coat

dry looks

lot of scurf in the hair, the cat’s skin is irritated, it feels hot and the animal scratches

a

This type of

by

a

a

lot. eczema

may sometimes be cured

complete change of fed mainly on fish,

diet. If the

cat has

meat change it up. the form just described Natrum Muriaticum 6x morning and evening will often be of help, particularly if it shows signs of anaemia. Arsenicum Aib 3 morning and evening may help or a single dose of Arsenicum Aib 30 or 200 and not repeated for a week may give the desired effect, especially if the skin is scaly and it seems painful after scratching. The first remedy mentioned (Natrum Muriaticum) might be better where there is a dirty looking skin, and it may be a little withered. been

may clear

In

a

to

TREATMENT OF CATS

The moist

variety,

BY HOMOEOPATI{Y

27

where the skin is red and

irritated, the cat licks and makes sore, sticky places, the animal feels hot to the touch, dislikes warmth and looks unthrifty, give Sulphur 6

morning and evening until the condition shows improvement and then, when most of the symptoms have cleared up give one single dose of Sulphur 200 which should clear up the complaint. Calendula ointment applied to the sore patches relieves the irritation, or diluted T.C.P. is very healing and helps the hair to grow on bald patches. If the

eczema

is due to worms, treat for that

complaint. EYES Cats

particularly prone to eye troubles. They may, however, get them injured in fights and they frequently get inflamed with catarrhal influenza. They can, of course, also get inflammation through dust or sawdust, or from exposure to cold winds or draughts. In cases of injury bathe with Calendula lotion just warm (five drops of Calendula 0 to a wineglass of water), this is very soothing and heals quickly. It should be used three times a day. Internally, give a dose of Arnica 6 three times a day. In catarrhal influenza I have found In fluare

not

28

TREATMENT OF CATS

BY HOMOEOPATHY

enzinum 30, every second or third day, to be more helpful than anything else where the eyes very mattery and sore, and bathe locally with Calendula lotion, as per directions above. A temporary inflammation with watering as are

the result of exposure to cold winds

responds

of Aconite 30. One dose will often clear up this condition. If the trouble is due to dust bathe with

very

nicely

Euphrasia lotion (ten drops of Euphrasia 0 to a wine glass of warm water) three or four times a day. Should the cat object to this lotion it may be further diluted and it will work just as well. At times

better than

will clear up eye troubles

Euphrasia

Calendula,

at others the reverse is

the case.

If the

eyelids

stick

Calendula ointment If the eyes

are

(a teaspoon

Saline

Cats which

are

together,

on

smear

little

them after treatment.

very mattery,

of salt out

a

to a

pint

bathe

of

with

water).

of condition often have

the third eye partially a

case

the

general

Some kittens with inverted are

over the eye and in such condition needs attention.

born with their eyes open, or eyelids or eyelash troubles; these

are

congenital defects

and

Inverted

a matter

for

a veterinary

be eyelashes by a slight operation. It would be to use such stock for breeding.

surgeon.

can

remedied

inadvisable

TREATMENT OF CATS

BY HOMOEOPATHY

29

Tuberculosis also affects cats’ eyes but, of course, the disease would not be confined to the eyes. Sometimes

kittens get colds in their eyes which will water persistently for weeks on end. Silica 6 two

or

weeks, followed

three times

by

Silica 30,

day for several morning and evenirig, a

will sometimes clear up the trouble. In these cases wipe the eyes with cotton wool but

do not

use

external

of any kind.

applications

FITS Fits at

are not at

teething

and sudden

all

time

common

in cats but kittens

(4-6 months)

changes of food

are

or

easily

upset

environment

at this time will sometimes induce convulsions. They may be the result of worms. The symptoms are, the kitten may suddenly fall on its side, or it may cry and rush about,

frothing

at the mouth.

temporarily quite carefully or if possible, and if it is or in a place where it

It is

unconscious and should be handled it may bite. It is better, not being very excitable cannot hurt itself

escape, to leave it where it is until it has quietened down and it can be confined to

a

quiet,

or

dark

room.

When the kitten has calmed down Chamomilla 6 every two hours for a few

give days,

ATMENT

30

OF

CATS

BY HOMOEOPATHY

then stop and repeat if there is any

recurrence

of the trouble. Feed

on a

time, do

light

diet and

keep quiet for some play games lest it

not encourage it to

should get

over

excited.

FLEAS Cats

pick

in summer,

up fleas or

quite readily

in the grass

from other infected animals,

from birds and mice which catch. Some kittens

very easily. Rub any

good

coat but be

sure

they

seem to attract

insect

powder

that it has

no

or

may hunt and

these pests

into the cat’s

D.D.T. in it

as

this is very poisonous to cats. If possible, powder the cat out of doors and leave the powder on for a few minutes, then let the cat shake itself and brush and comb it well. Be sure to

powder

the cat’s

sleeping quarters

as

well

the cat. Repeat the process every week days until the coat is clean.

or

as

ten

Internally, give one dose of Sulphur 200 as this appears to discourage the pests. Repeat the dose

once a

carriers of

week for three weeks. Fleas

Tapeworm.

of this pest.

Make

sure

are

also

the cat is free

TREATMENT OF CATS

BY HOMOEOPAThY

31

FRACTURES In

an

accident where

a cat

may break

a

leg

or get injured in a trap while hunting, this trouble must be attended to as soon as possible

and if there is

a

break,

set

without delay by

a

veterinary surgeon. The administration of Arnica Montana 6 every two to four hours will

help

to overcome ix

given

the shock

three times

bone has united, will

and, later, Symphytum a

expedite

day the

until the cure

and

keep the patient comfortable. Some rickety kittens easily fracture their legs and Silica 6 at four hourly intervals for some time will strengthen the bones or, Calcium Phos 6 two or three times a day will benefit delicate

TREATMENT OF CATS BY IIOMOEOPATHY

32

kittens that do not

show symptoms of

actually

rickets. Silica 6 and Calcium Phos 6 three

hourly

be

given good results bone development can

in alternation with

where the kitten is delicate and

poor. The addition of Bone Meal to kittens’ food is helpful to good bone formation.

HAIR BALL As

cats groom themselves with their

it is particularly necessary

tongues

to comb them frequently

shedded

they mouking, particularly long-haired Short-haired cats, when coating profusely, to remove the

coat when

with

are

cats.

also need this attention, otherwise

the hair

passes into the intestines and forms hair ball. As a rule, cats enjoying their liberty

occasionally a

eat

grass

and

vomit up

the

hair which

they

have swallowed before it passes into the intestines. When they have not access to grass they may go off their food. The cat should be dosed with

Liquid

Olive Oil in teaspoon doses during the moulting season so as or

formation of these hair balls. If

formed

evening

give larger

a

doses of the oil

until the cat passes

or

once a to

Paraf/in

week

avoid the

hair ball has

morning

and

vomits the ol>.

TREATMENT OF CATS BY HOMOEOPATHY

struction. An occasional dose of

Sulphur

33

30 will

help at this time.

INDIGESTION Cats occasionally suffer from indigestion, particularly those that may have been hand reared and possibly overfed. The symptoms are occasional sickness and sometimes diarrhca

or

constipation.

The cat

may eat well and later throw up all its food, or it may be temporarily off its food but not be

very upset by these attacks. Should the attack be caused

by fat,

rich

give Pulsatila 6 every three hours, this will help especially if the cat has diarrhcca with food

“notwo motions alike.” In other weak

cases

or two

will

Carbo-Nux 6 after meals for

generally

tone up

the

a

digestive

organs.

INFEC11OUS ENTERITIS This is the

most

feared illness

to which cats

are prone; the death rate is enomious. 3—TFOli

TREATMENT OF

34

CATS

BY IIOMOEOPATHY

The disease is very infectious and more or less confined to kittens and cats under a year old.

Quite

epidemic one kitten catarrhal distemper and

often

during

an

will show symptoms of another of infectious enteritis. It is liable to appear after There is a

probably

spell of cold weather. period of latency when

a

runs

temperature but, apart from

a

lassitude, shows

the kitten

other symptoms. At the above mentioned stage, if it should be no

observed, Aconite 30 night and morning for a day or two, might abort the condition. However, this stage is very seldom noticed and, in the next stage there is violent and persistent

sickness skin

and

of the

course

little

the

creature,

and bone.

The

during

hours, temperature falls

the

wastes away to

next few

to subnormal,

the kitten seeks water and may even

try

to

lap

do so; it

some

sits

but it is

over

as

if it

were

afraid

to

the bowl of water and, if it

lap again sick. It will lie about, only moving to be sick. The vomiting often starts with an evacuation does

it is

like the beaten white of to

egg but it soon turns bile. The kitten generally dies within 48 an

hours. Give

Phosphorus

3 and

Bryonia

Aib 3

two hours and continue

in

alternation

for 24

every hours after all signs of sickness have disap

TREATMENT OF CATS BY HOMOEOPATHY

peared.

When the kitten has recovered

dose of Psorinum

35

give

one

commence treatment on

the

200.

It is essential to

first day, by the second it may be to react to any medicine.

too

far gone

JAUNDICE This is not it may occur more serious

a

as

common

complaint

the result of

a

in cats but

chill, apart from

organic diseases. It sometimes accompanies cat distemper. The symptoms are loss of appetite, obstinate constipation and great depression; the cat wastes very quickly. The skin turns yellow (this causes

such

as

is not easy to ascertain in cats but can be observed in the mouth and inside the ears in most

The urine is very

cats).

highly

scanty. The treatment is Chelidonium

hourly

in alternation with

The cat should be have

as

much water

kept as

coloured and

Major Bryonia 6.

warm

6 two

and it should

it will drink. Should it

refuse all food it must be fed with small quantities of beef-tea or rabbit soup several times a

day,

or

equal parts

milk and soda water will

36

BY HOMOEOPATHY

TREATMENT OF CATS

be

sometimes

retained.

All

fats

should

be

avoided. After recovery Sulphur 30 a dose morning and evening for two or three days will assist the cure.

KIDNEY TROUBLES Cats

can

get

kidney

trouble

as

the result of

a

chill and under these circumstances the treatment is

for Bladder trouble

as

(see

page

12).

of Tuberculosis, the kidneys are also affected but in these cases it is far better to have In

cases

the animal

destroyed.

The symptoms of NEPHRITIS are, greater frequency in passing water, and there may be blood in the urine. There is marked thirst, the animal is

depressed

warmth and it has the

and listless, an

generally seeks unthrifty appearance;

appetite may be retained.

TREATMENT OF

CATS

BY HOMOEOPATHY

37

attack, as the result of a chill, is noticed very early, condition and if the Aconite 30 may relieve most of the symptoms. In

acute

an

the

however,

If,

condition

chronic, which is not old cats

with

(and

a

T.B.

put

out

appears infrequently the

to

be

case

in

not very uncommon in young cats

taint) it is better misery.

to have the

ammal

of its

Sometimes one

Arsenicum Aib 30 will help; give dose and do not repeat until the symptoms

re-appear.

LICE

or

Cats

pick

up lice in hay or straw, in the grass from other infected animals.

They

very small, whitish or greyish, looking scurf, and they multiply at an amazing

life

are

speed; they lay their incessantly.

eggs in the hair. The cat

scratches

The treatment is If the

cat

is

a

as

for Fleas

great hunter

(see or

page 30). lives in the

country and is liable to pick up lice it is as well to powder its coat at regular intervals as a preventative measure.

MANGE This is fairly

common

in cats. It is

one

of the

38

TREATMENT

few to

OF

CATS

BY HOMOEOPATHY

which may be communicated

complaints

man.

The symptoms usually appear at first on the head, round the eyes and on the ears. The irritation is intense and to the

irritation

complaint run

worse

for warmth.

(which helps

from

to

Owing distinguish this

the cat gets very

Ringworm)

down.

A cat affected with this trouble should be isolated and all its

disinfected,

or

brushes and combs

bedding,

they may

re-infect it.

For treatment bathe the cat

three weeks in i

gallon

of

2

water.

ozs

of

Suiphurated

If there is

week for

once a

more

Potash

than

to

one cat

it is safer to bathe them all, as a protective measure, even if they do not show any symptoms of the complaint. The toilet articles

can

be soaked in the

same

solution.

Keep dry and

the cat in the

warm

until it is

quite

it has lain

on with spray every place 40 per cent Formaldehyde Solution. Do not put the cat back into its quarters until the spray

has dried and the fumes have Give It take

one

dose of

Sulphur

evaporated.

30 after each bath.

will, of course, be necessary for persons to precautions against the contagion to themselves, they should wash their hands with a

suitable disinfectant and spray any of their garments on which the cat may have lain.

TREATMENT

OF

CATS

BY HOMOEOPATHY

39

NEUTERING Male cats which

be neutered

are

kept

as

pets only should

nearly, but always, unpleasant. A whole male also strays, looking for mates, and gets himself involved in fights. The operation, which should be performed by a qualified veterinary surgeon, is quite simple and it can be performed at any time not

unneutered male, sprays and this is most as an

after the age of three months. Before that age the testicles are not likely to have descended and the

cat

can

at stud

operation

could not be

be neutered

even

and it settles down

performed.

A

after it has been used

quite

well

pet after it. After the age of six months it is

as a

illegal

household

to perform

operation without an anesthetic. advantageous to defer the operation until

this

It is the

cat

has

matured

as

the male head is

attractive and this masculine appearance seldom develops if the neutering is carried out too

early. Very rarely is there any trouble after the operation but it is advisable to keep the cat quiet and warm for a few days and to administer a

few doses of Arnica Montana 6 to any

speed

shock from the

up the

healing process.

operation

overcome

and

to

TREATMENT OF CATS BY HOMOEOPATHY

40

Female

cats are

spayed,

see

under that headl

ug. OZOENA OR SNUFFLES—See Chronic Catarrh PARALYSIS When

Paralysis

the

spine it destroyed.

is the result of

an

is best to have the cat

Cats sometimes get

the hind legs due

to

a

temporary paralysis of

constipation. change the diet.

It is advisable to as a

injury to painlessly

Milk acts

mild

given

aperient in many cats so this may be freely, also give fish and, if the cat likes

them, green vegetables with in them. Avoid meat with the

which cats

generally

a

little Olive Oil

exception of liver, like and which tends to

be laxative. Give Nux Vomica 3 three times a day as this will relieve the constipation and the pressure on the nerves, it will also tone up the digestion. An enema might be necessary to clear the bowels. A

the

form of ear

pseudo-paralysis

from canker of

is not uncommon, for this

(page u).

see

Canker

TREATMENT OF CATS

BY ROMOEOPATHY

41

PNEUMONIA This may

occur

during

the

course

of Distemper,

especially if the initial rise of temperature is not noticed or, it may be the result of a chill. The symptoms but not

are

always

a

rapid breathing, sometimes cough, and a sharp rise

of temperature. The cat is off its food and disinclined to move; it may be thirsty.

Treatment in the intial stages is Aconite 30 at hourly intervals for three doses only; this may abort the whole condition speedily. If there is no improvement in 12 hours

Bryonia

in alternation with

every two hours. Keep the cat warm, out of

give Phosphorus y

draughts

but with

plenty of fresh air and leave it alone as much as possible. Let it drink water which it probably will, or milk. Do not forcibly feed it for at least 48 hours. Pneumonia responds very nicely to homoeopathic remedies which do not further lower

animal’s resistance

to

the

the disease.

RHEUMATISM Cats do

not often

suffer with

but it does sometimes affect them.

Rheumatism

OF

TREATMENT

42

BY NOMOEOPATHY

CATS

A few doses of Rhus Toxicodendron 30

alternation with relief very

give In

one

above

Bryonia quickly.

Aib 30 will

which did not

case

mentioned

living suffering appeared

lfl

generally

respond

the

to

remedies, the cat had been damp place, and the

out of doors in a

to be localised

For days the

were

straighten assumption that this might

On the case

if it

the hindquarters.

and unable to

crippled a

in the hindquarters.

cat moved as

of which

Dr.

Burnett called

be

“stored

Gout”, Urtica Urens 0, five drops in i oz of hot water was given eight hourly. This cured the cat very quickly.

RICKETS This is not does

occur.

bones

are

It is

soft,

kitten walks

It

a common a

complaint

disease

in cats but it

affecting kittens,

weak and bent. In bad

on

cases

its ankles rather than

with

and has

on

the

the its

difficulty generally appearance with a dry stary coat. The animal is inclined to sit about instead of toes.

moves

a

unthrifty

playing

as

a

normal kitten should.

by Rickets are generally of unhealthy stock, though wrong feeding of the mother before birth may be partly responsible. Diet is very important. Fresh Milk (Goat Milk is particularly good), Rabbit, Raw Meat, Kittens affected

TREATMENT OF CATS

and Fish

given a

two

are

43

BY HOMOEOPATHY

essential and the kitten should be

drops of

little bone meal

Haliverol

on

daily,

and

sprinkle

its food.

The kitten should be about and those in

encouraged to move charge of it might induce

by playing with it. It should, of course, housed in a dry warm place and exposed sunlight as much as possible. this

be to

If the animal is undersized, cold, thin and helpless give Silica 200; one dose will give

looks it if

literally bring it to life. This can, necessary, be repeated once a week for three

grit

and

weeks but

one

dose will often be all that is

necessary. Give Calcium Phos 3x in each meal. The fat Scrofulous kitten that appears to be

lazy

rather than

strikingly

delicate needs

of Calcium Carbonica 30 every

days

over a

period

If the mother

of

two to

two

a

or

dose

three

three weeks.

of being responsible for the kitten’s condition, she should cat

is

suspected

be very carefully fed the next time she is pregnant, with Cod Liver Oil, Bone Meal and Yeast

supplements. The addition of the

five Phosphates as supplied Biochemic manufacturers by (the publishers will give an address on receipt of a stamped addressed envelope), twice a day in her food will give her family a good start.

TREATMENT OF

44

BY HOMOEOPATHY

CATS

/

RINGWORM This is another skin complaint which is

only

very

contagious

from

animals but also to human

is due to

beings. fungus

and there

are

cat.

The name

is

present

the

cat to cat and other

varieties of the disease which affect the

Ringworm two

not

a

misleading as a cat does not always the rings usually associated with

name.

The

variety

known

“Honeycomb Ringworm” distinguished by round-shaped appear with a central depression, as

be

can

scabs which

usually on the head, ears or paws. The other type generally starts on the same places but, if unchecked, it may spread to all parts of the The

cat.

lesions are

small, dry, grey and scaly-

TREATMENT OF CATS

looking

first.

at

BY HOMOEOPATHY

if

They spread

neglected

45 or

overlooked; the hair breaks off and quite large rings form. There is little irritation. The great difficulty with this disease is that themselves

showing

of it. Under these

sign

any

without

complaint

cats can be carriers of the

circumstances, should the cat be immune from the contagion, its presence will not be suspected until the cat has kittens which, in a few weeks,

develop

the lesions.

Treatment is

for

as

Mange (see

In view of the fact that carrier in in

a

case

there is

Cattery

an

a

cat

page can

37).

act

outbreak it is

as

a

essential

to wash every animal in the

place. Three baths at

intervals

weekly

suffice to clear the condition the

Cattery

and

everything

generally completely unless

with which the cat

may have been in contact has not been disinfected with 40 per cent Formaldehyde spray, or

fumigated. bathing

In

the

animal

the

solution

must

reach every part but care must be taken to prevent any getting into the eyes. The coat must not be rinsed but well dried and the cat

is or

kept in a warm room until the coat perfectly dry. Give the animal a warm drink meal before

it

isolation quarters where it must be confined for three weeks.

returning

The isolation quarters

to its

can

be

sprayed

while

46

OF

TREATMENT

the cat is

being

BY HOMOEOPATHY

CATS

bathed and dried but be

sure

evaporated and the spray has dried before returning the cat to these quarters. that the fumes have

It is advisable to nose

with

a

cover

handkerchief while

solution is very strong. Give one dose of

Sulphur

the mouth and

spraying 200

as

the

after each

bath.

SCURF

This is

or

DANDRUFF

form of Eczema, the cat has a dry skin and the dandruff or scurf is sometimes profuse. The

animal

grooming of

a

will

is

help

assistance.

The

out

of

and

a

condition.

change

trouble

Regular

of diet is also

may

be

due

to

worms.

As the skin scales with to make

sure

ringworm

it is advisable

that the trouble is

mere

debility

and not

incipient skin trouble. Sulphur given morning and evening for a few weeks will improve the animals general 6

condition. Natrum Muriaticum 6, to be given in the manner if worms are suspected as the

same

cause.

TREATMENT OF

BY HOMOEOPATHY

CATS

47

SPAYING This is the removal of the ovaries in cat. It can, at

any

when

also

age.

It

should

neutering males, performed done these commonly days

be

difficulty is

operation

day

to

removed.

day

beginning

cat is to have

the

the

two or three times a

before the

and for

a

few

scar to

glass

of

water)

return

stitches

have

after it.

days (i o drops

A little Calendula Lotion wine

birth to her

after her

week

a

home, she then has

the

giving

a

for about

Give Arnica 6

in

major one and the cat warm, quiet and carefully

operation be kept

watched

a

female

is

queen may have kittens. The

a

be

in

female is wanted only as a pet. It has performed when, for any reason, a

a

to

as

of 0 to

may be dabbed

on

the

promote rapid healing.

TEETH and TEETHING Kittens

start their first set of teeth very

and the milk teeth

are

complete

within

early a

few

48

BY ROMOEOPATHY

TREATMENT OF CATS

fourteen in the top twelve in the lower.

weeks. There

are

The second

teething begins

at

jaw

about

and

four

months and the permanent teeth, thirty in number, are generally all through by 6 to 7 months of age. At this time the kitten should be

from

infections

possible

suitably and helps when the

should be fed

meaty

bone

protected contagions. It sometimes a large kitten is changing

and

its teeth. A

a

kitten

healthy

usually gets through

teething

without any trouble but it is, nevertheless, trying time and it is, therefore, more easily

upset

both

mentally

and

physically

than at

other times. Some delicate kittens get very down during these months.

Any abrupt change

of environment

or

run

diet

at this time may cause convulsions but these when the permanent teeth are through

cease

(see under Fits,

page 29). Calcium Phos 6 given

day helps Older

kittens

cats

two or three times a

through

form tartar

the

on

teething period.

their teeth and this

should be

scraped off periodically by a Veterinary Surgeon. The cat’s breath becomes foul

and

an excess

of

tartar will cause

inflammation

of the gums; if this is very bad the cat will dribble and have difilcuhy in eating. The teeth

TREATMENT OF CATS BY HOMOEOPATHY

also get loose and should be extracted. Abscesses

decayed.

the face

on

are

49

All loose teeth

often due

to bad

in old cats the eye teeth get can be shortened by a Veterinary

and, times, long and they Surgeon if they cause trouble. After scaling, swab the mouth with Calendula Lotion (a teaspoon of the 0 to half a cup of water). teeth

at

over

TUBERCULOSIS This disease is very contagious from one cat to another and it would be very unwise to risk an

infected cat

running

around

anywhere

near

children.

definitely established, the cat is obviously ill, losing flesh, with chronic diarrhc a, a cough or a continued rise of temperature. The temperature may vary but a persistent reading of 1020 or over is very ominous. Once

is

a case

The disease

can

attack almost any organ and

frequently affected. In a fully developed case it is better to have the animal destroyed immediately. It is likely that many cats which are unthrifty the eyes

are

have

a

T.B. taint. In such cases, if the developed, a course of Bacitmum

disease has not

30, a dose once a week for a few weeks well arrest it and bring about a reaction may

TREATMENT OF

50

leading

CATS

BY IIOMOEOPATHY

improvement

to an

Meat unfit for human never

now

be fed to cats

subject

very

these, too,

can

be

raw.

It

in every way. consumption should seems

to the Avian a source

of

that birds

are

type of T.B. and

coitagion

to cats.

TUMOURS These

they

are

sometimes found in old

may be either benign or malignant. A veterinary examination will determine the variety.

The former latter may,

with

cats and

causes

at

a

little discomfort but the

late

stage,

cause

great pain

discharge of blood-stained pus and there is, generally, a rapid wasting away. Tumours may develop in any part of the body. Where there is a malignant growth and the animal is in pain it is much kinder to have the cat painlessly destroyed. Benign tumours of the mammary glands of queens often respond very nicely to the administration of Phytolacca 30, morning and evening a

for It is

a

few days.

fairly simple

to

distinguish

between

an

tumour. The former, though it when first noticed is painful to the may be hard

abscess and

a

touch, its appearance is sudden and development rapid, whereas with a tumour the development is slow. Further, an abscess in a cat

TREATMENT OF CATS

is

BY HOMOEOPATHY

generally accompanied by

a

51

rise of temperature.

VOMITING may be due to

Simple vomiting

for eating grass in order

a

to

cat’s propensity

get rid of

hair, which has upset its may be disregarded.

anything, such

as

digestion and it

frequently sick with no other indisposition. If this continues give Ipecacuanha 6, a few doses three times a day will soon give relief. It is easy to distinguish between simple vomiting and Infectious Enteritis or the kind Some cats

are

symptoms of

sometimes

seen

in

which the cat is

Simple

one

of the

cat Influenzas in

rapidly prostrated. generally due to a digestive

sickness is

disturbance and when the attack is for

over treat as

Indigestion (see page 33). subject to liver troubles and gastric complaints sometimes suffer, particularly at changes weather; they vomit and show mild catarrhal symptoms, lethargy or no inclination to

Cats of

all, there is

move at

temperature.

Majus 3 quickly. The

changes

at

A three

thirst and seldom any doses of Chelidonium

no

few

hourly

intervals

helps

very

should be protected from violent of temperature and kept in the warm

cat

TREATMENT OF CATS BY ROMOZOPATHY

52

until the symptoms pass. Where the symptoms weather a

give

Natrum

are worse

Suiph.

30

during damp day for

one a

few doses.

WORMS Most kittens and

cats

get

worms

occasionally

and

they may get rid of them or have them without causing any apparent harm. They

are

subject

to two

kinds of worms, the

round

worm and the tapeworm. The usual symptoms are irregular appetite, sometimes they are voracious and at other

times they refuse food; the coat is “Starey” and the cat remains thin. Sometimes the haw of the eye

showing

may

indicate

the

presence

of

worms.

Cats often vomit round For round

pilule

form

and later

repeated

worms

night a

give Chenopodium morning for a few

dose of Cina

one

in

and

worms.

200

which

0

in

weeks

can

be

week.

For

and

Tape worms give Filix Mas. 3X night morning for a few weeks and at the end

of the

period

one

In obstinate

dose of Filix Mas.

of

200.

Tape Worms, especially if accompanied by slimy, bloody motions, give Mercurius Corrosivus 6 morning and cases

BY H0MOEOPATHY

53

until the symptoms

are

TREATMENT OF CATS

evening for

a

week

or

alleviated. Natrum Phos

weeks

6x, morning

and

evening,

for

at a time corrects the acid condition conducive to worms.

WOUNDS Cats living natural lives, often get themselves In

cases

being

hit

of serious

by

a

give

cat

in

they one

all should, way

or another.

accidents

(such as Veterinary Surgeon as soon as possible as

street

car),

should examine the the

injured

as

a

injury may be far more serious than is apparent, but while awaiting this examination the cat Arnka Montana 6 every hour for

r

TREATMENT OF CATS

54 four

doses after which lengthen the between doses; this will help to allay the

or

period

BY HOMOEOPATHY

more

shock. Calendula Lotion

(one teaspoonful

of the 0

cup of water) is a first class dressing for all wounds, it inhibits the growth of microorganisms. to

half

a

For

punctured wounds such as bites and those by sharp-pointed instruments or splinters give Ledum 6 internally every two hours in the place of Arnica and externally apply Calendula Lotion (i o drops of the 0 in a wine glass of water). Hypericum Lotion (io drops of the 0 to a wine glass of water) is also excellent as an external remedy. For injured nerves, lacerations and crushed parts etc., where the pain is very great apply Hypericum Lotion (i o drops in a wine glass of water) externally and give Hypericum 6 internally made

every two hours. In bad cases do not

than

remove

the

dressing

more

in 24 hours but moisten it with the lotion when it becomes dry. once

GENERAL HINTS Cats

enjoy

a

varied diet.

They

have their

own

TREATMENT OF

preferences

CATS

BY HOMOEOPATHY

in the matter of

food,

some

milk, others do not. Some like fish others

55 like

prefer

meat.

It is always wise, when kitten

to

to avoid Cats

are

purchasing

a

exactly making any sudden change nervous

environment and

creatures

people

and the

and

or

in its diet.

change

of

is sufficient for them

to cope with during the first few days. An adult cat requires two meals a day,

of

cat

how it has been fed and

learn

morning

The morning feed may consist flakes soaked in hot milk and given when cool, or porridge and milk or

evening.

raw oat

to the cat

any of the breakfast cereals may be

The cat will

soon

show its

acceptable. preference. The

second meal should consist of rabbit, fish or meat and vegetables. Some cats like tinned cat

change. Meat consumption” should always

foods such as “Kit-E-Kat” as a

“unfit for human be well cooked.

Meals should be

given at regular times. feeding more frequently. Farex makes a good start to the day or

Kittens need with milk

Scotts’ Oats raw, soaked in hot milk and fed when cool. Meat or fish cut small for

Quaker

or

dinner. A drink of milk

possible

for

kittens)

for tea and

fish with well-cooked supper.

Lightly

grated

cheese

(Goats’ milk

more

vegetables

boiled eggs, milk are

is the best meat

or

mixed in for

puddings or acceptable changes. The

56

TREATMENT

CATS

BY HOMOEOPATHY

will have to be increased

amount

for

allow

OF

gradually

to

growth. clean water should be available at all

Fresh, times.

HOUSE TRAINING A

new

to

As

tray.

arrival

any sick cat which is confined the house must be given a sanitary

a

or

rule cats

are

clean creatures. A

good

queen will teach her kittens house manners and the use of the tray. A deep tray may suit an

adult ease

but kittens need shallow trays for getting in and out. Anything absorbent

cat

of

may be used in the tray; ashes probably the nicest for the

people be kept

or

peat

moss are

purpose; some dried earth. The tray must paper in the same place at all times and the or

use.

cat shown where it is; if it is moved the soil the original place. Trays must be

self

cat may

cleaned

use a regularly respecting dirty one. Enamel baking tins are very suitable as they are easy to keep clean. If a disinfectant is used, T.C.P., or a Pine disinfectant is pleasant as

and safe.

no

cat will

TREATMENT OF CATS

BY HOMOEOPATHY

57

GROOMING All cats should be kittens which

used

to it and

difficult

regularly groomed. Young groomed regularly soon get often enjoy it. Some cats are

are

to groom and in these cases it is better

to do a bit at a time and cease if the animal is

getting

too

attention

upset.

Long-haired

cats need more

than short-haired but both types need

regular grooming. Stiff bristled brushes

help

to remove a lot of

hair. Short-haired cats may be combed with a

fairly

fine comb

to remove any loose hairs

and

then well rubbed down with the bare hands a

or

silk handkerchief, this will give a good gloss enjoy it as it will be regarded

and the cat will as

petting. Eyes and

same

should be attended to at the

ears

time and small kittens should be watched

under the tail in their

as

they

sometimes have accidents

furry trousers.

EYES Kittens open their eyes about the tenth day after birth. As a rule they give no trouble but

occasionally they

stick and

This should

be

not

are

neglected;

troublesome. if

they look

58

TREATMENT

OF

CATS

BY HOMOEOPATHY

but stick

healthy

Calendula

be all that is necessary.

and

discharge (one teaspoon of salt

worse

then

smear

internally, second

or

little

only at night smear a Ointment along the lids, this

If, however, they get

matter bathe with

to

one

pint

with Calendula dose

one

third

of

of

If the

Ointment.

and

place

remedy

Saline

water)

Pulsatilla

day.

form, crush one of a tiny kitten.

may

and

Give,

30 every is in pilule

it under the tongue

GRASS Cats acts

having liberty

as an

emetic and

are

fond of grass, which

long-haired

cats seem to

mainly for that purpose as an aid in getting rid of hairs that they have swallowed. If a

use it

cat

is confined in

a

flat,

grass may be grown in

boxes for it.

OUT OF

CONDITION

Sometimes, for

apparent thin and fussy with their food no

reason or

the

may be increased. These symptoms

cats

get

appetite

are

sometimes

accompanied by loose, yellow stools and abdominal distension. Five drops of Alfalfa 0 is an excellent times a

day

for

tonic, given in food a

few weeks.

two or three

HOMOEOPATHY

BY

CATS

OF

TREATMENT

59

TEMPERATURE The normal temperature of a cat is 101.4. It is best to take it in the rectum though cats

frequently object the

arm or

to

but

leg

this. It

one

accurately taken there liable to slip, therefore, the

temperature

than the actual the

arm

or

be taken under

as

sure

that it is

the thermometer is

it is advisable

to be about one

reading

leg.

can

needs to be

to assume

degree

more

when it is taken under

In most animals it is wise to

take the temperature after it has been quiet for some time as excitement of any kind will sometimes cause a

over

rise in temperature. Any carefully watched.

reading

102° should be

FOODS FOR INVALIDS If invalid cats will it is of great at all times,

eat

anything during

sickness

Water should be available

help. they may take this voluntarily in preference to anything else. Slippery Elm Food is very good. Beaten up egg with a few drops of brandy or whisky is good in great weakness. So is Brand’s Essence. Sometimes

rabbit, a

a

or even

as

cat

will eat

meat, fish or appreciated and

raw

custard may be

sick animal may take sufficient

to

keep

it going.

6o

TREATMENT OF CATS BY HOMOEOPATHY

It is not necessary to recourse to forcible feeding for 48 hours but if food is refused after

quantity should be given Feeding liquid food through a hypodermic syringe with the needle removed is very easy and provided a cloth is put

this

period

a

small

about every two hours.

round the cat’s neck to prevent the food getting onto the cat itself, this method of feeding need disturb the animal very little. Provided that there are no gastric

symptoms

and the temperature is not very high, raw meat cut up small, pushed down the throat morning and

evening

will

starts to eat of its

keep own

the animal

accord.

going

until it

TREATMENT OF

BY 1{OMOEOPATHY

CATS

6i

GIVING MEDICINES

homoeopathic pilules are small and pleasant to take they are easier to administer to As

cats than other medicines.

Open

the throat and close the

carefully

drop the pill down mouth quickly. Watch

the cat’s mouth and

to be sure that it has been

ejecting pills

after

to have been swallowed and

they

some cats are

they appear

swallowed;

very skilful at

may Later be discovered in their beds. If a cat is particularly difficult (and

some

are), the pilules may be crushed and placed up the side of the mouth or dissolved in water and in this way or, if the animal is medicine can be given in the food.

given

eating,

the

POTENCIES In acute conditions the remedies must be

frequently until the cat gets relief. When there are signs that the symptoms are relieved or there is improvement, i.e., when the vomiting or diarrha stops (if that is the trouble), or the cat seems easier and appears to be sleeping, or assumes an easier attitude it given

more

62 is

TREATMENT OF CATS a

sign

BY HOMOEOPATHY

that the medicine is

WHILE

doing

IMPROVEMENT

its work and

CONTINUES

THERE IS NO NEED TO REPEAT THE DOSE. If the

is not

prescriber

sure

that the

remedy selected is the correct one it is advisable to keep to the lower potencies up to the sixth

(3x, 3, 4x, 4, 5X, 5, 6x and 6). The potency is denoted by the figure after the name of the remedy. The low

potencies work just as well but not so quickly as the higher potencies which work rapidly and deeply if correctly prescribed, but which may, if incorrectly used, cause complications. In acute diseases it is well

to

continue the

medicine for 24 to 48 hours, at increasing intervals, after the animal appears to be cured. Note the sign 0 means mother tincture and remedies marked in this are in

liquid form.

The author of this book has had

tablets cats

and

knoi

as

(also

these

in

are

special condition powder form) made for

recommended, they

SHEPPARD

HOMOEOPATHIC

CONDITION REMEDY

supplied by

RansIcy-Robinson

Research Laboratories Ltd., Durrington, Sussex.

Manor Parade,

are

3b

£1.50 About this book.

Homoeopathic remedies

are

-

ideal

medicines are pleasant to take,

for

they

treating sick cats. The safely given to the

can be

smallest kitten without distressing the animal, and no injections are necessary. Furthermore, there are no side-effects. Yet another advantage in treating cats by homoeopathy is that the pet’s owner can do something to give relief when a veterinary surgeon is not available, for instance, arnica can be given for shock in case of injuries. K. Sheppard lists a number of feline complaints, with symptoms, and the corresponding homoeopathic treatments. She also provides details of homoeopathic medicines for administration to cats before and after neutering and spaying operations there are useful hints on house training, grooming, and eye care. In addition,

The veterinary aspect of homoeopathy has received scant attention in the past, but these remedies are just as effective in animals as

they

Also available

are in humans.

by K. Sheppard

THE TREATMENT OF DOGS BY HOMOEOPATHY of The Treatment of Cats by Following publication Homoeopathy, K. Sheppard was asked to write a companion volume on dogs and this book is the result. It provides details of symptoms and homoeopathic treatments for canine troubles, including amaurosis (eye disease), apoplexy, mastitis, nephritis, ticks and ulcers.

HEALTH SCIENCE PRESS I

Church

Path, Saffron Walden, Essex, England

ISBN 085032 1204 Jacket design by Reg Boorer using a photograph by David Campbell