Millennials are a generation of pet parents. A recent survey found that 76% of 20-38-year-olds currently have a pet. Millennials are more likely than other generations to pamper their pets, think of their pets as children, and spend a lot of time with them.
Many Millennials are also switching to more natural ways to successfully promote the health and wellness of their pet.
10 Natural Ways to Keep Your Pet Healthy and Happy
Disclaimer: None of the following natural remedies should replace the care and treatment given by a veterinarian. Always speak to a vet before administering the following supplements.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar: For Urinary Tract Infection
Apple cider vinegar is one of those cure-alls for humans that also seems to translate to pets. A teaspoon of apple cider vinegar can help with urinary tract infections, tear and food stains around eyes and mouth, treat fleas, and aid in reducing high temperatures in sick dogs.
2. Catnip: For Anxiety
Catnip works on both cats and dogs, but it produces the opposite effect on your pup. Instead of feeling more energetic, catnip calms hyperactive dogs and dramatically reduces anxiety.
Pet parents will give their dogs catnip before a flight to calm their nerves and help them sleep.
3. CBD Oil: For Wellness and Pain
CBD oil made for your dog could be especially beneficial for pups experiencing anxiety, seizures, skin conditions, pain, and inflammation. CBD may also help with depression, glaucoma, appetite loss, and sleeplessness, but more research is needed to confirm.
4. Chamomile: For Stress
Next time your dog or cat experiences bouts of hyperactivity or stress (which is usually vocalized by howling, barking, or loud meowing), put a chamomile tea bag in their water. Not only will the tea calm their nerves, but it can also help with dry skin and pet dander.
5. Echinacea: For Infections
In healthy pets, echinacea is excellent for treating infections of all kinds but don’t go overboard. Administer droplet amounts based on weight (i.e., 7 drops for cats and 3 drops for hamsters or mice). Warning: Do not give echinacea to pets who have autoimmune disorders.
6. Ginger: For Upset Stomachs
Ginger works similarly as it does for humans. It calms most pets' upset stomachs, especially dogs, as they age and start to produce more gas. If gas persists, consider changing your pet's diet. A few small cubes of ginger can also reduce nausea, vomiting, and coughing.
7. Glucosamine: For Arthritis
Glucosamine is a natural compound found in cartilage that can help reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in pets. Dogs that are prone to hip dysplasia should take this supplement daily to reduce the likelihood that they’ll develop chronic joint or hip problems.
8. Licorice Root: For Allergies
Cats who eat licorice root could see a reduction in allergy symptoms that may be due to seasonal allergies or food. Licorice root can also help cats get over respiratory infections and reduce arthritis-related pain. Licorice root is poisonous to dogs and many other animals.
9.Olive Oil: For Immunity
When used sparingly, olive oil can be used as a multipurpose supplement for dogs that promotes improved immunity and healthy weight loss. Olive oil can also lead to healthy skin, a shinier coat, and better cognitive development. Only use olive oil once to twice a week.
10. Peppermint: For Car Sickness
Mint is a well-known cure for upset stomachs, nausea, and gas, but sucking on a peppermint leaf can help dogs relieve their car sickness. Never feed cats peppermint or put peppermint oil in an infuser, as it could cause them to feel sick, depressed and even cause liver damage.
