Why Holistic Health & Natural Products for Pet Care Are Becoming So Popular

Pet parents today are more conscious than ever of what they’re putting in and on their furry companions. The holistic health movement—which emphasizes overall wellness through natural, preventative, and non-toxic methods—is no longer just for humans. It’s gaining massive popularity in pet care too, especially in South Africa.

But why the shift? And which products are worth considering? Let’s dive in.

Why Holistic Health Pet Care Is on the Rise

Several factors are fueling the growing popularity of holistic health in the pet world. First, pet parents are more informed than ever. With quick access to research and reviews, people are questioning the ingredients in pet food, flea treatments, and even grooming supplies. Concerns about artificial additives, overmedication, and long-term health effects are driving the shift toward more natural options.

Second, as human wellness trends have gone mainstream—think organic food, essential oils, and yoga—many people are extending those same principles to their pets. If we’re eating clean and choosing natural remedies, why not do the same for our dogs and cats?

Finally, there’s a growing mistrust of one-size-fits-all solutions. Holistic health embraces individuality, acknowledging that every pet is different and may respond better to a customized, integrative approach.

Holistic pet care considers the whole animal—their physical health, emotional wellbeing, and environmental surroundings. With rising awareness of harmful ingredients in commercial pet products, more pet parents are turning to natural, chemical-free alternatives.

Some of the main drivers behind this trend include:

• Allergy and skin issues caused by artificial additives

• Digestive problems linked to low-quality food and overmedication

• Desire for longevity and quality of life

• Skepticism toward overuse of pharmaceuticals

Natural products can help prevent common issues like itching, inflammation, and stomach upset without harsh chemicals. Holistic pet care isn’t just about avoiding chemicals—it’s about supporting health on every level: physically, emotionally, and even environmentally.

Popular Natural Alternatives for Pets

Here are a few popular areas where natural alternatives are gaining traction:

1. Herbal Remedies & Supplements

Natural supplements can support everything from anxiety to arthritis. Always consult a vet before starting herbal treatments, especially if your pet is on other medications.

2. Natural Grooming Products

Many conventional shampoos and flea treatments contain harsh chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin. Natural alternatives are gentler and often just as effective. These products not only keep your pet clean but reduce toxic exposure for your whole household.

3. Holistic Nutrition

What goes into your pet's bowl has a huge impact on their health. Raw and gently cooked diets, limited-ingredient formulas, and organic kibble are all on the rise. Be sure to transition diets gradually and get advice from your vet or a pet nutritionist.

4. Probiotics and Immune Support

Gut health is key for immunity, digestion, and even mood. Many pet parents now incorporate probiotics and natural immune boosters into their pets’ routine.

Proudly South African Manufacturers and Trusted Brands for your Furry Friend

Here are a few of my favorite manufacturers:

vii.v Pet Health:

For years they have had requests to create animal size supplements for their customers who wanted their pets to benefit as much as they did from the products. Animal CMO is the first Sevenpointfive pet product to be finally be introduced into the range.

Kyron Labs:

Kyron Laboratories' mission statement, in a nutshell, is to advance animal well-being by providing high-quality, scientifically formulated animal health products and grooming products. They are committed to providing effective solutions for a wide range of animal health needs, including flea and tick control, deworming, joint health, and more, all while ensuring that their products are affordable and accessible. They strive to be a trusted partner in helping pet owners and veterinarians make their animals look and feel their best.

Some of their flagship brands are Mirra-Cote, Mobi-flex, Pet Dent, Protexin, Purl, BrightEye, Avert, Footsack, etc.

Feelgood Pets:

Feelgood Pets was founded when the customers of Feelgood Health expressed a need for herbal and homeopathic natural remedies for their pets too. All Feelgood Pets remedies are 100% natural, contain no artificial ingredients and are cruelty-free.

The Herbal Pet:

A range of products for dogs and cats consisting of carefully researched blends of herbs, amino acids, vitamins and minerals. They have products for calming, itchiness, everyday health, cleansing and joints.

Vondi's:

They have developed a range of natural pet remedies that are totally organic and free of chemicals. The ingredients are known for their healing properties (Khakibos, Buchu, Rooibos, Spirulina, CBD) and have a history of being effective, & reducing if not eliminating inflammation & therefore boosting immunity. Boosting immunity will also help you deal with parasites effectively.

Regal Pet Health:

They have developed a range of complementary products to address your pet’s specific health needs, using herbs and natural ingredients well-known for their therapeutic benefits. Regal is part of the Nativa Family. They have a cat and dog range.

Medico Herbs Pet Range:

Originally founded in South Africa, Medico Herbs brings in its herbs from several countries from across the globe and have found sources of rare herbs and medicinal remedies in places such as China, India, New-Zealand, South Africa and South America. They have 20 years experience of sourcing and distributing herbal remedies.

Ricki Pet Products:

An all-natural range for dogs and cats with active ingredient of Buchu extract. Give your pet the best of an alternative to deal with pain and inflammation related to conditions like rheumatism, arthritis, hip dysplasia, skin disorders, bladder infection and general injuries. Unlike traditional pain killers and anti-inflammatory drugs, no harmful side effects are associated with the use of Buchu extract. They have a cat and dog range.

Top Natural Pet Supplements in South Africa

These are a few of the products I like best:

Mirra-Cote (Kyron Labs)

• Best for: The treatment of animals with dull coats and poor coat condition. For supplemental use in pruritis and for dry, scaly skin.

• Why we love it: It contains Evening Primrose Oil (a source of linoleic and gamma-linolenic acid), flaxseed oil (source of alpha-linolenic acid), wheat germ oil, marine fish oil, and lecithin. Mirra-Cote ® yields an optimum Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio 6 of 10:1.

• Available at: Vet Shops, Takealot, Pet Heaven, Pet's Planet, etc.

vii.v CMO Joint Health for Animals

• Best for: Muscle and joint pain in horses, cats, dogs and other pets; Arthritis; Sarcoidosis; Tumors; Allergies; Itching.

• Why we love it: CMO stops joint destruction, not just the pain. There are no known side effects. CMO affects virtually any ailment with chronic inflammatory or autoimmune components. CMO helps correct autoimmune programs within memory T-Cells, rather than just suppressing or stimulating immune system activities. It does not inhibit the activities of the other types of T-cells responsible for combating harmful microbes and leaving the body vulnerable to attack (as prescription arthritis medications do). CMO is a naturally derived substance (bovine fatty acids) that has received the highest safety level rating attainable in the States. It cannot be derived from vegetable or plant sources.

• Available at: vii.v Online Store

MobiFlex (Kyron Labs)

Best for: Joint support, anti-inflammatory, and age-related mobility.

Why we love it: It contains powerful ingredients including Glucosamine, Chondroitin Sulphate, and MSM; it helps reduce joint pain, improve flexibility, and restore comfort. Download the PDF Info Sheet here.

Available at: Vet Shops, Takealot, Pet Heaven, Pet's Planet, etc.

Feelgood Pets Aller­giClear Pets

• Best for: Allergies.

• Why we love it: A herbal-homeopathic blend designed to combat allergic reactions in dogs and cats—such as flea saliva, pollen, and chemicals. Helps reduce reliance on antihistamines or cortisone.

• Available at: Feelgood Health

Feelgood Pets Immunity & Liver Support

• Best for: Immunity and Liver Support.

• Why we love it: A powerful herbal tonic aimed at strengthening the liver and immune system post-illness or trauma. Contains detoxifying herbs used in local herbal practice.

• Available at: Feelgood Health

Feelgood Pets MobiLive (Anti‑Inflammatory) 

• Best for: Inflammation, Arthiritis-related pain and Joint Support

• Why we love it: Herbal formula created to reduce arthritis-related pain and inflammation using South African anti-inflammatory botanicals.

• Available at: Feelgood Health

Herbal Pet Allergy Formula

• Best for: Allergies.

• Why we love it: Combines Sutherlandia, echinacea, Siberian ginseng, and vitamin C to combat skin irritation, boost immunity, and support coat health.

• Available at: The Herbal Pet

Herbal Pet Serenity Formula

• Best for: Anxiety and excessive barking.

• Why we love it: A calming blend of chamomile, passion flower, tryptophan, and magnesium to soothe anxious pets without causing drowsiness.

• Available at: The Herbal Pet

Herbal Pet ParaCleanse Herbal Dewormer

• Best for: Worms and digestive parasites.

• Why we love it: A parasitic cleanse using pumpkin seed, wormwood, cloves, diatomaceous earth, and seaweed—helps eliminate digestive parasites naturally

• Available at: The Herbal Pet

Vondi's Pet CBD Oil

• Best for: Pain, inflammation, and many other ailments.

• Why we love it: Made from pure, powerful, lab-tested CBD products that can have life-changing effects. CBD is not psychoactive, it is an excellent solution for those looking for relief from pain, inflammation, and many other ailments, without the intoxicating influence of marijuana and various pharmaceutical drugs, which often have significant side effects.

• Available at: Vondi's Online Shop

Vondi's OM3 Omega Oil

• Best for: Skin and Joints support.

• Why we love it: Vondi’s Natural Skin and Joint Remedies is preservative, mercury and alcohol free. Om3 Omega Fish Oil is a natural high concentrate and a source of highly nutritive omega 3 for your pet’s skin and joints.

• Available at: Vondi's Online Shop

Regal Allergy Relief Remedy

• Best for: Supporting and balancing the immune system: Prevents allergies by supporting the immune system, prevents itchy paws and runny eyes, prevents itchy skin and alleviates scratching.

• Why we love it: It contains three herbs traditionally known for supporting and balancing the immune system to assist in protecting dogs against allergens: Echinacea, Liquorice and Stinging Nettle.

• Available at: Dischem, Checkers, Takealot, etc.

Regal Cat Health Tonic

• Best for: It provides support with: Allergens, Circulation, Digestion, Immunity, Joint health, Nervous system, Respiratory function, Urinary tract function, and Skin health.

• Whe we love it: A homeopathic formula designed to promote balance within the body. Formulated using Dr. Schüssler’s Biochemic Tissue Salts to assist with keeping your feline in good health – to calm, support and strengthen.

• Available at: Dischem, Checkers, Takealot, etc.

Medico Herbs Urinary Formula Spray

• Best for: UTI and to support healthy urinary function for dogs, cats and horses. Kidney Problems , Bladder Infections , Burning Urine , Water Retention and a Natural Antibiotic.

• Why we love it: An oral spray with herbs like buchu, bladder bush, dandelion, marshmallow, and parsley. This complex is used to improve the functional capacity of the kidneys. It is a natural antibiotic, cleanses the body, and has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiseptic, astringent, and diuretic properties. It is good for inflammation in the urinary system, acidifies the urine, and prevents bacteria from entering the bladder. It also relieves pain and burning urination and is of great help for water retention.

• Available at: Medico Herbs Online Store

Ricky Litchfield Infla-active Capsules

• Best for: Inflammation, pain relief, joint support, improved skin and coat health.

• Why we love it: Promotes a mobile, pain-free lifestyle in older dogs. Promotes healthy hips and joints in growing dogs. Supports relief of eczema and allergic skin conditions in conjunction with gel/spray/shampoo or all 3. Promotes relief in arthritis and hip dysplasia. Promotes relief in post-surgical rehabilitation. May be taken long term with no side effects.

• Available: Canine and Co, Absolute Pets, Pet Heaven, Takealot, etc.

Natural Grooming Products That Pamper Without Harm

Pannatural Pets Hypo-Allergen Shampoo

• Best for: Sensitive skin and allergy-prone pets

• Why we love it: This coconut-based formula is fragrance-free, free from parabens, sulfates, colorants, and essential oils. Gentle enough for frequent use, it’s the go-to for pets with skin sensitivities.

• Available at: Pannatural Online Shop

Pannatural Pets Heavenly Hemp Shampoo

• Best for: Dry, itchy coats needing extra moisture

• Why we love it: Infused with organic hemp seed oil, it provides a calming wash that leaves fur silky soft.

• Available at: Pannatural Online Shop

Regal Skin Healing Shampoo

• Best for: Pets with minor skin irritations

• Why we love it: pH-balanced and SLES-free, it includes natural oils like calendula and eucalyptus to promote skin healing.

• Available at: Dischem, Checkers, Takealot, etc.

Gut Health = Happy Pets: Probiotics to Consider

Digestive health plays a big role in your pet’s immunity and overall behavior. Here's what South African pet parents are turning to:

Protexin Soluble Probiotic (Kyron Labs)

• Best for: Daily gut maintenance and dietary changes.

• Why we love it: This vet-trusted probiotic helps balance gut flora, especially during food transitions or after antibiotics. It is a palatable 7-strain probiotic powder which can be added to milk, water or top dressed onto the animal’s food. This completely natural biological product ensures a beneficial balance of digestive tract micro-organisms in all animals. This in turn enables the animal to resist the effects of stress and infections.

• Available at: Takealot, Pet Heaven, Absolute Pets, etc.

Protexin Pro-Kolin Paste (Kyron Labs)

• Best for: Acute or chronic diarrhea and digestive upsets.

• Why we love it: Combines probiotics with kaolin and pectin to soothe and firm up stools quickly. Ideal for pet owners to use when first signs of diarrhoea are present, giving them time to see if it is a non-specific GI tract upset caused by stress (travelling, re-homing, change of diet, kenneling, antibiotics etc.) that will clear within 48 hours, or a serious condition that needs the attention of a veterinarian.

• Available at: Takealot, Pet Heaven, Absolute Pets, etc.

Nutriflex Floramax Pre+Probiotic

• Best for: Immune support and general digestive health.

• Why we love it: A high-quality blend of prebiotics and probiotics that supports gut and immune function. FloraMax is a vet-approved probiotic for dogs and cats that are designed to maintain the natural balance of beneficial gut bacteria in pets. FloraMax is recommended for dogs and cats of all ages experiencing poor or irregular bowel function, diarrhea, constipation and yeast overgrowth.

• Available at: Nutriflex Online Store

Why These Products Stand Out

• Local availability: Easily found at Takealot, Pet Heaven, Faithful to Nature and Dis‑Chem.

• Clear, natural ingredients: Labels are transparent—no hidden synthetics or GMOs.

• Well-reviewed by South African pet parents and cruelty-free approved.

Tips for Making the Switch to Natural Products

1. Introduce slowly – especially supplements and new food or grooming routines. Start small and monitor your pet’s response. Every animal is unique, and what works wonders for one may not suit another.

2. Patch test shampoos – just like you would for yourself.

3. Consult your vet – especially if your pet has a medical condition or takes medication.

4. Read labels – look for clear ingredient lists and avoid artificial additives. Transparent labeling of ingredients, you should be able to recognize most ingredients.

5. Trusted reviews – Peer feedback is key when trying something new.

6. Third-party certifications – Certifications like SABS, TÜV, and SANAS ensure products undergo independent testing, not just marketing. Seals from Ecocert, BWC, and AGW mean companies aren’t greenwashing—you get real, verified claims.

7. Ethical Choices: Picking cruelty-free or humane‑raised products aligns with holistic values for both pets and the planet.

   
   

Final Thoughts

Holistic pet care isn’t just a fad—it’s a growing movement led by educated pet parents who want safer, more effective products. By choosing natural grooming and gut health solutions, you're not only caring for your pet's body but also supporting their emotional well-being and longevity.

Start with one change—whether that’s a gentle shampoo or a daily probiotic—and see the difference for yourself.