• Herbal remedies help cats too.cat image by Darren Ager from Fotolia.com
  
  For centuries, herbal remedies have helped people overcome a variety of medical problems. Today, cat owners employ the same techniques to assist cats with their medical needs. Herbal remedies help cats with common medical problems such as stomach problems, ear mites, hairballs and more. Herbal remedies save time and money for the owner and the side effects are usually minimal. In the event of a major medical condition however; always contact a veterinarian before beginning any herbal remedy.
  
  

Aloe

• When cats come home with wounds from fighting, or are having stomach problems, it can become very frustrating for the owner. Aloe can help with both of these ailments. When the juice is squeezed out of the plant, 1/2 ml of juice can be dropped into the mouth of the cat or into the food twice a day. This may relieve stomach pains caused by various bowel problems. To treat cats with wounds, simply rub the aloe onto the affected area.
  
  

Echinacea

• Boosting the immune system for cats is important. Echinacea has been used for centuries to boost the immune system of people and is now being used to treat cats as well. When used in cats, studies have shown when a drop is placed in the cat's food, it helps to boost the immune system as well as reduce healing time for upper respiratory infections. Using it as a topical antibiotic, it reduces healing time for wounds.
  
  

Calendula

• Calendula can be used either topically or internally for cats. Topically, this herb can help with cuts, scrapes and other injuries. This herb may be a good anti-inflammatory for cats as well to facilitate healing. When used internally, it can help the cat with ulcerative colitis, or stomach ulcers. In addition, Calendula can be diluted to work as an eye or ear wash to prevent ear mites.