When we think about physical rehabilitation for our companion animals, we often immediately think of dogs, but cats can benefit from it just as much. Read on to find out how!
Conditions Treated
So why do cats sometimes need physical rehabilitation treatment?
- Cats are not small dogs, but they do suffer from many of the same types of conditions as dogs do, and they are often good candidates for physical rehabilitation for conditions such as: Osteoarthritis
- Post-operative fractures
- Post-amputation
- Post-orthopedic procedures
- Neurological conditions
- Ligament injuries
- Spinal cord trauma
- Chronic pain
- Overweight body condition
How We Treat Them
Every cat is different, and we tailor our treatment plan to the individual feline patient’s needs and tolerance.
In addition, we have strategies to make it as easy and comfortable as possible for our cat patients at our clinic, including having their guardians be present for the appointment and bring the cat’s own blanket or bed, using warming pillows, using pheromone diffusers and sprays in the room, using the cat’s favorite treats, and working in shorter intervals when necessary.
In addition, we have strategies to make it as easy and comfortable as possible for our cat patients at our clinic, including having their guardians be present for the appointment and bring the cat’s own blanket or bed, using warming pillows, using pheromone diffusers and sprays in the room, using the cat’s favorite treats, and working in shorter intervals when necessary.
Physical Rehabilitation Modalities and Related Care
- Manual Therapy (including range of motion exercises and stretching)
- Low Level Therapeutic Laser
- Therapeutic Ultrasound (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy)
- Electrical Stimulation
- Therapeutic Exercise (including ones we can teach you to do at home)
- Underwater Treadmill
- Acupuncture
- Orthotics
- Mobility carts
- Weight Loss Plans
Medications
In conjunction with physical rehab treatments, we often use medication to help with osteoarthritis and pain in cats, such as:
- Adequan (injection that can be given in the clinic or at home)
- NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
- Solensia (new monthly medication for osteoarthritis in cats)
- Other drugs, such as gabapentin and amantadine
We also provide complementary care for other medical conditions such as cancer, seizures, and inflammatory bowel disease. We work with you and your regular veterinary oncologist to integrate other treatments such as Traditional Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, and Nutritional Support.
