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herbs |
When
it comes to cooking with herbs, most of us will probably suit the herbs to the
meal and/or other ingredients in the meal. And while the combinations of
tasteful herb pairings with meals (and herbs with other herbs for that matter)
is practically endless, there are some combinations that just don't cut it for a
discerning palette or weak stomach. For example, adding ground cloves to
broccoli and cheddar soup just doesn't seem right does it? And for some people,
any cayenne whatsoever is too much cayenne.
And just as it is necessary to experiment with herbs when we are cooking for
ourselves, if you are seeking to give your pets herbs in their food, you will
need to do some trial and error. What's that you say, herbs for your pets? I
know it may sound strange at first to give your dog or cat something that
borders on being "people food", especially when we are so accustomed to giving
our pets the same bowl of dry and canned pet food day after day. Well, if you
stop to think about it, our domesticated companions come from the wild, where
yes, their ancestors ate herbs growing in the wild. A great example are dogs
natural instinct to eat grass for soothing an upset stomach.
So yes, it is great for your pet's health to mix up some herbs in their food.
Or, you can even bake up some herbed pet treats. Those pet owners who do so
advise to start off with small doses of herbs and gradually introduce your pet
to the often distinct flavors of herbs. All in all, as long as you don't get too
salty, sweet or smoky with homemade treats, even the most finicky of cats wont
turn their nose away.
If you are wondering about what herbs will work best to treat specific
conditions for pets, think of it as if you were treating yourself. In the same
way that valerian root or chamomile will help to soothe the nerves and induce
sleep in humans, these same herbs work great for hyperactive pets who need to
slow down. Other great examples are garlic for worms, calendula for skin
problems and hair loss, mullein for breathing problems, eyebright and bilberry
for good eyesight, Echinacea and goldenseal for infections and yarrow tincture
or eucalyptus oil for fleas.
Dandelion root, cleavers, basil, oregano, thyme, cayenne, ginger and cinnamon
are other common herbs that many pet owners have had success with. Not all herbs
should be given as daily supplements (like goldenseal), but of those that can,
be sure to use small doses when mixing herbs with pet food or treats. Start off
with very little and keep it to a minimum.
Author: Ry
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