Your Arthritic Cat's First Visit with an Acupuncturist
Posted on: 26 August 2015
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You've decided to try pet acupuncture to ease your cat's painful arthritic joints. This procedure increases circulation, relaxes muscles and causes your cat's body to release natural pain-killing endorphins. You may find it to be a good addition to the other treatments you do to make your cat comfortable. Here is what you can expect when you take your cat in for their first acupuncture treatment.
The Initial Examination
The acupuncturist will begin by doing a thorough physical exam of your cat from head to toe. The practitioner will ask a lot of questions about your cat's medical history and daily activities. They will want to know about energy levels and your cat's general personality. This exam tells the practitioner where the focus should be for the acupuncture session to be effective.
Insertion of Acupuncture Needles
The pet acupuncturist will insert several long, thin needles just under the cat's skin. The location of the needles depends on where the practitioner senses the circulation and energy of your cat is in most need it. Don't be concerned that the needles aren't being inserted near your cat's painful joints. The practitioner works with the energy meridians that will be most beneficial for your cat.
How Will Your Cat React to the Session?
When done by a trained professional, the insertion and removal of the needles should cause no pain and little reaction from your cat. Many pets are relaxed by the process and may become drowsy. The entire session may last just a few minutes and the practitioner will look for signs that your cat is getting restless so they can stop.
When Will You and Your Cat See Results?
The practitioner will suggest one or more sessions depending on the level of arthritis pain your cat is experiencing. Your cat may appear more comfortable after the first session, but it may take another session or two to see significant results.
These sessions won't go on indefinitely, either. The practitioner will treat your cat until they reach a level of comfort, then you may come back less frequently to maintain that state.
A Combined Approach to Your Cat's Arthritis
When used with medication that your veterinarian prescribes, massage therapy and heat pads, acupuncture is an effective tool in your approach to help your cat be comfortable. The arthritis isn't curable, but your cat can lead a pleasant, pain-free life with these different treatment options working for them. For more information, talk to a vet like Clayton Veterinary Associates.