Physical Rehabilitation Indications and Techniques in Cats
Dr. Cara McNamee
Physical rehabilitation can be a valuable tool for helping cats recover from a variety of injuries and illnesses. It can help to improve range of motion, strength, and coordination, and can also reduce pain and inflammation.
There are a number of different physical rehabilitation techniques that can be used in cats, including:
Passive range of motion: This involves moving the cat's joints through their full range of motion, even if the cat is not able to do it on their own. This can help to prevent stiffness and contractures.
Active range of motion: This involves the cat moving their own joints through their full range of motion. This can help to improve strength and coordination.
Hydrotherapy: This involves exercising the cat in water, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
Therapeutic Exercise: using equipment and specific movements to improve range of motion and strengthen particular muscle groups.
Acupuncture: can help decrease pain and improve blood flow to injured areas, as well as increase neurologic input
Photobiomodulation (laser therapy): helps decrease inflammation and improve healing and circulation
Most cats do well in the underwater treadmill with support from our trained veterinary rehab therapists.
The specific physical rehabilitation techniques that are used will depend on the cat's individual needs. A trained rehab veterinarian can develop a rehabilitation plan that is tailored to the cat's specific injury or illness.
In addition to physical rehabilitation, cats may also benefit from other treatments, such as:
Medication: Medication can be used to reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms.
Surgery: Surgery may be necessary to repair a torn ligament or tendon, or to remove a tumor.
Nutritional support: A healthy diet and weight management can help to improve the cat's overall health and recovery.
With the right care, most cats can make a full recovery from a physical injury or illness. Physical rehabilitation can play an important role in helping cats to regain their mobility and independence.
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Here are some additional tips for helping your cat with physical rehabilitation:
Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of the exercises over time.
Make sure the exercises are fun and engaging for your cat.
Use positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, to encourage your cat to participate in the exercises.
Be patient and don't get discouraged if your cat doesn't see results immediately. It may take some time for your cat to recover fully.
If you have any questions about physical rehabilitation for cats, request more information here. We can help you develop a safe and effective rehabilitation plan for your cat.