Physical therapy for cats is generally very safe. If your cat is very nervous or has a heart issue, it's best to contact us first because cats can get very stressed out. But generally, this is about as safe as it gets.

The need for physical therapy in cats is diagnosed through working with your general vet. We may need to get x-rays or perform advanced diagnostics. When we do our physical rehabilitation assessment, we measure limbs, assess muscle mass, check the range of motion of the joints, and observe their walk. We use our experience and training to determine what needs to be addressed first. It's always good to have as much information as possible. Therefore, I recommend seeing your veterinarian first, doing whatever diagnostics need to be done there, and then coming to see us where we're highly trained in this particular area.

Physical rehabilitation for animals requires specialized training, so it's recommended to find someone who is certified in this field. It's not as simple as just using a laser. I highly recommend finding someone certified in physical rehabilitation to work on your cat.

Physical therapy and rehabilitation can help with a variety of issues. We often see animals with pain issues, but most commonly we're dealing with mobility issues related to joint problems, orthopedic issues, arthritis, tendon problems, soft tissue problems, or muscle issues. We also handle neurologic issues. Anything that's causing a mobility issue is something that we would aim to treat.

Physical therapy and rehabilitation can help with pain and mobility issues. If you notice changes in your cat's behavior, such as a decrease in jumping or activity, that is a clear indication to seek help. We first address pain and then work on strength and mobility, which improves their mobility and overall quality of life.