Pins and Needles: Does Acupuncture for Cats Work?

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

Acupuncture for cats? Sounds new age-y, but it isn’t! It’s been around for thousands of years, and it might just be the answer for you and your cat.

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese treatment that was developed for humans. It works with the belief that we all have energy cycles moving through our bodies through a nexus of energy points. If an energy point becomes blocked, we become ill. The principle of energy cycles and energy points isn’t unique to humans though; in ancient Chinese medicine, it is believed that all living creatures have this.

As a result, acupuncture should work on cats as well as humans. Actually, cats have really similar energy points on their bodies as human, so any skilled veterinary acupuncturist should be more than capable of helping your cat align her energy.

Related:How to Keep Your Senior Cat Active

Why Choose Acupuncture for Cats?

When dogs are sick or in pain, people recommend pain relieving remedies such as hemp chews. You can’t give a cat a hemp chew, but acupuncture might just be the solution. The procedure can help your cat relax and find her alignment again. Cats can becomes more alert, social, and generally more comfortable with themselves again. It’s probably best for ailments related to muscle pain, or reproductive, neurological and gastrointestinal issues. Some vets also recommend acupuncture as something to manage pain and hasten recovery after surgery.

Moreover, if your cat seems to be suffering from a series of minor ailments, then trying to get to the source of it through acupuncture is worth trying. Acupuncture might also be the ideal thing for your older cat. As cats age they can become stiff and grouchy — unblocking the energy flow in their bodies could be ideal to help your old cat feel young again!

Related:How To Relax A Stressed Cat

How Does it Work?

Acupuncture is actually incredibly painless (despite what it looks like!). A skilled acupuncturist can insert the needles so well that it doesn’t send any pain signals to the brain. Humans and cats alike usually relax during the procedure, and sometimes even nap. Of course, just like there are some humans who don’t like acupuncture, there are cats who won’t put up with the procedure. It’s always best to set up a consultation, or give your local natural healing vet clinic a call and find out what they think!

The Nitty Gritty

Cat acupuncture treatment can take anywhere from less than a minute to thirty minutes, and can cost from $25 to $120. Most places allow you (even encourage you) to stay with your pet throughout the procedure. Some acupuncturists use needles that are rotated by hand, which the most common and well known type of acupuncture. But recently, some therapists use lasers with injections of sterile fluids, or even short bursts of electrical current to stimulate the area.

Whatever type of acupuncture your cat will get, your specialist will discuss it with you beforehand to make sure you agree that this is really the best thing for you and your cat.

If this is something you’re really interested in, it might be worth bringing it up with your vet during your next visit with your cat!

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

What To Do With Your Overweight Cat

That''s not fur - it''s fat! Is your kitty packing on the pounds? An overweight cat may look cute, but those extra pounds could mean more health problems.
Be Part of the 10,000 Dog Aging Project To Study Why Smaller Dogs Live

Have you ever wondered why small dogs live longer than large dogs? That''s the catalyst behind the 10,000 Dog Aging Project.
Poof is the Smallest Way To Keep Track of Your Pet

It may be tiny, but Poof gets a lot done! This gadget tracks your pet''s health and helps find him if he gets lost, but it''s the size of a pea (or a bean).
Clumberdoodle

The Clumberdoodle is a cross between a purebred Clumber Spaniel and Poodle. They are smart and friendly, as well as social and playful.
Top 20 Gifts For Chihuahua Appreciation Day

These adorable little spunkmeisters yapped their way into their own appreciation day. We’ve got the top 20 gifts for Chihuahua Appreciation Day so you can honor them with all the gifts and adoration they demand deserve.
Domestic Shorthair

One of the most popular cat breeds in the world is the Domestic Shorthair, which is also referred to as DSH. But this is not a single recognized breed.
Siberian Husky

Before bringing a Siberian Husky into your home, you should be aware that it is a pack animal, so it needs to feel like it is part of the family.
9 Fresh Ways to Keep Your Dog’s Paws Clean

Your dog''s paws have places to go - that''s why you need to take diligent care of them. Help him put his best foot forward with these easy paw care tips.
Adorable Kitten Tries To Teach Old Dogs Some New Tricks

So much squee! A group of senior Chihuahuas has adopted a kitten into their motley crew, and we can not handle the cuteness!
Curly Horse

The Curly Horse is social, curious, and enjoys being around people. This horse breed has a hypoallergenic coat because of its soft and fine hair.
Casper Dog Bed Review: Sweet Dreams For Dogs

We reviewed the Casper Dog Bed and here''s our honest, tested opinion. Is the Casper Dog Bed worth the money - read our review and find out!
Recall Alert: Nature’s Variety Recalls Instinct Raw Chicken Formula

Nature''s Variety has announced a voluntary recall of their Instinct Raw Chicken Formula for dogs with due to possible Salmonella contamination.
Ratese

The adorable Ratese will charm your pants off. This recent designer dog breed was developed by crossing the Maltese with a Rat Terrier.
Two-Faced Kitty Pulls an About-Face With Copycat Face-ade!

Now here''s a look you don''t see everyday. This adorable little two-faced cat has scientists wondering if she is a true ''Chimera.''
6 Puddle-Proof Tips For Potty Training Your Puppy

Potty training your puppy may seem like tricky, but it really doesn''t need to be. Stay positive and persevere, and your puppy will soon be house broken.