There are a number of respiratory conditions that our animals can encounter, luckily offering herbs can relieve these symptoms. When we have animals that are around others of their own species, they become more vulnerable to catching respiratory illnesses. In this case, it’s a good idea to practice prevention using nutritive and immune supporting herbs.
It’s quite obvious when our animals have come down with a cough or persistent sneezing. When these symptoms become repetitive, it is best to consult with a holistic veterinarian to determine a diagnosis and narrow down the underlying condition.
In dogs, coughs and sneezes can be caused by the following:
- Upper respiratory tract infections such as kennel cough.
- Chest Infections
- Heart issues (often night time coughs)
- Airway irritations (dust, smoke, chemicals)
- Obstruction in the throat (like a piece of bone)
- Acid Reflux
In cats, coughs and sneezes can be caused by the following:
- Heart issues
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Asthma
- Parasitic infection
- Airway irritation
- Tooth root infections
In horses, coughs and sneezes can be caused by the following:
- Inhaled irritants
- Allergies from dust, pollen, mould or mites
- Infections
In small animals (like rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs etc..), coughs and sneezes can be caused by the following:
- Respiratory infections
- A dusty living environment
- Improper diet
It is important to understand the cause of coughs and sneezes in our animals in order to know which herbs would be best for optimal results.
When an infection is the cause of coughs and sneezes, immune supporting and nutritive herbs are the best choice. These herbs include:
- Echinacea (immune supportive)
- Marshmallow (immune supportive)
- Rosehip Seeds (nutritive)
- Spirulina (nutritive)
- Oats (nutritive)
- Parsley (nutritive)
- Nettles (nutritive)
- Astragalus (for a weakened immune system)
Coughing and sneezing can lead to a very distressed and exhausted animal, this is why it is very important that we address these symptoms promptly. However, even though we want to take care of the coughing immediately, we do not want to suppress this symptom either. Coughing helps the lungs clear and expel microbes from the body. Herbs will help them cough more effectively by using soothing expectorants such as:
- Marshmallow
- Mullien
- Plantain
- Coltsfoot (short-term)
- Elecampane (short-term)
On the other hand, if coughing becomes out of control to the point that it is keeping them awake at night, if they have become weak and or physically exhausted, a herbal cough suppressant like wild cherry bark glycerite may be necessary. As a glycerite, it will also help to soothe their irritated throat as well.
Does your animal have a dry or a damp, in the chest type of cough? This is also important to know because moistening, mucilage herbs are best for dry coughs. These can worsen a more damp type of cough which is why it is best to go with:
- Golden rod
- Coltsfoot
When it comes to sneezing, herbs that decrease inflammation and decongest the upper respiratory tract are useful. These herbs include:
- Golden Rod
- Golden Seal
- Nettle
- Marshmallow
- Eyebright
- Plantain
- Raspberry Leaf
- Slippery Elm
Herbal Teas
We speak a lot about adding herbs to our animals food, in this case creating a herbal tea in this situation can be more effective for coughs and sneezes if your animal is open to it. Herbal teas tend to help with symptom relief while tinctures or glycerites are more effective in stimulating and supporting immunity.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy, which is inhaling vaporized molecules into their airways. This is a veery safe form of utilizing herbal medicine. If your animal finds the aroma unpleasant, remove from their area immediately. An aromatic herbal steam placed where the animal is resting can help tremendously through inhalation. Be sure to place the bowl out of reach for safety’s sake. You can use essential oils by Young Living or high quality dried up herbs. These herbs include:
- Sage
- German Chamomile
- Lavender
- Elecampone
- Lemon Balm
- Mint
Here we have discussed some wonderful herbal strategies to help your animals with coughing and sneezing.
Consult with a holistic veterinarian or holistic practitioner to lead you in the right direction. If you feel uncertain, holistic practitioners have the expertise and wisdom to direct you to top quality herbal products for your animal. Do not use any remedies if you are not certain which and how to use them, it is best to work with a practitioner. This blog is for educational purposes only.
If you are interested in a consultation from Maria for your animal, feel free to learn more here.
