Chiropractic Care for Pets
Our beloved pets are important members of the family, so we should do whatever we can to keep them happy and comfortable. However, some pet owners aren't aware that their furry friends can still experience problems related to spinal dysfunction. If these problems arise, they can cause pain and stiffness that can severely impact your pet's daily life.
Just as many humans will turn to chiropractic therapy to restore normal motion, reduce pain, and improve performance, the same treatment is available for cats and dogs. Cats and dogs can get chiropractic adjustments to resolve a variety of painful conditions that cause discomfort.
Below, our Danbury veterinarians would like to share some information regarding cats and dogs getting chiropractic adjustments.
Your Pet's Initial Assessment
During your pet's chiropractic evaluation, the veterinarian will develop a thorough history of your pet's health. This will consist mainly of owner observations and medical history. Your vet will analyze several factors, including things like previous X-rays, lab results, past therapies, previous diagnoses, and current medications or supplements your pet may be taking.
A detailed chiropractic evaluation will include a thorough overall examination of your pet prior to performing any chiropractic adjustment. This examination typically includes posture, vertebral and extremity static, motion palpation, and gait analysis.
Your Pet's First Chiropractic Adjustment
A chiropractic visit will typically involve hands-on treatment of your pet’s muscles and joints in the area of concern. Most cats and dogs love this care and find the treatment process calming and relaxing. Depending on your pet's condition and requirements, the veterinarian may provide some at-home exercises to help your pet regain strength and mobility.
When your cat or dog goes to the chiropractor, especially if they have never been adjusted before, they may experience some soreness the following day. Cat and dog chiropractic adjustments should show improvements within the first 72 hours depending on the severity of their condition or injury.
Follow-Up Appointments
A follow-up adjustment may be necessary within 1 or 2 weeks to continue the promotion of the healing process. The veterinary chiropractor may be able to provide you with a rough estimate of how many appointments your pet may need during their initial assessment. However, this could of course change depending on how your companion responds to treatment.
If a noticeable improvement is seen within the first few weeks, the follow-up appointments may be spread out a bit further. Depending on how active your pet is throughout their everyday life, chiropractic maintenance care may be recommended anywhere from once a month to once every six months. Your veterinarian can work with you to determine what is best for your companion when it comes to maintaining their optimal health.
When Your Pet Should See a Chiropractor
Typically, animal chiropractic care will initiate with you noticing changes in your pet’s behavior or mobility. It can be something as simple as your pet just not quite seeming like themself. It is important to see your vet right away as this can quickly develop into them struggling with things they routinely do on a day-to-day basis.
Some clear signs that something is wrong, include routine tasks appearing difficult for your cat or dog, whether it be getting in and out of the car, going up and down stairs, getting on or off of furniture, or simply lying down or getting back up.
Your cat or dog may also appear stiff, or sore, or may try to get out of the way when you try to pet or hold them. These signs can be subtle but are often the first signs of concern. Although the signs may seem insignificant, it is important to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible to confirm nothing is wrong, or if there is, treat the issue and prevent it from getting worse.
Spinal Adjustments at Mill Plain Veterinary Clinic
Our Danbury veterinary team is experienced in chiropractic for pets. We would be happy to examine your furry friend, diagnose them, and offer appropriate treatment options. If your pet could benefit from a spinal adjustment, we can walk you through the treatment process and determine what you can expect throughout the process.
With our experienced professionals, your cat or dog will be in good hands!
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.
