Veterinary Acupuncture, or the use and effects of acupuncture in dogs and cats
Veterinary acupuncture is becoming an increasingly popular treatment method in veterinary medicine. With the rising interest in acupuncture for humans, many have begun to recognize its potential for treating animals as well. In this article, we will discuss what veterinary acupuncture is, when it is used, and why it is gaining popularity. We will also present cases where acupuncture therapy is applied to animals, and discuss its effects, contraindications, and the accessories used in veterinary acupuncture procedures, such as veterinary acupuncture needles.
Table of contents:
1) What is Veterinary Acupuncture?
2) When Should You Consider Veterinary Acupuncture?
3) Benefits of Acupuncture for Dogs, Cats, and More
4) Acupuncture for Animals: Which Animals?
5) What are the Effects of Veterinary Acupuncture?
6) What are the Contraindications for Veterinary Acupuncture?
7) Veterinary Acupuncture Needles and Other Accessories Used in Complementary Veterinary Medicine
8) Conclusion
What is Veterinary Acupuncture?
Veterinary acupuncture is a treatment method that originates from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It involves inserting acupuncture needles into specific points on an animal's body, known as acupuncture points. These points are distributed along meridians, or energy channels, which according to traditional Chinese medicine, carry energy (Qi) throughout the body. By stimulating these points, acupuncture in animals aims to restore the body's energy balance, which can lead to improved health and pain relief.
For more information on traditional Chinese acupuncture, we encourage you to read the article "What is Acupuncture?".
It is important to note that veterinary acupuncture is part of complementary veterinary medicine, meaning it is used as an adjunct to conventional treatment methods, not as a replacement. An increasing number of veterinarians are undergoing veterinary acupuncture courses and gaining certification, contributing to its growing popularity and acceptance in the veterinary community.
When Should You Consider Veterinary Acupuncture?
Animal acupuncture is used in various cases, particularly where conventional treatment methods are insufficient or as support for other therapies. The most common situations where acupuncture is applied include:
Chronic Pain Treatment: Acupuncture is an effective method for treating chronic pain in animals, including pain associated with musculoskeletal disorders. By stimulating acupuncture points, pain relief and an improved quality of life for the animal can be achieved.
Neurological Disorders: Acupuncture can be used for animals suffering from various neurological disorders, such as epilepsy, nerve paralysis, or spinal cord injuries. Stimulation of acupuncture points may contribute to improved neurological function and tissue regeneration.
Digestive Problems: In cases of digestive issues such as diarrhea, vomiting, or constipation, acupuncture can support digestive functions and restore balance in the digestive system.
Inflammatory Conditions and Allergies: Acupuncture can help reduce inflammation and alleviate allergy symptoms by supporting the animal's immune system.
Benefits of Acupuncture for Dogs, Cats, and More
The growing interest in veterinary acupuncture is driven by several key factors. First, the increasing awareness among pet owners about alternative treatment methods leads to greater openness to complementary therapies, such as dog acupuncture or cat acupuncture. As acupuncture gains popularity in human medicine, pet owners are beginning to inquire about its application for their pets as well.
Secondly, scientific research confirming the effectiveness of acupuncture contributes to its growing acceptance in the veterinary field. Observing the effects of acupuncture treatments in animals provides a unique opportunity to study its effectiveness, as the placebo effect cannot be attributed to animals. Many studies have shown that stimulating acupuncture points can lead to the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers, resulting in tangible benefits for animals suffering from chronic pain.
Another factor is the need to alleviate pain and improve the quality of life for animals, particularly in cases where conventional treatment methods are inadequate or carry the risk of serious side effects. Acupuncture is a minimally invasive method that can be used as an alternative or complement to other therapies, which is especially important in treating small animals where minimizing risk is crucial.
Acupuncture for Animals: Which Animals?
Veterinary acupuncture can be applied to a wide range of animals, from small mammals to dogs and cats, and even horses. Each species has specific needs and responds differently to acupuncture, so it is important that the therapy is tailored to the individual animal.
Acupuncture for Dogs
Dog acupuncture is one of the most commonly used forms of veterinary acupuncture. Dogs, especially older ones, often suffer from chronic pain associated with joint or spinal conditions. Acupuncture can relieve pain, improve mobility, and enhance the overall quality of life for dogs.
Acupuncture for Cats
Cat acupuncture is just as effective as it is for dogs, although cats may require a gentler approach due to their sensitivity. Cat acupuncture is often used to treat chronic pain, digestive issues, and behavioral disorders.
Acupuncture for Horses
orse acupuncture is popular for treating sports injuries, musculoskeletal problems, and respiratory disorders. Horses are large animals, so proper placement and technique are crucial to achieving desired effects. Due to the size of the animal, very long veterinary acupuncture needles are used in horse acupuncture.
Acupuncture for Small Animals
Acupuncture can also be used on small mammals, such as rabbits, ferrets, or guinea pigs. In these cases, acupuncture supports the treatment of digestive issues, pain, and neurological problems.
Acupuncture for Exotic Animals
Acupuncture is also applied to exotic animals, such as birds or reptiles. In these cases, proper technique and needle selection are essential for safe and effective treatment.
What are the Effects of Veterinary Acupuncture?
The effects of veterinary acupuncture can vary depending on the type of ailment, the animal's health condition, and the frequency of therapy. So, what is its impact on the animal's body? The most commonly observed effects of acupuncture treatments include:
Pain Reduction: One of the main goals of acupuncture is to reduce pain, particularly in cases of chronic pain. Stimulation of acupuncture points leads to the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters with analgesic effects.
Improved Mobility: In cases of musculoskeletal disorders, acupuncture can improve mobility, reduce joint stiffness, and support regenerative processes in tissues.
Better Functioning of Body Systems: Acupuncture can support the functioning of various body systems, including the digestive, respiratory, and neurological systems. Regular sessions can lead to an overall improvement in the animal's health and well-being.
Reduction of Inflammation: Acupuncture has anti-inflammatory effects, which are particularly beneficial in treating inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis or autoimmune diseases.
Improved Mental State: Acupuncture can also impact the animal's mental state, reducing stress and improving mood. This is especially important for animals with behavioral problems or those recovering from difficult experiences.
What are the Contraindications for Veterinary Acupuncture?
Is veterinary acupuncture a safe procedure? When performed by an experienced therapist, veterinary acupuncture is generally safe, but there are some contraindications to consider before starting therapy. These include acute inflammation, malignant tumors, blood clotting disorders, and severe heart or kidney diseases. Acupuncture should also not be used on pregnant animals.
Veterinary Acupuncture Needles and Other Accessories Used in Complementary Veterinary Medicine
Veterinary Needles
The primary tool used in veterinary acupuncture is the veterinary acupuncture needle (also known as veterinary needles). Are these acupuncture needles different from those used in human acupuncture? No! These needles are exactly the same, but for quadrupeds, needles are used with parameters tailored to the size and species of the animal.
When it comes to dog acupuncture, acupuncture needles with plastic handles are often used as they are easily visible even in dense fur and do not get tangled in long hair.
In the case of horse acupuncture, the longest needles are often used, those 100 mm, 125 mm, or 150 mm long, as only such needles are effective for stimulating acupuncture points in a horse's large and muscular body.
In addition to needles, other tools and methods may be used in veterinary acupuncture, such as:
Electroacupuncture in Animals
Electroacupuncture is used to stimulate acupuncture points with low-intensity electric currents. Electroacupuncture is particularly effective in treating chronic pain and neurological disorders.
Laser Therapy in Animals
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is often used as a safe and painless alternative to traditional needles. Lasers can stimulate acupuncture points, which is particularly useful for small animals or those sensitive to needles.
For more information on Low-Level Laser Therapy, we encourage you to read the article "What is LLLT or Low-Level Laser Therapy?".
Acupressure in Animals
This involves stimulating acupuncture points through pressure rather than needles. Acupressure is often used as a complement to acupuncture or as an alternative in cases where needle use is not possible.
Conclusion
Veterinary acupuncture is a versatile and effective treatment method that is gaining popularity in veterinary medicine. Like traditional acupuncture used in humans, its source is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Thanks to its numerous advantages, such as minimal invasiveness and a wide range of applications, animal acupuncture is becoming a valuable tool in treating pain, neurological disorders, digestive issues, and many other ailments. While there are some contraindications, the benefits of this therapy are undeniable. Pet owners who are looking for complementary treatment methods are increasingly turning to veterinary acupuncture, believing in its effectiveness and positive impact on their pets' health. More and more veterinarians are opting for veterinary acupuncture workshops or animal acupuncture courses.
