Benefits of Using Class IV Laser Therapy for Cats and Dogs

Since the 1970s, laser therapy has been used to treat different health problems in Europe. The FDA approved its use in the United States in 2002, and since then, it has gained popularity as a treatment option for cats and dogs.


Laser therapy is a noninvasive, painless procedure that uses specific wavelengths of light to speed up healing and relieve symptoms like pain, inflammation, and swelling. Veterinarians use it to treat various conditions in pets, such as arthritis, skin problems, and pain after surgery.
 

How Laser Therapy Works
 

Several studies have shown that laser therapy works by speeding up healing and reducing pain. Infrared light has unique healing properties that work on a cellular level. Unlike surgical lasers, the effect of laser therapy is photochemical rather than thermal. The laser used in many veterinary clinics is a Class IV laser. It is the most powerful laser available on the market.


Infrared light helps normalize cellular function, making it an effective treatment for pets. Since the treatment is safe and painless, sedation is not required. Each treatment session typically lasts between three and eight minutes, and the pet may only feel a slight warm sensation in the affected area.
 

Effects and Benefits of Laser Therapy on Dog and Cat Cells and Tissues

Even though some pets may feel better after just one session, most experts recommend a series of treatments because the effects build up. Depending on the dog’s or cat’s condition, the recommended treatment plan could last anywhere from one to four weeks.


Several clinical trials and studies have demonstrated the following positive effects of Class IV laser therapy on cells and tissues:

 

• Accelerated tissue repair and growth of cells

• Quicker healing of wounds

• Reduced formation of fibrous tissue

• Anti-inflammatory properties

• Analgesic effects, meaning it helps reduce pain

• Improved vascular activity, which helps blood flow more effectively

• Increased metabolic activity, which can help improve energy levels

• Improved nerve function

• Immune system regulation

• Stimulation of trigger and acupuncture points can help relieve pain and promote healing

Application of Laser Therapy

Veterinarians often advise combining laser therapy with additional therapies, including massage, chiropractic adjustments, and soft tissue mobilization. These additional therapeutic modalities are complementary and can improve the overall efficacy of the treatment strategy.


Laser therapy works particularly well on elderly dogs and cats with hip dysplasia and back issues, or those that have undergone knee or other orthopedic surgery. After a few sessions, some dogs that could hardly walk were able to resume activities they hadn't engaged in for years.


Laser therapy is a fantastic approach to aiding your pet if they are using long-term drugs that could cease working or have adverse effects on their kidneys or liver. If you combine it with medication, it works even better. Veterinarians can thoroughly reduce or even get them off these chronic medications after starting laser therapy treatments.


Palisades Animal Clinic strongly recommends Class IV laser therapy and is happy to talk to clients about how it can treat their cats and dogs. If you have questions about this type of therapy, please call us at (424) 402-5800. You're also welcome to visit our clinic at Pacific Palisades, California.