AYURVEDA FOR CATS AND DOGS

BY LAURA WILLENBRING (SHE/HER)

Ayurveda, the science of life, has been taking care of the welfare and health of animals for thousands of years. Many of the Ayurvedic principles encouraging balance for people can also apply to our pets. It complements Western medicine for its focus on body-based harmony and imbalance prevention, as well as support during disease recovery.

Historical Reference

Pashu Ayurveda, the veterinary science branch of Ayurveda, features further specialization for animals who play a significant role in the culture: Ashwa Ayurveda (for horses), Gaja Ayurveda (for elephants), Go Ayurveda (for cows), plus many more. The Shalihotra Samhita, considered the primary Ayurvedic veterinary text, includes animal focused care using principles, herbal remedies, and care practices adapted from the human side. Other classical writings such as Charaka Samhita, the Matsya Purana, and Garuda Purana also include references to veterinary care.

Modern Day Application

While a majority of the historical writings relate to animals of agricultural significance, we can still apply Ayurvedic principles to our companion animals. Understanding our pets in a state of balance (prakrit) or imbalance (vikruti) utilizing tridoshic theory offers a customized approach to wellness and supports a sattvic life.

Vata

Vata dosha relates to the elements of Air and Ether. Qualities include dry, cold, light, mobile, clear, rough, irregular and subtle. Vata is the kinetic energy in the body and nervous system, and controls bodily movement. Imbalances can look like neurological disorders, vomiting, diarrhea, and anxiety conditions. Preventing imbalances might include warming cooked diets, including beef or pork, slowly introducing anything “new,” and interacting with your pet from an energetically grounded place.

Pitta

Pitta dosha relates to the elements of Fire and Water. Qualities include slightly oily, hot, intense, light, fluid, sour/malodorous, mobile, and liquid. Pitta governs digestion, absorption, assimilation, nutrition, metabolism, and body temperature. Imbalances may manifest as obsessive behaviors, fighting tendencies, or inflammatory conditions. Preventing imbalances can be accomplished by utilizing a cooling diet, such as white fish or turkey, calming practices of routine, and giving our driven pets “jobs” to do through training, sport events, and social play.

Kapha

Kapha dosha relates to the elements of Water and Earth. Qualities include oily, cold, heavy, stable, viscous, smooth, and dense. Kapha controls body stability, structure, and lubrication. Imbalances may manifest as respiratory problems, allergies, tendencies towards weight gain, and lethargy. Preventing imbalances can include exercising consistently and utilizing fiber rich foods such as cooked pumpkin or boiled sweet potato, while avoiding heavily processed foods and treats.

*Questionnaires offer a snapshot into the life of your pet. Interpret with gentleness and curiosity rather than as an absolute, as pets can be affected by seasons, lunar events, weather of the day, or even the stress level of their pet parent!

By utilizing the wisdom of Ayurveda, we can make better decisions about our pet’s care. We can utilize the rich history plus modern day understandings to invite a preventive and integrative approach to pet wellness. The value of knowing and practicing Ayurveda not just for ourselves but also for our pets allows us to align with our nature to live sattvic lives full of vitality and vibrancy. +