Acupuncture is used for a wide range of conditions in dogs and cats, often as a valuable complement to conventional treatment. Below is an overview of the most common applications. Wondering whether acupuncture could help your pet? Feel free to get in touch and we’ll look into it together.
- Musculoskeletal problems and pain: By far the most common reason to start acupuncture, in both dogs and cats:
- Osteoarthritis and other forms of joint inflammation
- Hip dysplasia
- Back problems, such as spondylosis and disc disease (intervertebral disc degeneration)
- Muscle pain and trigger points (myofascial pain)
- Nerve pain, for example after a pinched nerve
- Recovery from trauma, such as an accident or fracture
- Pain relief and recovery around surgery
- Older dogs and cats with chronic joint or back problems in particular often show visible improvement: moving more freely, getting up more easily, and renewed interest in jumping or taking the stairs are signs owners frequently report.
- Digestion: Acupuncture can offer supportive care for:
- Diarrhoea and other digestive complaints
- Constipation in cats (often associated with megacolon)
- Reduced appetite, for example around illness or chemotherapy
- Nausea
- Skin and respiratory tract:
- Allergic skin problems and itching
- Lick granulomas (excessive licking of one spot)
- Feline asthma
- Allergic nasal complaints
- Nervous system and behaviour
- Paralysis symptoms, for example following disc disease
- Anxiety and stress-related behaviour
- Support during recovery from neurological conditions
- Kidney and bladder problems
- Chronic kidney disease, particularly to support appetite and wellbeing
- Cystitis (bladder inflammation) in cats
- Urinary incontinence
- Hormonal and internal conditions
- Support for hormonal conditions such as Cushing’s disease, hypothyroidism, diabetes mellitus and Addison’s disease
- Support for liver and kidney problems
- Cancer support: Acupuncture is often used as a supportive treatment alongside conventional cancer treatment, aimed at boosting energy, reducing pain and nausea, and improving appetite.
Dogs versus cats
In dogs, acupuncture is most often used for osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia, back and disc problems, and recovery from trauma or surgery. In cats, alongside these same musculoskeletal issues, cystitis, constipation/megacolon and feline asthma are also commonly within acupuncture’s reach — and cats generally tolerate treatment surprisingly well, with most relaxing quickly and some even falling asleep during the session.
When isn’t acupuncture a good option?
Acupuncture is a safe, widely applicable treatment, but it isn’t a replacement for conventional diagnostics and treatment. In acute emergencies, serious infections, or conditions requiring immediate medical or surgical intervention, conventional examination and treatment always come first. I prefer to use acupuncture as a complement to the care your pet is already receiving, in good coordination with the treating vet.
Eastern thinking, backed by Western training
Through my IVAS certification and BEVAS training, I’ve learned to combine these ancient Chinese principles with my regular veterinary knowledge. This allows me to use acupuncture as a complement to conventional care: aimed at relieving pain, supporting recovery, and bringing balance to both the body and the state of mind of your pet.