Laser Therapy
Laser Therapy for Dogs and Cats
Supporting Healing and Comfort When Our Pets Need it Most
Laser therapy is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment that can help reduce inflammation, ease discomfort, and support healing. It is also known as red light therapy, low-level laser therapy, and photobiomodulation therapy. Laser therapy can be used on its own or alongside other treatments as part of a broader pain management plan.
How Laser Therapy Works
During treatment, a trained team member holds a therapy laser over the affected area for a few minutes.
The light energy works below the surface of the skin to help:
- reduce inflammation
- improve circulation
- encourage healing
- decrease pain signals
- support the body’s natural recovery response
Most sessions are quiet and comfortable. Many pets relax during treatment, and owners may be able to stay with them to help reduce anxiety.
What Laser Therapy May Help Treat
Laser therapy can be helpful for a wide range of conditions, including:
- arthritis
- degenerative joint disease
- back pain
- muscle, tendon, and ligament injuries
- open wounds
- ear inflammation
- post-procedure healing
- general stiffness or discomfort in older pets
Laser therapy is used in both dogs and cats, and the treatment plan can be tailored to your pet’s specific needs.
Laser Therapy for Dogs and Cats
Laser Therapy for Dogs
Dogs often benefit from laser therapy when they are limping, stiff, slowing down, or recovering from an injury.
It may be especially helpful for dogs with:
- arthritis
- joint pain
- activity-related injuries
- post-surgical soreness
- chronic mobility changes
Many caregivers notice that their dog seems more willing to move, jump, or settle comfortably after a series of treatments.
Laser Therapy for Cats
Cats can also benefit from laser therapy, especially when they are moving less, grooming less, hiding more, or showing subtle signs of discomfort.
Laser therapy may help cats with:
- arthritis
- back discomfort
- soft tissue injuries
- inflammation
- recovery support after certain procedures
Because cats are often so quiet about pain, supportive therapies like laser treatment can play an important role in helping them feel better.
How Often Is Laser Therapy Needed?
Treatment frequency depends on the condition being treated. Some pets may need only a few sessions, while others with chronic conditions may benefit from a longer plan at first, then a reduced maintenance schedule over time.
In general:
- more recent or short-term issues may respond in fewer treatments
- chronic arthritis and long-term pain usually require a series of treatments before improvement becomes noticeable
Our veterinary team will recommend a plan based on your pet’s condition and how they respond.
Is Laser Therapy Safe?
Laser therapy is generally very safe when used appropriately. That said, not every pet is a candidate. There are situations where laser therapy may not be recommended, such as over certain tumors or during pregnancy.
Before starting treatment, our veterinary team will make sure laser therapy is appropriate for your pet.
When to Schedule an Appointment
It is always best to have your pet evaluated sooner rather than later if you think they may be in pain.
Please contact us if your pet is:
- limping
- hiding
- slowing down noticeably
- reluctant to jump or climb stairs
- licking at one area constantly
- reacting when touched
- not acting like themselves
The sooner we can determine the cause of the problem, the sooner we can help your pet feel more comfortable.
Helping Pets Feel More Like Themselves
At University Animal Clinic, pain management is about helping your pet companions return to the things they enjoy most, whether that means going for walks, jumping onto the couch, grooming normally, or simply resting without discomfort.
If you think your dog or cat may be in pain, our team is here to help families throughout Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, Bradenton, and the surrounding communities find answers and create a care plan that supports both comfort and healing.
Comfort, Healing, and Recovery Support
Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that helps reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and support healing. Many pets benefit from this gentle therapy as part of their recovery or pain management plan. Contact us to schedule a laser therapy consultation.