Holistic Cancer Treatment for Animals
Receiving a cancer diagnosis for your pet can be incredibly upsetting. Each tumour type has its own treatment options and outlook, and navigating these decisions can feel overwhelming.
At Holistic Vet Care, our fully qualified vets here to support both you and your pet every step of the way. Our aim is to support your pet’s whole body; while helping you feel informed, supported, and confident in their care.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Ruby's Story
Ruby’s large liver mass
Ruby had a mass that took over one-third of her liver. Because she was so poorly, it was unlikely that she would have survived surgery. Her vets said there was nothing that could be done, so they sent her home for end-of-life care.
By the time she came to us, Ruby was very lethargic and refusing to eat; her family thought she wouldn’t survive the weekend. However, Ruby’s appetite and energy levels returned. She was able to enjoy the final two years of her life, and spent her 14th birthday with her family.
Book your free introductory consult
Not sure if we can help? Book a free 15min introductory consult with one of our holistic vets!
It’s a chance to get to know us, ask questions, and decide if you want to use our services with zero obligation.
Introductory consults can be in person or via Teams. Terms and Conditions apply.
Why cancer support matters
Cancer can impact the whole body, even without metastasising. It can affect your pet’s appetite, energy levels, immunity, overall comfort and quality of life.
In some cases, conventional treatment options such as chemotherapy may cause systemic side effects (such as neuropathy), which can negatively impact your pet’s comfort.
It is because of these systemic effects that whole-body support is fundamental for maintaining a good quality of life for pets with cancer.
What we treat:
Please be advised that this list is not exhaustive. If your pet’s ailment has not been listed, it is still likely that we can help. Please do not hesitate to reach out!
A highly aggressive cancer affecting blood vessel walls.
Cancer that starts in the liver itself, which can interfere with normal liver function and may cause weight loss, lethargy, poor appetite, or jaundice.
Cancer originating from lymphocytes (white blood cells crucial for immunity).
Cancerous tumours affecting mammary tissue.
Mast Cell Tumours (MCTs) are common tumours that arise from mast cells and are often inflammatory.
The formation of bony growths along the spine, which can limit flexibility and contribute to back pain.
Most common cancer affecting the urinary tract.
How we support your pet
Please be advised that conventional treatment is provided by your regular veterinarian, as we do not offer surgical or conventional medical interventions at Holistic Vet Care.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a gentle, holistic approach to supporting pets with cancer. By combining carefully selected Chinese herbal remedies with acupuncture, these therapies aim to support overall health, help manage associated clinical signs and drug effects to promote comfort and wellbeing.
TCM is highly individualised, allowing our qualified vets to create personalised herbal and acupuncture plans tailored to your pet’s unique needs. When used alongside conventional care, these therapies can help optimise overall health while minimising potential side effects from medications, making it a safe and supportive option for your pet.
Even if your pet is receiving surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy, TCM can help support stability before treatment and recovery afterwards.
Food therapy
Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.
Cancer causes metabolic abnormalities which can lead to weight loss, muscle atrophy, impaired immune function, and fatigue. From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, food therapy is foundational in addressing underlying “patterns of disharmony” (the way disease presents within the individual).
With food therapy we aim to support the energetic balance and natural healing capabilities of the body. For this, we rely on tailored whole-food diets.
Every pet is unique, however, and our goal is to tailor dietary recommendations to your pet’s individual TCM diagnosis, stage of disease, and overall constitution. Specific guidance can be discussed in detail with our fully qualified vets during your consultation.
Claiming insurance
Many pet insurance providers now offer cover for complementary and holistic therapies, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, and laser therapy. However, we recommend checking what is included in your plan as cover varies between policies. Please bear in mind that all consultations, treatments, and herbal prescriptions must be paid for at the time. We will then help you claim back from your insurer.
Frequently asked questions
Must I leave my current vets to seek treatment at Holistic Vet Care?
No – we work alongside your conventional vet. We don’t replace conventional or emergency treatment. Our aim is to support your pet’s whole body and to help you feel informed, supported, and confident in their care.
Many complementary therapies are used alongside conventional treatments to improve patient welfare and can help improve prognosis. While adverse herbal-drug interactions (HDIs) can occur, they are uncommon when therapies are prescribed appropriately and monitored carefully.
When interactions do occur, the most common scenario is the herb enhancing the effect of the drug – which may allow conventional treatment plans to be adjusted by the prescribing vet.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Can I fully replace conventional treatment with holistic treatment?
No, holistic treatment should not replace conventional diagnosis or medical care.
At Holistic Vet Care, we work alongside your regular veterinarian. Conventional treatment is essential for diagnosing the condition, assessing severity, and managing emergencies or complications. Our role is to support your pet’s comfort, overall health, resilience, recovery and long-term wellbeing.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Do I need a referral from my vets?
Yes – your primary vet signs the “Vet Care Agreement” and sends your pet’s history to us. This ensures your pet receives safe, coordinated care before your first appointment.
How Long Does Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Take to Show Results?
The rate and degree of improvement depend on your pet and the severity of disease. Some animals show marked improvement in a matter of weeks, whilst others may need months. With TCM, improvement is steady and sustained, so patience is required.
Are There Any Risks with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
TCM is generally safe when prescribed by a qualified person. Certain herbs may have side-effects and may have the ability to interact with conventional medications. Therefore, it is imperative that TCM is only used under professional guidance.
Will acupuncture hurt my pet?
It is unlikely. We find that most patients tolerate acupuncture very well, many end up falling asleep! Some points can be painful on some patients, but we take steps to minimise discomfort in these cases.
Can holistic treatments help older pets?
Absolutely! We see many geriatric patients, and they often demonstrate notable improvements (it may require several treatments before the benefits can be obviously appreciated). Some clients report that their older animals appear brighter, more comfortable, or more engaged again.
How do I know which holistic treatments are suitable for my pet?
Talk to your vet before trialling any new treatments.
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Get in touch
Where are we located?
Suite A, Blisworth Marina, Blisworth, Northampton, NN7 3FG.
We are located just outside of Blisworth, between Northampton and Towcester. Our clinic is at the Blisworth Marina, providing a peaceful, relaxing setting, with ample parking.
