Acupuncture for dogs and cats

From itchy skin caused by allergies to aches caused by arthritis, our dogs and cats can be affected by numerous health issues that can reduce their joy and quality of life. To help their pals, many pet owners today are looking to natural pet remedies, and holistic care for dogs and cats often fills the bill. Acupuncture for dogs and cats is one holistic therapy that could help improve your pet’s health and happiness in multiple ways.

What is holistic care for dogs and cats?

Holistic pet health is a natural approach to treatment that considers the whole animal — mind, body and spirit. Natural remedies and holistic medicine for dogs and cats may work in conjunction with traditional veterinary care. But they also aim to reduce the need for powerful cat or dog medications that can cause negative side effects, while supporting the dog’s or cat’s healing process.

What are the benefits of acupuncture for dogs and cats

Veterinary acupuncture is one holistic treatment for dogs and cats. Acupuncture for pets may help with a number of health issues, including:

• Reduce pain and inflammation
• Improve mobility
• Ease back pain and arthritis symptoms
• Improve skin conditions and allergies
• Help with digestive issues
• Reduce anxiety

How does cat acupuncture and acupuncture for dogs work?

Pet acupuncture is meant to aid your dog’s or cat’s body in healing itself by rebalancing energy channels that have been disrupted by illness or injury. Acupuncture for pets works similar to how it works for humans and has many of the same benefits. If you’re unfamiliar with acupuncture, here’s what you can expect with acupuncture for dogs or cats as a natural pet remedy:

• Cat acupuncture and acupuncture for dogs are performed using thin needles inserted into specific areas to stimulate the nervous system, leading to improved blood flow. Acupuncture also helps increase natural anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving substances that reduce your dog’s or cat’s discomfort. The needles are usually left in your pet’s skin for about 20 minutes.
• Your pet’s first acupuncture session may include a medical exam, review of your pet’s medical history and discussion of treatment options. Multiple sessions may be recommended, however most pet owners notice an improvement after three or four sessions.
• Acupuncture doesn’t hurt and, in general, pets relax quickly when the needles are inserted. Some pets may be sore or stiff after acupuncture treatment, but typically feel better within a day or two.

Other cat and dog natural remedies to consider

In some cases, dogs and cats are frightened by the acupuncture needles or won’t sit still for the treatment. Acupressure is another type of holistic pet health treatment that works similarly to acupuncture but uses massage instead of needles to stimulate trigger points. Other types of holistic medicine for dogs and cats include electroacupuncture, a form of acupuncture that uses electrical stimulation, and chiropractic treatments.

Pet acupuncture should only be performed by a qualified acupuncture vet — licensed veterinarians with specific training in acupuncture. Talk to your veterinarian about acupuncture — as well as other natural pet remedies — as a potential treatment for your dog or cat. Your vet may be able to refer you to a veterinary specialist if they don’t have the required skills.

Remember that the CareCredit credit card makes it easy to pay for holistic dog and cat remedies, as well as traditional veterinary care at locations nationwide. Use the Acceptance Locator or CareCredit Mobile App to find a provider near you that accepts the CareCredit.