What is Bee Propolis and how is it used for dogs and cats?

Our question this week was:

What is Bee Propolis and how is it used for dogs and cats?

Answer

Hi – thanks for your email. You wrote asking about what is bee propolis and how is it used for dogs and cats.

Propolis is a substance used by bees to create their hives. It is used as some sort of “sealant”. According to Wickipedia.com, it is collected from tree buds, sap flows, or other botanical sources. This has been touted to be beneficial for human health – and marketed in health food stores. The proposed human benefits include reducing inflammation, helping to treat uclers, and burns. It many also have some healing effects with viral diseases and heart disease. There is also a claim that suggests it can help prevent cataracts. Some natural health specialists for pets claim that there are also some benefits to pets although I could not find much scientific evidence regarding its benefits in cats and dogs.

Propolis is a substance that is sometimes used by natural or herbal therapists.

Don’t give it without first consulting with your veterinarian.

Best of luck!

Dr. Debra

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