Pet Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM)
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese treatment used for centuries to relieve bodily pain and illnesses in humans. Nowadays, veterinarians are trained in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) to offer acupuncture to their animal patients.
Acupuncture for pets involves inserting ultra-thin needles into specific points on the body to manage symptoms of illness. It can be combined with traditional veterinary care to provide a comprehensive approach to animal treatment.
This veterinary therapeutic treatment can be used to relieve pain and discomfort caused by various health conditions in pets of all ages, from puppies and kittens to adults and seniors.
Cat and dog acupuncture is considered a safe and effective therapy that may relieve the pain or discomfort associated with injury and illness.
What will my pet experience during an acupuncture treatment session?
Before beginning acupuncture treatment, the vet must determine the source of the cat or dog's pain. Once the cause of your cat's or dog's symptoms is known, treatment can be honed on their specific health issue.
Pet acupuncture aims to help the animal's body heal itself by resetting the balance of energy in the body, known as "chi." This is done by inserting one or several fine needles into the animal's body at specific points where blood vessels and nerves intersect. This virtually painless process triggers endorphin release, which provides pain relief for some of the most chronic pain.
It is also believed that the acupuncture process benefits mental health by triggering the release of serotonin, reducing your pet's anxiety levels, and generating a feeling of happiness.
What are the benefits of acupuncture for pets?
Some of the benefits of veterinary acupuncture include:
- Stimulating the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain relievers, and anti-inflammatory substances.
- There are no adverse side effects on internal organs, as can occur with some prescription medications.
- No adverse interactions with other medications or supplements make acupuncture safe for animals undergoing conventional treatments.
- Acupuncture treatments increase blood flow, oxygenation, and metabolic and toxic waste removal.
- Localized pain relief may be achieved at the site of needle insertion due to the relaxation of the muscles in that area.
What conditions can acupuncture help treat in pets?
Veterinary acupuncture can help treat various health issues involving inflammation or chronic pain. Here are some of the conditions acupuncture can help treat.
- Acupuncture is believed to help with metabolic disorders by regulating your pet's endocrine system, improving digestion, and relieving oxidative stress. Treatment also aims to improve blood flow to the tissues, boost oxygenation, and remove toxins and metabolic waste.
- It may also relieve arthritis pain and discomfort for pets by triggering the release of endorphins. In some cases, acupuncture treatment may reduce the need for conventional pain medications. Acupuncture can also be used to relieve pain in pets who are unable to tolerate traditional pain medications.
- Joint disease is common in pets and can seriously impact your pet's quality of life. Acupuncture aims to decrease the pain and tension associated with joint issues, making movement easier for your cat or dog.
- When veterinary acupuncture is used as a cancer treatment, the primary goal is to stimulate blood flow and support the pet's immune system to help improve the body's ability to heal naturally. Animal acupuncture treatments can also help relieve the side effects associated with conventional cancer treatments.
- If your pet has experienced an injury or trauma, such as an accident, fall, or fight, inflammation and pain may result. Acupuncture and other traditional Chinese veterinary medicines can treat these symptoms and help your pet recover and return to good health.
Cost of Acupuncture for Pets
The cost of acupuncture for your pet can vary based on location, the experience of the veterinary acupuncturist or TCVM specialist, and the condition being treated. For an accurate estimate of the cost of this service, speak to the staff at your veterinary clinic. Most veterinarians are happy to provide clients with an estimate of treatment costs.
Many pet parents consider these treatments a worthwhile investment in their pet's health and well-being. Some pet insurance plans may cover acupuncture, so check your pet's policy before booking treatments for your dog or cat to avoid surprises.
We often recommend and provide acupuncture for pets to complement traditional veterinary care and treatment. Consult their veterinarian to determine if acupuncture is suitable for your furry family member.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.