Cat Cancer Diets
Veterinarian Reviewed on April 1, 2014 by Dr. Janice Huntingford
Cat Cancer Diets
It is sad when your valued cat receives a Cat Cancer diagnosis, there are treatments to consider and the devastating possibility that your cat may not be with you much longer. While you are discussing treatment options for your cat, you could look for dietary options to aid their recovery and offset the effects of treatment.
Cats and Cancer
You should understand that when you are talking about cancer diets for cats, they will have to be tailored somewhat based upon the type of cancer that your cat has. There really is no ‘one diet fits all’ when it comes to cancer treatment. For example if you have a cat suffering from liver cancer it is not advisable to give them large amounts of protein, even though that is the generic recommendation. Keep this in mind as you search for a good cancer diet for cats, or any animal for that matter. That being said here are a few guidelines to keep in mind for creating a cancer diet for your cat:
• Fiber is important for proper digestion and bowel function
• Cat Antioxidants are an essential supplement for any animal undergoing cancer treatment as they address the problem of free radicals
• Limit carbohydrate intake
• Increase proteins from raw chicken, fish or other raw meats slowly
• Grate or food process various uncooked vegetables such as tomatoes, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots and Romaine lettuce along with raw egg
• Adding Essential fatty acids
• Liquid cold pressed flax seed oil
Cancer fighting herbal supplements
There are a variety of cancer fighting herbal supplements available to add to your cat’s diet to help give an added bonus and aid in recovery and treatment. These are the most common herbs used to treat cancer in cats and have been used for centuries. Only use them if you know what dosage and quantity of each herb or use a product that is premixed.
• Burdock: Used to treat flaky, oily and inflammatory disorders of the skin
• Sheep’s Sorrel: Aids in treating internal hemorrhages in the stomach
• Slippery Elm: Long used for intestinal and digestive tract issues it has lubricating and astringent properties to aid in swallowing and moving toxins out of the body
• Chinese Rhubarb: Colon supporting herb also aids in salivary and gastric flow in a safe and expelling manner
• Vitamins: A, B complex, C, E and K
• Calcium, Magnesium, Selenium and Sodium supplements
• Wheat sprout, Barley and Alfalfa Grass
Conclusion
The goal of a cancer diet for cats is to boost the immune system, encourage proper bodily functions and keep them at a healthy weight while they fight the disease. Many times this process will be complicated by the type and location of the cancer. For example, a cat with mouth cancer may find eating to be difficult. Talk to your veterinarian about your cat’s condition and the best possible diet and treatment options.
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Our Expert

Janice Huntingford, DVM, has been in veterinary practice for over 30 years and has founded two veterinary clinics since receiving her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph. She has studied extensively in both conventional and holistic modalities. Ask Dr. Jan