Veterinary cold laser therapy is a relatively new method of reducing pain and supporting the healing process for pets. In this post, our Cleveland vets discuss cold laser therapy for pets and how it can benefit them.
Cold Laser Therapy for Cats & Dogs
Cold laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy or Class IV laser therapy, utilizes concentrated light to enhance blood circulation and promote cellular regeneration.
This process is an innovative treatment that has gained popularity in recent years as veterinarians become aware of its benefits for cats and dogs. Used similarly to acupuncture, massage therapy, and other alternative therapies, laser therapy can be used in conjunction with or in place of medication to help manage pain, inflammation, and wound healing for animals.
The Benefits of Laser Therapy for Pets
The veterinary industry has deemed pet laser therapy safe and effective. It can effectively treat diseases, injuries, and conditions such as tissue injuries (including strains and sprains) and arthritis.
Some of the benefits that cold laser therapy can offer are:
- Enhance circulation
- Allowing the muscles to relax
- Decrease nerve sensitivity
- Vasodilation can increase blood flow ultimately increasing oxygen and speeding up the healing
- Reduce pain and swelling
- The release of endorphins
- Speed the healing process
In addition, veterinary laser therapy does not have any negative side effects and there is no need for sedation. You also don't need to worry about your pet missing any fur as cold laser therapy for animals doesn't require the removal of fur to properly complete treatment.
Health Issues Cold Laser Therapy Can Treat
There are many conditions and symptoms that veterinary laser therapy can help with, including:
- Chronic arthritis
- Surgical incisions
- Tendon and ligament injuries
- Traumatic injuries
You may have a pet that is unable to undergo the traditional method of treatment and therefore may benefit from veterinary cold laser therapy, such as:
- Pets who suffer from liver disease leaving them unable to take commonly used medications
- Cats that are only able to use specific pain management medications
- Exotic pets that may not be able to have medications administered normally
- Older pets that are unable to be medicated due to decreased organ function
Is Veterinary Laser Therapy Harmful?
When performed by a trained veterinarian, and the procedure is executed properly, veterinary laser treatment should not cause any discomfort for your pet. It is a pain-free and non-invasive process that pets may even find soothing.
The only possible concern for this procedure is the laser beam coming into contact with the eyes of the pet or even humans in the room, as it can cause permanent damage to the retinas of humans and animals. to prevent this from happening, everyone in the room, including your pet, will wear protective goggles.
How Long Will the Appointment Take?
The length of sessions varies depending on the area being treated and how much energy is being delivered through the laser. A typical laser therapy session lasts between 5 and 20 minutes.
Before treatment, we will perform a complete physical exam, in addition to any necessary X-rays, to determine whether cold laser therapy is an appropriate treatment option for your pet.
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.