Why Turmeric Is Good For Dogs And Cats

If you love a good curry, then you’re probably familiar with bright, yellow turmeric. This plant is a relative of ginger, and like its cousin, it is known for its medicinal effects as well as its taste. Curcumin is the part of turmeric that gives it its signature yellow color and where many of its health benefits are believed to come from. That's why you may see the word curcumin used interchangeably with turmeric when researching this superfood and its possible benefits.

Turmeric has been used for centuries in traditional East Indian medicine. The turmeric roots are usually ground into a powder and taken internally or mixed into a paste and applied topically. People have been using turmeric for centuries to help alleviate discomfort, allergies, and heartburn. For years, people have also believed turmeric to improve one's memory. There are numerous studies that have been conducted that share more on turmeric's usage.

Turmeric is often used as a natural alternative in human medicine, but does it have any benefit for dogs and cats? Let’s get spicy! We’ll discuss the potential health benefits of turmeric for dogs and cats and how adding a little turmeric to their daily routine might be a good option for you.

Is Turmeric Really Safe For Dogs And Cats?

While certain plants, like lilies and tulips, aren’t safe for our pets, scientists have determined that this mighty plant substance, turmeric, is safe for our pets in small quantities.

Beyond safety, turmeric is believed to actually be good for our pets. Let’s check out what this powerhouse can do.

What Can Turmeric Do For Your Dog or Cat?

Many of the beliefs surrounding turmeric fall on its ability to support an anti-inflammatory response. Since many common conditions arise as a consequence of inflammation, it’s no wonder the usage of turmeric for dogs and cats has become wildly popular!

 

• Turmeric is widely known to be an anti-inflammatory. It may help provide some relief to dogs and cats with arthritis. If you have a dog or cat with joint stiffness, discomfort, or mobility issues, providing your pet with some supplemental support may be just the thing you need.

Mussel Mobility is a turmeric-based supplement that comes in powder form and can be added to your pet’s food. It is formulated to help maintain healthy joint movement and alleviate mobility discomfort associated with daily activity, aging, and ailments.

• Turmeric has also been used to support normal digestive function and ease the turmoil of an upset stomach. This soothing superfood may even help with the symptoms of diarrhea or IBS. Additionally, turmeric may assist in promoting gut health and supporting digestive enzymes.

A few drops of an oil containing turmeric, like our Calming Relief Oil, is a great daily supplement to support normal digestive function.

If you do choose to give your pet turmeric, do be cautious. The same properties that make turmeric a natural option for soothing the effects of diarrhea can cause constipation if you give your pet too much. That’s why the rule of thumb is: A little goes a long way!

• Turmeric is known to have antibiotic properties. The curcumin in turmeric is believed to act as an antibiotic, an anti fungal, and an antioxidant. In dogs and cats, it has been used to lessen the effects of dermatitis from fleas and seasonal allergies and is believed to take the itch away from granulomas.

If you are attempting to use turmeric as a natural option for a skin condition your pet is suffering from, try to keep its use internal, using a product like our Calming Relief Oil. Using ground turmeric externally on your pet’s skin can cause irritation or dye your pet a lovely shade of yellow!

• Turmeric has been used to heart health. Turmeric is believed to serve as a mild anticoagulant, which means it may help to reduce blood clots. Combined with its anti-inflammatory properties, this means that turmeric is a popular choice for pet parents looking for cardiovascular support for their dog or cat.

If your furry friend is getting a little older, try supplementing their diet with a few drops of Calming Relief Oil. 

• Turmeric may assist in lessening discomfort and inflammation while undergoing cancer treatment. If you are working with your veterinarian to combat cancer, talk to them about adding turmeric into your pet's regimen to help support their overall wellbeing.

• Turmeric is believed to help prevent worms and ease stomach upset and inflammation caused by worms and other intestinal parasites. 

How Can You Give Turmeric To Your Dog Or Cat?

Adding turmeric to your pet’s daily routine doesn’t need to be super complicated. There are recipes all over the internet that help you add this mighty superfood into your pet’s food or treats. Of course, be sure to have your veterinarian review any recipe you plan to use.

If you aren’t feeling like experimenting with cooking for your cat or dog, look for a supplement designed to be pet safe. Important reminder: Be very cautious when giving your cat or dog anything labeled for human consumption.  There are often sweeteners, flavorings and chemicals which are highly toxic to pets. Read that label first!

The supplements we make at Homescape Pets are safe for dogs and cats and combine organic turmeric with other natural ingredients like the green-lipped mussels found in our Mussel Mobility powder. Our Calming Relief Oil drops contain whole turmeric root powder mixed with hemp seed oil, which adds Omega 3’s and helps increase the bioavailability of the curcumin in the turmeric. You can safely combine any of our all-natural supplements to customize the perfect supplement for your pet. 

Again, always consult with your veterinarian before adding supplements to your pet’s diet. You will need to make sure there are no contraindications with any medications they may already be on. And you’ll also need to ensure that your pet does not have any conditions that may be worsened by the addition of turmeric. 

Remember, every pet is different, but turmeric is considered generally safe and effective for use in dogs and cats. If you think your pet might benefit from turmeric, work with your vet to develop a plan that will help keep your pet healthy and happy. 

Interested in checking out more pet-safe herbs? Don’t miss this comprehensive blog post!