Breathing problems in a cat

Question
My cat, a spayed 13 Siamese, is diagnosed with Restrictive Cardiomyopathy.  Her 1st onset came in 01/05.  She had little if any symptoms prior to this.  She is taking medication (lasix 12.5 mg 2x's daily, enalapril 2.5 mg 1/2 2 x's daily, and aspirin 25 mg jell every 3 days via ear) and supplements for her overall health, coat, lungs, heart, etc. (msm, coq10,...) Still, after using the litter or similar energy exerted she is breathless.  The cardiologist stated that he thinks she may have some lung issues but cannot prescribe medication due to the heart condition.  I am giving her Bromalain and have recently purchased a product called 'lung tonic' which I still need to be sure that all ingredients are ok for cats.  What can I give her, non-medicine, that will not interact with her medications that will keep her from being so breathless?  Or is there a safe drug that she can take as well?  Thank you.  

Answer
Hello Ellen -

Without a a real working knowledge of your cat's past history I am hesitant to recommend any detailed supplements to you. If you are interested I will leave my contact information at the bottom of this response and I would be happy to discuss this ailment further with you.

The best supplement that comes to mind that I believe will not interact with your pets current medication is Hawthorn Berry. It is excellent for heart related concerns and will help increase circulation which will in turn assist with laboured breathing.

The MSM, CQ-10 and Bromelain are okay for other related conditions and will not interfere with Hawthorn. Forward me the ingredients in the lung tonic and I will let you know if it is safe or will treat the underlying cause. Hawthorn Berry can be purchased in various forms but for your pets condition, liquid suspension would be the best.

With Restrictive Cardiomyopathy, you need to treat the cause, which is the heart. The breathing is a result of improper function of circulation. Make sure any herbal product has something in it to focus on this point and not so much on the lungs.

I hope this information has helped you and your pet.

If you are interested in natural and herbal remedies for human and animal concerns please contact me at wintersaurora@yahoo.com and I will be happy to assist you. I also offer a catalogue of specially formulated herbal remedies which I can send to you as well. My products are also available online at www.localharvest.com.

Thank you and best wishes to you and your pet.

Sincerely,
Sharon Hubbs, AHG
Certified Natural Health Consultant & Herbalist