Table of Contents
Introduction
You already know about the benefits of Manuka honey for you. But did you know that this beneficial honey is also good for your pets? Dogs, cats, birds, and horses can safely use Manuka honey and can benefit from the honey’s natural healing properties. In this article, we will explore the various ways in which Manuka honey can be beneficial for your pets, including its wound healing properties, gut health benefits, skin soothing effects, and antioxidant properties. We will also discuss the different ways in which you can use Manuka honey for your pets and provide some important precautions to keep in mind. So, let’s dive in!
Wound Healing Properties of Manuka Honey
When it comes to wound healing, Manuka honey is known for its powerful properties. Its natural antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties make it an effective treatment for wounds, burns, sores, ulcers, and infections in animals.
A University of Sydney study found that wounds in horses treated with Manuka honey UMF 20 healed faster than when treated with generic honey, demonstrating the powerful wound healing properties of Manuka. In fact, many pet owners have experienced the healing effects of Manuka honey firsthand. Rachel, a satisfied customer, shared her experience with using Manuka honey on her horse’s wound: “We used the Manuka honey level on one of our horses who had a bad hoof wound after cutting it open. We had to do bandage changes every 2-3 days for 3 months and all we used on the wound was this Manuka honey, we took photos every time to see the progress and even the vet could not believe how well the wound healed. Can’t recommend this honey enough, it is a staple in our first aid kit for us and our animals.”
Gut Health Benefits of Manuka Honey
Manuka honey is not only good for external wounds but also for internal health. It is a strong prebiotic, which means that it helps improve and strengthen good bacteria (probiotics) in the gut while eliminating bad bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, and Staphylococcus aureus.
By improving your pet’s gut health, Manuka honey also strengthens their immune system, fights viral infections, and improves their oral health. In fact, Manuka honey has been found to be particularly effective for dogs and can be helpful in treating kennel cough while boosting their digestive system.
Soothing Effects on Irritated Skin
Your pets can be susceptible to spots of irritated skin, which is quite common in cats and dogs. This can be caused by allergies or skin infections. Manuka honey’s soothing properties are useful in reducing irritation, itchiness, and inflammation while stimulating the skin to heal naturally.
Additionally, Manuka honey can support the body’s natural ability to restore skin cells and keep your pet’s skin healthy. This can be especially beneficial for pets with conditions like eczema or dermatitis.
Antioxidant Properties of Manuka Honey
Manuka honey is not just a sweet treat; it is packed with antioxidants. Antioxidants are important for your pet’s health as they help fight free radicals that can cause DNA damage leading to disease. The antioxidants in Manuka honey can provide a protective effect to your pets, slowing the aging process, improving immune health, and combating damage caused by environmental factors such as pollution and pesticides.
How to Use Manuka Honey for Your Pets
Manuka honey can be utilized in different ways for your pets. It can be directly applied as a spot treatment on wound sites or on dressings. The honey can also be given orally to your pets—either straight up, diluted with water, or mixed with their treats.
However, it’s important to note that not all animals can safely consume honey. Dogs that are diabetic or allergic to bees should not be given any honey. It is always advisable and recommended to check with your pet’s veterinarian before using honey on them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Manuka honey is not just beneficial for humans, but also for our furry friends. Its wound healing properties, gut health benefits, soothing effects on irritated skin, and antioxidant properties make it a valuable addition to your pet’s health regimen. Whether it’s treating wounds, boosting immunity, or promoting healthy skin, Manuka honey can play a crucial role in keeping your pets happy and healthy. Just make sure to use it in the appropriate manner and consult your pet’s veterinarian if you have any concerns.