Cat and Dog Acupuncture
In traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture treatment was used as a way to promote the healing process by renewing the balance of energy throughout their body.
While science has moved past superstitions that illness is caused by an imbalance of vital energies in the body, veterinary acupuncture holds up as an effective remedy for pain by improving blood flow, which boosts oxygenation in tissues and assists the body's natural healing capabilities.
At Ygnacio Animal Hospital, we feel that we can obtain the best results by using veterinary acupuncture treatment as a supplement to medical therapy to help restore your pet's health and vitality.
Pet Acupuncture Techniques
Veterinary acupuncture works by inserting tiny needles into the meridians, precise locations where blood vessels converge with nerves. The needles help promote blood flow along these meridians, in turn supporting the nervous system and promoting circulation while enhancing the body's healing abilities.
What Are Common Veterinary Acupuncture Uses?
Our vets often recommend the use of acupuncture or other types of Chinese medicine for a number of issues in pets, including:
- Pain Management
Medical treatments such as chemotherapy can feel very uncomfortable for your pet. They will often be combined with acupuncture in an effort to relieve some discomfort, helping your cat or dog to fight their illness.
- Musculoskeletal Issues
Acupuncture can often be used for injury rehabilitation. Conditions such as arthritis, nerve injuries and hip dysplasia also tend to respond well to acupuncture.
- Dermatology & Skin Issues
Acupuncture treatment can help encourage increased circulation, which can help hot spots, granulomas and allergic dermatitis. It can also improve healing and reduce pain, leading to less itching and subsequent over-grooming.
- Gastrointestinal Issues
Acupuncture may stimulate digestive secretions, which helps to promote healthy digestive activity. Conditions such as diarrhea or nausea may benefit from increased blood flow.
- Respiratory Issues
The immune-calming and anti-inflammatory capabilities of acupuncture treatment can improve asthma, allergies and other conditions.
What Are the Benefits for Dog and Cat Acupuncture?
Acupuncture for pets provides a number of benefits, including:
- Pets in poor health will benefit from the lack of systemic side effects
- Lowers the amount of waste products produced
- Helps relax muscles and relieve pain
- Improves metabolic waste removal from the body
- Promotes an increased blood flow which boosts oxygen in tissues