Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that has been used to treat various ailments in humans for thousands of years. More recently, acupuncture has gained popularity in veterinary medicine, helping dogs, cats, and other species regain optimal function. Although this therapy dates back to ancient times, modern scientific studies have proven many of acupuncture’s benefits. Our Creature Comforts Veterinary Service team explains this alternative therapy.

Acupuncture in pets: The basics

Acupuncture is based on the concept of energy flow, known as Qi (pronounced “chee”), through pathways—meridians—in the body. Blocked Qi can lead to dysfunction, but acupuncture aims to restore flow by stimulating specific points, which promotes healing and alleviates pain. Acupuncture types administered to pets include dry needling, electroacupuncture, aquapuncture, and laser acupuncture.

How does acupuncture work in pets?

Although acupuncture predates modern science, research has provided insights into how this therapy works. Studies suggest that acupuncture can stimulate hormone release, relieve muscle spasms, activate nerves, and improve circulation. Some of these effects may lead to anti-inflammatory substance release and enhance communication between the nervous system and the rest of the body.

Pet acupuncture benefits

Acupuncture is an ancient healing art with scientifically proven benefits. This therapy provides pets with the following benefits:

  • Pain management — Acupuncture can effectively manage chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis or cancer, by reducing inflammation and increasing endorphin production—the body’s natural painkiller.
  • Enhanced healing — Acupuncture can support healing from surgery or injury by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation and pain, and accelerating tissue repair. 
  • Neurologic health support — Acupuncture benefits pets with neurologic issues, such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), anxiety, or neuropathies, by improving nerve signaling and enhancing neurotransmitter levels.
  • Digestive health support — Acupuncture can address pets’ gastrointestinal (GI) problems such as chronic diarrhea, constipation, or vomiting. Stimulating specific points helps regulate the digestive system and stimulate appetite.
  • General wellness support — Beyond treating specific conditions, acupuncture can be part of a holistic approach to your pet’s overall health and well-being. 

How acupuncture is administered to pets

Acupuncture treatment begins with an initial visit and consultation with our qualified veterinarian. We review your pet’s medical history, discuss current health issues, and perform a thorough physical exam to better understand your furry pal’s problem and your goals for their care. We then develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your pet’s needs.

Our veterinarian inserts thin, sterile needles into specific acupuncture points on your pet’s body during each acupuncture session. The number of needles and a session’s duration vary according to your pet’s condition and how quickly they respond to treatment. At each subsequent visit, we briefly reassess your pet and ask about improvements to determine how we should adjust your pet’s plan. 

Most acupuncture sessions last less than 30 minutes, and pets tolerate them well. In fact, many patients relax and enjoy their sessions. The needles we use are extremely thin, so insertion causes little to no discomfort. People occasionally feel tingling, numbness, or cramping during acupuncture sessions, so we can assume that pets may also feel these sensations from time to time. We recommend you monitor your pet’s response to each session and communicate any concerns with our team.

Pet acupuncture safety

Professionals certified to perform acupuncture on people cannot safely perform the procedure on pets because each species’ anatomy and stimulation points are different. The only professionals qualified to perform acupuncture on pets are licensed veterinarians who are certified by a formal training program. Our team is uniquely qualified to administer this alternative therapy to your pet and determine how to use acupuncture as an adjunct to traditional therapies. 

Acupuncture can be a valuable addition to your pet’s care, offering pain relief, enhanced healing, reduced anxiety, and improved overall wellness. Understanding how acupuncture works and what your pet can expect during treatment can help you decide if this alternative therapy is suitable for your furry pal. Contact our Creature Comfort Veterinary Service team to learn more about acupuncture treatments or to schedule an acupuncture consultation.