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Ask the Veterinarian/Catnip toy safety

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Expert: - 7/6/2011


Question
Hi!  This is a little bit of a different question per say.  I have been sewing many catnip toys for our local shelter.  I having been using a polyfiber in with the catnip for the stuffing.  However, I read somewhere that it was recommended to use uncooked white rice along with the organic catnip that I have.  I can do a mixure to where I shake it together and then put it into my sewing pouch for the cats.  That way, they will love some type of little bean bag more then having a fiber fill one like before.  With my searches on the Net, I'm not coming up with a lot of suggestions for this.  I think this would be neat and a little bit more fun for the kitties.  However, I'm just worried how safe this would be of course if there is ever a tear open in the fabric and a kitty gets a hold of the uncooked rice.  Any input on this would be wonderful.  I have made hundreds of toys for our local shelter and something that would even be a little bit more fun there would be wonderful.  I have also been making tons of different sizes that takes me a long time to do a pattern and sew.  A bean bag type catnip toy would work out all in one size and I would do a bunch just like that.  (Only if it would be Ok of course.)  Thanks for any input!!!!

Answer
I am polling my holistic veterinary colleagues. All the catnip toys I purchase are 100% filled with catnip, but unless you grow and dry it yourself that could be expensive. We have one great feline veterinarian, so I will get back to you on this.
To be sure, would you please send a duplicate of this to my regular email - healthyanimals@aol.com.
Thanks.

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Dr. Christina Chambreau

Expertise

I can give you the holistic approach to any problem in any species, though mostly I work with dogs and cats. Depending on the condition and the type of animal, I will be able to give very specific treatment suggestions such as what flower essences, homeopathic remedies, nutritional supplements, diet changes, lifestyle changes or herbs that may be helpful - not drugs. I can also suggest where you can go for further education or to find a specialist in a specific holistic field. I can help you understand why your animal is ill and what improvements can be expected. I do not check messages more than every one to two days, so PLEASE DO NOT ask about EMERGENCIES - call your local veterinarian. I cannot diagnose your animal. I cannot prescribe specific treatments. I am no longer very current with conventional treatments, so cannot answer questions on those. I am not an expert on birds or small critters. I will give you helpful connections about hose species.

Experience

I graduated from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine in 1980 and began using homeopathy in my practice after a client introduced me to it. By 1988 I was using exclusively holistic treatments. I began lecturing in 1987 and have spoken at veterinary conferences, health food stores, people's homes, churches, veterinary college conferences - anywhere people want to learn more about keeping their animals healthy.

Organizations
Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy (I helped found this one) American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association National Center for Homeopathy American Veterinary Medical Association

Publications
I have written in many magazines, journals and newspapers. A few include Bark Magazine; Journal of the AHVMA; Baltimore Dog Magazine; Whole Dog Journal; Tiger Tribe; Wolf Clan. I have also been frequently interveiwed on radio and TV.

Education/Credentials
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Certified Veterinary Homeopath (CVH)

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