More and more people are turning to complementary medicine for themselves. As they realize the scope and power of these practices, they begin to consider using alternatives for their cats. It's tempting to think we can experiment on our pets with these therapies, but holistic medicine is still medicine and our cats may react very strongly.

There are many qualified holistic veterinarians throughout the country who can be of service for people looking for alternative therapies for their cats. There are several directories listing holistic veterinarians and their specialties online. If there isn't a practitioner in your area, some holistic vets are willing to do phone consultations.

While many holistic veterinarians have studied several modalities, typically their practices tend to run to one form of complementary services. Some do acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine, others may do more nutritional supplements and still others practice homeopathy.

Cats tend to respond well to the subtle mechanics of complementary medicine. Sometimes they seem a bit frightened by things, but often talking to the cat and explaining what is going on (to the best of your knowledge) can calm and settle the cat. In general, the holistic experience is far less stressful for them than the traditional experience. Holistic vets typically want to see the cat move in their office and watch their behaviors.

Holistic vets, like their human counterparts, are trained to diagnose through observation. As the cat settles into the office while its owner and the vet discuss the problem, it can wander around and explore. How bold, friendly or shy the cat acts can tell a holistic practitioner a great deal about the cat's constitution and will help in creating a treatment.

When working with a holistic practitioner, it's important to become a good observer of your cat. They may change their whole way of looking at your cat's disease by some small observation that an owner makes about what is normal behavior for the cat. Homeopathic vets, especially, are interested in the details of a cat's daily life. They are also very interested in how these things change as they choose remedies.

It may be tempting to think that an herbal formula given to you for your own use by your holistic practitioner will be safe for you cat. Chances are, it is. It probably won't be helpful. Herbal treatments need to be based on the weight and metabolism of the person (or cat) taking it. A veterinarian is the practitioner of choice for determining dosage for a cat. Cats metabolize herbs and medications differently than humans and so it isn't just a matter of determining a dosage based on a ten pound human. Additionally, there are medications that are safe for humans that are not safe for cats. This is true of herbal remedies as well.

Our cats are important to us. If there is a health problem that is making you think you need something other than what traditional medicine can offer, don't cut corners. Find a veterinarian who is qualified to make a diagnosis and create a solid treatment plan. It could mean your cat's life. It will certainly offer you peace of mind.