The Sound Cat Veterinary Hospital

Feline Laser Therapy

At The Sound Cat Veterinary Hospital, we believe you should have as many alternatives as possible for caring for your beloved companion. We’re delighted to provide laser therapy as part of our comprehensive range of services.

Appointment

Veterinary Services

Feline Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is a painless, non-invasive treatment that stimulates the body’s natural healing and pain control response. It can be used as a standalone therapy or complement other treatment methods. Using a small, handheld device, the doctor applies a low-level laser to the area in question, stimulating normal cellular function. This results in faster wound healing and enhanced pain relief. Because laser therapy requires no medication or surgery, there are no harmful side effects.

Your veterinarian will first assess a pet’s pain management needs to determine whether he or she is a good candidate for laser therapy. It is not recommended for pets with cancer to have laser therapy as it could worsen or spread the malignancy. The doctor will create a custom treatment plan. Generally for your feline to receive the greatest pain relief, a series of eight to ten sessions is recommended, usually starting two to three times weekly, tapering down to weekly appointments.

Treatment sessions are tailored to each pet’s individual needs. Some felines may only need eight to 10-minute sessions. A feline that suffers from arthritis in multiple joints may benefit from a longer, 30-minute session. During a treatment session, the cat reclines on a table. Some veterinarians will even dim the lights and play soothing music, creating a mini “spa” experience for the pet. Your veterinarian may allow you to be present for these sessions, but you will need to wear special goggles to protect your eyes.

Felines that undergo orthopedic surgery may need up to six months of recovery time. Physical therapy helps the feline to recover and become active again. Laser therapy is a common adjunctive treatment that allows faster healing of the surgical incision, and also helps to relieve arthritic pain.

Many arthritic pets respond positively to laser therapy. In fact, some felines even fall asleep during treatment sessions as it is the first time they are finally able to relax and not be in pain.

In addition to helping manage arthritis pain, veterinary laser therapy has numerous other applications. Treatment with a Class IV laser may help heal wounds, treat skin disorders, and help surgical skin incisions heal faster.