In their natural habitat, cats would have daily access to various herbs and plants, allowing them to walk through them, roll on, rub against and occasionally chew on them a little. This behaviour is entirely natural for cats, and helps them to take care of themselves, but domestic environments often lack these opportunities, which can be stressful. Creating a ‘herb garden’ for your cat is a simple way to fulfil this natural instinct, providing instant stress relief and offering restorative and medicinal benefits. It’s an excellent form of environmental enrichment, especially for indoor cats, and a wonderful way to keep on top of your cat’s health & emotional wellbeing regularly.

 

 

Major benefits of giving your cat access to a herb garden:

Provides environmental enrichment- a herb garden allows your cat to investigate and explore a variety of herbs and flowers. This activity offers mental stimulation and engages your cat’s natural curiosity.

Medicinal & healing effects of the herbs – herbs offer medicinal and healing effects, and each cat is unique in selecting those that suit their current needs. Your cat intuitively knows which herbs or flowers will benefit their health and emotional wellbeing. Each herb possesses distinct therapeutic properties; for instance, a cat recovering from trauma might choose yarrow for its profound healing and trauma releasing qualities.

Play time –  this becomes engaging for your cat when they can select the herbs to interact with, often leading to playful behaviour like rolling around on them. This process can be a delightful and enjoyable experience, allowing them to choose the herbs they need.

Stress reduction – providing your cat with a selection of herbs and flowers can significantly reduce stress and release tension in their body. By allowing your cat the freedom to choose and interact with these natural elements, you can support their physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.

 

 

The easiest way to give your cat access to herbs, no matter where you live is to make a ‘herb garden’ with a selection of dried herbs and/or flowers.

 

 

How to create a ‘herb garden’ for your cat:

 

You can create a herb garden by simply laying down a blanket or towel in a safe and enjoyable space for your cat. Place each of the dried herbs or flowers that you believe will benefit your cat in each corner of the towel. Your cat is then free to interact with the herbs, intuitively selecting those they need through the process of natural self-medication, addressing mental, emotional and physical symptoms.

 

Signs of a positive response – remember every cat is unique, and they may choose to rub, roll, nibble, lick or sniff each aromatic, or just choose to lie there enjoying the fragrance and processing the healing benefits.

Signs of no interest – sniffs and walks away, this is ok and can simply mean they might not be needing those particular herbs/flowers, or they may choose to go back to the herb garden at another time.

 

Important top tips:

  • You can leave dried herb gardens accessible to your cat daily, ensuring regular checks to replenish or remove herbs as needed. If a specific herb or flower remains untouched for about a week, your cat might not need it currently, so consider swapping it for another option.
  • Place the herb mat in a quiet area away from household activity, where you know your cat enjoys spending time.
  • In a multi-cat household, ensure each cat has their own herb garden.
  • Allow your cat uninterrupted time to enjoy the herbs and flowers, whether they prefer your company or solitude—observe and cater to their preferences.
  • Refresh the herbs every few days by removing old ones and adding fresh ones to keep them topped up.
  • Never force herbs or flowers onto your cat, as they intuitively select what suits their individual needs.
  • When purchasing dried herbs or flowers, ensure they are 100% natural, human-grade, untreated, and free from added perfumes. This is important as added chemicals can be harmful to your cat’s health.  Opt for organic options whenever possible.

 

Some dried herb 🌿 or flower 🌸 suggestions are:

Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis) is an effective pain reliever, sedative, and muscle relaxant. It is particularly beneficial for fearful, anxious, or aggressive behaviours, as well as over-grooming or stress.

Catnip leaves (Nepeta cataria) aid digestion and have a stimulating effect, making them ideal for anxious, restless, or stressed cats. They are also helpful for withdrawn cats and those who could use a bit of fun!

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) aids in releasing energy associated with physical or emotional scars and past trauma. It serves as an excellent digestive tonic and is beneficial for allergies, inflammation, skin issues, urinary infections, wounds, sprains, or strains.

Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is effective for various digestive problems and helps animals establish clear boundaries, making it suitable for those who are defensive of their personal space or exhibit irritability.

Rose buds (Rosa damascena) help release energy associated with emotional wounds, fostering self-love and receptivity in the heart. They have a powerful impact on the hormonal system and are beneficial for postnatal recovery. Rose buds are ideal for healing loss of trust, resentful anger, and hearts closed due to past trauma or mistreatment, as well as for addressing repressed emotions and sadness.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is emotionally uplifting and comforting, making it effective for depression and boosting self-confidence. It is also beneficial for bruises, dry skin, fungal infections, wounds, ulcers, and is particularly helpful for nervous or timid cats.

 

If you have any uncertainties or questions, feel free to get in touch with an animal wellness professional, like myself who would be more than haply to offer support.

 

 

Looking for Personalised Holistic Support for Your Cat?

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By Felicity Stenson | Earthly Animal Healing