Using a Holistic Approach for Pets with Cancer

Cancer is a disease that seems to be affecting more and more pets, especially older dogs and cats.  Many vets believe that a poor diet and increased exposure to chemicals and other environmental pollutants have led to an increase in feline and canine cancers.

Symptoms of Cancer in Dogs and Cats

There are several symptoms that may indicate the possibility of cat or dog cancer:

• Appetite loss
• Weight loss
• Chronic lameness
• Abnormal masses that persist or grow
• Difficulty breathing, eating, urinating, or defecating
• Bleeding or discharge
• Offensive odor coming from any body opening.

Natural Remedies for Cats or Dogs with Cancer

Many animals respond well to conventional therapies like chemotherapy and radiation, but the related side effects, quality of life and long term prognosis all need to be considered when looking at treatment options. Holistic treatments are often used along with conventional treatments to reduce the toxic effects of chemo drugs and radiation. They help mobilize the immune system to support the body itself. Nutrition, supplements and acupuncture are all part of a holistic approach to healing dogs and cats with cancer.

Nutrition

Good nutrition is the foundation for building a strong immune system. Most commercial pet food is very high in carbohydrates and is generally too much for a pet's low activity levels. Carbohydrates are much cheaper for pet food companies and are often used as fillers. Cancer cells use carbohydrates as their main energy source, leaving a pet with even poorer quality nutrition.A high protein, low carbohydrate, moderate fat diet should be offered to give the most optimal nutrition for your pet's health.

Nutritional Supplements

Supplements containing vitamins and herbs are also key for whole body support. Often during chemotherapy or radiation therapy, side effects cause loss of appetite, lethargy and suppress the white blood cell counts. Immune supplements can help pets recover from treatment faster and with more energy.

There are compounds in some herbs that have been studied and found to stimulate specific immune cells in the body that attack and destroy cancer cells. This often results in a more favorable outcome for the pet's overall quality and length of life. Look for these herbs:

• Astragalus - Studies have shown that it helps to restore immune system functioning and suppress tumor growth in cancer patients.
• Echinacea - Benefits immune functioning and as a tonic for the lymphatic system.
• Ashwagandha - Has anti-tumor properties that can help prevent or slow the development of tumors.
• Milk Thistle - A widely researched herb that has been shown to restore liver functioning. Milk thistle contains silymarin, a powerful antioxidant that helps in detoxifiying the liver. This herb is often recommended to counteract the harmful effects of prescription drugs and vaccinations.
• Reishi Mushrooms - Enhance immune modulators and inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
• Selenium - An antioxidant that protects cell membranes and slows down the hardening of tissues due to oxidation.