Applied zoopharmacognosy allows animals, in this case cats, to independently select remedies on their own. It also takes some of our time and attention in observing how they respond to the variety of remedies. If you know your herbs well, it may even give you a clue as to what your cat may be dealing with at the present moment. For example, a cat that selects passionflower may indicate a bought of stress and the animal may need something to calm their nerves. They may rub against a certain plant or lie on the remedy. It is interesting to note that wild cats have been observed doing the same behaviour as our domesticated kitties! When they rub against the plant, it releases the volatile oils which would be the “essential oil” from the aromatic plants. Cats sure know what they’re doing!
As a cat parent or caregiver it’s important to know that cats are very sensitive to the effects of these volatile oils aka essential oils. So when you are offering essential oils and aromatic herbs to your cat, less is more. Zoopharmacognosy is not just for treating ailments, it is also wonderful for their mental stimulation. Cats get bored if we don’t provide stimuli for them which can be detrimental to their mental, emotional, spiritual and physical health and happiness. That being said, it is highly recommended to leave some catnip and valerian around the house and or garden at the very least. It is amazing to observe how they respond to zoopharmacognosy. Just by inhaling the volatile oils causes positive physiological changes in them, they enter the bloodstream through inhalation and circulate throughout the body. The cats will return often to the essential oil scented item or area for another dose.
When applying zoopharmacognosy it is required that their remedy garden be placed where they feel comfortable and safe, a place they can leave if they have had enough. For example, a room, a pen or large animal crate. This may also be ideal especially if there is a scent of a herb or essential oil the cat doesn’t like, they are free to walk away. When creating your remedy garden it helps to be aware of what cats generally are fond of, such as:
- Mints
- Hydrosols
- Valerian
- Rose
- Barley Grass
- Seaweed
- Clays
Introduce remedies in phases, start with hydrosols, then fresh or dried herbs and herb powders, then essential oils (can base your selection of oils on their reaction to the herbs you presented), then carrier oils and infused carrier oils and finally any other remedies like clays.
You must gain the ability to accurately detect a cat’s positive reaction to remedies, these include:
- Repeated sniffing of the remedy or the air around it.
- A change in breathing patterns.
- Licking the air or remedy.
- Nostril twitching.
- Cheek puffing
- Standing still.
- Blinking, squinting or eye closure.
- Purring.
- Playfulness, stretching or any movement.
- Yawning.
- Grooming.
Cats are sure to let you know when they have had enough self-selection. They will stop showing interest or settle down quietly. Take note of all the remedies they responded well to, this will help you know what to work with your cat.
Essential Oils
Aromatherapy can be tricky when it comes to application, thankfully inhalation alone works beautifully with great success on cats. You can apply the selected essential oil onto your hands, rub them together and slowly approach your cat or let them come to you. When the cat stops, don’t move any closer as we need to respect the range of inhalation they are comfortable with. After witnessing positive reactions from your cat, you can then consider offering this essential oil in their environment or space.
Add diluted drops (1-2% of essential oil to a carrier oil or water) to a cloth, toy, piece of paper, cardboard or wood. Your cat will then be free to approach the volatile oil when she/he desires.
REMEMBER TO NERVER APPLY ESSENTIAL OILS NEAT DIRECTLY ON A CAT’S FUR COAT.
Fresh Or Dried Herbs
If a cat responds positively to fresh or dried herbs, you can place these in their environment where they can rub against, roll in or lie on when they feel the need.
Hydrosols
Some cats may be more drawn to hydrosols that you can spray onto your hands and allow them to inhale. You will get a cue from them if they would like you to rub your hands on their fur with the floral waters. You can do this with herbs as well by making a herbal tea, allowing to cool and using the same way.
In conclusion, you must pay close attention to your cat and be mindful of what they need and are drawn to when it comes to offering zoopharmacognosy to your pussy cat.