The Moggy’s Medicine Cabinet: Essential Home Remedies for Kiwi Cat Carers

When your feline friend is feeling under the weather, a dash to the vet isn’t always necessary. With a well-stocked home pharmacy, you can often provide first-aid for minor ailments. Here’s your guide to creating a proper cat care kit, Kiwi style.

The Basics:

1. Sterile saline solution Brilliant for cleaning wounds or flushing eyes. Cheaper than a flat white and just as essential.
2. Hydrogen peroxide (3%) For inducing vomiting, but only under veterinary guidance. Don’t go playing doctor on your own!
3. Activated charcoal Absorbs toxins in emergencies. Keep it on hand, like an umbrella in Wellington.
4. Pet-friendly antiseptic Cleaning cuts and scrapes. Choose one that won’t sting, or you’ll have a cat-astrophe on your hands.
5. Sterile gauze and self-adhering bandages For wrapping wounds. Get the pet-specific kind, or you’ll be in a right pickle trying to keep it on.

Digestive Distress:

6. Hairball remedy A must-have, unless you fancy finding furry surprises on the carpet.
7. Probiotics Sorted for diarrhoea. Look for feline-specific ones; your cat won’t appreciate sharing your kombucha.
8. Pumpkin puree Nature’s remedy for both constipation and diarrhoea. Pure pumpkin, mind, not the pie filling!

Skin and Coat Care:

10. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements For a coat shinier than a new penny. Fish oil is ideal, but mind the smell!
11. Aloe vera gel Soothing for minor skin irritations. Use the pet-safe variety; the stuff for humans can be dodgy.

Calming Aids:

12. Bach Rescue Remedy Pet For stressful situations. It’s like a cuppa for cats, but without the caffeine jitters.
13. Catnip Nature’s feline stress-buster. Use sparingly, or you’ll have a loopy cat on your hands.

Parasite Prevention:

14. Flea comb Essential for detection and removal. Regular use keeps the fleas at bay better than a Kiwi’s jandals keep the sand off their feet.
15. Natural flea repellent Try a mix of apple cider vinegar and water. It’s not a silver bullet, but it helps keep the little blighters at bay.

Extras:

16. Eyedropper or oral syringe For administering liquids. Easier than trying to pour medicine down a reluctant cat’s throat.
17. Digital thermometer For checking temperature. The ear type is less intrusive than the other option!
18. Styptic powder Stops bleeding from minor cuts or torn nails. A lifesaver when you’ve been overzealous with the nail clippers.

Remember, this kit isn’t a substitute for proper veterinary care. If your cat’s acting more out of sorts than a penguin in the Sahara, it’s time to ring the vet. Keep emergency numbers handy, including your local after-hours clinic. Store your kit in a cool, dry place, out of paw’s reach. Check expiry dates regularly; you don’t want to be caught short in an emergency. With these essentials on hand, you’ll be well-prepared for minor mishaps. Your cat may not thank you (they’re cats, after all), but you’ll have the peace of mind knowing you’re ready for whatever furry drama comes your way. Now, if only there was a remedy for 3 am zoomies!