Red light therapy can be a great alternative therapy for cats suffering from pain caused by muscle stiffness and joint soreness. It can also be very advantageous in wound healing, whether your cat has an abscess caused by fighting other cats, or a surgical wound, red light therapy, or low-level laser therapy as it is also known, can stimulate cellular function and improve wound healing whilst decreasing inflammation.
Anyone who has ever owned or looked after a feline furry friend will know that cats are absolute experts at doing exactly what they want, and if they have a chronic condition that requires regular medication then you need to become an even better expert at getting them to take that medication! Unlike their canine companions who will happily eat anything wrapped up in a tasty piece of ham or cheese, cats can detect even the tiniest of pills from the fishiest of foods and will punish you for trying to trick them by not eating anything more for a week. Then you have the almost impossible job of trying to get the medicine down the cat's throat without it savaging you, and you only get one chance at that before they become wise to it!
Red light therapy is a non-invasive, non-painful and drug-free alternative for treating certain conditions in cats and can have an overall positive impact on their quality of life as it can boost energy levels too. It may also have a positive impact on your life if you don't have to fight with your feline friend anymore!
How Does Red Light Therapy Work?
The process of photobiomodulation occurs when the red and near-infrared light from a red light therapy device penetrates the skin and begins to activate the mitochondria (otherwise known as the powerhouses) of the cells, stimulating the production of ATP, or adenosine triphosphate. ATP is a molecule that stores and transfers energy within a cell, and by increasing the production of energy, cells are able to repair themselves more efficiently, which in turn promotes healing, regeneration and overall improved function ot the targeted cells.
By increasing blood flow to the area and promoting tissue regeneration, the activated cells are able to help reduce inflammation and improve circulation therefore alleviating pain, especially connected with chronic musculoskeletal conditions like arthritis, and can help reduce inflammation and itchiness associated with chronic skin conditions such as feline dermatitis.
Is Red Light Therapy Safe for Cats?
Overall, red light therapy is considered a safe treatment for cats, but before you begin any new therapy or treatment, it is always advisable to consult with your vet first. Certain underlying conditions may not benefit from using red light therapy, and there may be adverse effects when used in combination with certain medications, so it is important to tailor the treatment to your cat's specific needs.
That said, it is generally thought to be a safe, effective and easy option that can be used at home to help improve your cat's quality of life.