Holistic Cat

May 15, 2015

Holistic care addresses the whole patient, including diet, environment, behavior, and presenting medical conditions. Mash (The Holistic Dog) practices veterinary surgery and complementary medicine in England. In this guide, she introduces facets of integrative medicine specifically intended for felines. This focus is important, as cats' bodies process the chemical compounds in some herbal and other natural remedies differently from dogs' and humans' bodies. Mash begins with overviews of complementary practices such as homeopathy, herbal medicine, and acupuncture. Some information concerning behavior and home care may conflict with advice that U.S. readers hear from their veterinarians (e.g., the book's perspective that felines are better with outdoor access). Readers expecting how-to information will most enjoy practicable sections, such as those covering diet and the "Tellington TTouch" method. The text-heavy guide would have benefited from more illustrations showing cat body language and certain medical conditions. Some of the text, too, repeats in different sections and would have been easier to digest in cohesive chapters. VERDICT For readers who want a starting point for the basics and strengths of integrated feline veterinary care.--Meagan Storey, Virginia Beach

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