Chiropractic Care in Cats

Chiropractic Care for cats is a holistic way to improve the health of a feline’s joints and spine without the need for surgery or drugs. A chiropractic adjustment works to restore proper alignment of the joint and spine to allow the entire body to function normally. A veterinary chiropractic specialist performs feline chiropractic care, pinpointing the cause of the illness, effectively removing the symptoms associated with the illness and encouraging the body to promote self-healing. 

Chiropractic care for cats has over 100 different chiropractic methods, as it depends on the location of the problem and the specific technique the veterinary chiropractor is using. The veterinary chiropractor may use a mechanical adjustment device such as an activator in his or her procedure, or the specialist may simply use their hands to further identify the problem. In general, the veterinary chiropractor will first identify the specific sign of subluxation. Identifying the specific location of the problem may require an x-ray of the feline’s skeletal system, but a physical examination may be the only diagnostic tool used. The affected portion of the cat’s anatomy is located and the underlying bone is stabilized using the adjuster, allowing the actual adjustment to begin. 

The adjustment focuses on moving the joint in the specific direction needed to return to its normal functions. The chiropractor’s movements will be a controlled thrust motion, paired with high-velocity and a short elevation. In the spin, one chiropractic adjustment creates an open space lower down in the spinal column that will require a similar method of adjustment. One subluxation causing other areas of the body to become unaligned is referred to as associated subluxations, which will further align the total spinal structure. 

After treatment, the veterinary chiropractor will reevaluate the cat’s range of motion and ensure there is no associated pain to be found. The cat will then be allowed to move around the room to further evaluate of the adjustment has made a change in the cat’s gait. 

The efficacy of chiropractic care for cats depends on the condition the feline is affected with and the specific cat. Some felines benefit greatly from chiropractic care, while others have a very minimal response.

Chiropractic care for cats often requires several adjustments before the feline makes a complete recovery. Joints, especially in the hips, tend to slide back out of place and will require several adjustments before the joint will stay placed in that area. The veterinary chiropractor may suggest exercises to perform with the feline at home, physical therapy, and medications to aid in the feline’s recovery. 

The cost of chiropractic care for cats depends on the chiropractic provider, your cat’s age, and current condition. In general, the initial visit will run about $125 and all follow-up appointments are often half of the initial appointment cost, running about $50-$75. Ask your veterinarian for an estimate for your feline chiropractic needs. 

Chiropractic care for cats is not intended to cure a feline from any disease and it is not meant to replace surgical care. However, chiropractic care is an excellent form of treatment for patients with chronic illness, such as arthritis. Chiropractic methods will also improve a feline’s mobility and give him or her an overall better quality of life.

Chiropractic care for cats is difficult to prevent, as so many condition can benefit from chiropractic practices. However, injuries to the skeletal system, such as hit-by-car or falls, can be prevented with simple safety precautions.