Laser treatment of dogs and cats

Laser treatment of dogs and cats, also called photobiomodulation, can be used as a supplement for certain pain conditions, injuries and rehabilitation processes. The treatment is non-invasive, takes a few minutes, is performed without sedation or anesthesia, and can be repeated as needed.

What is laser treatment?

In photobiomodulation, light with specific wavelengths is directed at the tissue. The light energy is absorbed by molecules in the cells and can affect, among other things, mitochondrial activity and ATP production, signaling pathways in the cell, inflammatory processes and local blood circulation. The extent of the response depends on the wavelength, effect, dose, treatment area and which tissue is treated.

We use a Companion CTC from LiteCure – a class IV therapy laser that works with two wavelengths, 980 and 810 nanometers. The treatment is given with a handpiece that is passed over the area to be treated.

What does the research say?

We believe it is right to be clear here, because laser treatment is often marketed more strongly than the evidence supports. Systematic reviews of veterinary studies find mixed results, and there is currently no scientific consensus on which dose, wavelength or treatment frequency is optimal. The quality of studies varies considerably.

There is veterinary documentation for use in, among other things, muscle and joint pain and certain wound conditions, and that is also where we use it most – but the results vary between studies, diagnoses and treatment protocols. Laser treatment is a supplement to other treatment, not a substitute for assessment, pain relief or surgery when that is what the patient needs.

When might it be relevant?

• Osteoarthritis and other chronic joint pain conditions
• Acute injuries to muscles, tendons and ligaments
• Stress injuries and muscle strains
• Wounds that heal slowly
• Surgical wounds and rehabilitation after surgery

Because the treatment requires neither medication nor anesthesia, it may be appropriate for patients who do not tolerate painkillers well, or for whom other interventions are not suitable.

For chronic pain, laser is one part of an overall plan. For osteoarthritis, weight control in obese patients is one of the best documented non-drug measures, along with adapted activity and rehabilitation. Painkilling treatment may also be necessary. We always assess what is causing the symptoms before we start treatment.

How a treatment is carried out

The animal lies or sits quietly while the handpiece is moved over the area. Most people find it comfortable – it feels like a gentle warmth. The settings are adjusted to the type of tissue, the size of the area and what is being treated. The number of treatments depends on the condition: acute problems often need fewer, while chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis are followed up over time. We assess the response along the way and adjust accordingly.

Safety

A Class IV laser is powerful enough to damage the retina with direct exposure. Therefore, both the patient and the staff wear protective glasses during the entire treatment – ​​these are the glasses you see in the pictures below. Correct dosage and technique are also essential, as too much energy at one point can cause heat generation in the tissue.

We do not treat directly over known or suspected tumors, over the eyes, over areas of active bleeding, or over a pregnant uterus. For other conditions that require caution – including the use of photosensitizing drugs and hyperthyroidism (high metabolism) – treatment is considered individually. When used correctly, side effects are rare, and the animal can go home immediately afterwards with no recovery time.

Therapy laser and surgical laser are not the same

A-Vet has two different laser systems with different purposes. The Companion CTC described on this page is used for photobiomodulation. We also have an ARC Laser FOX, an 810 nm diode laser that is used for selected eye procedures where controlled thermal impact on the tissue is desired. Both use laser light, but the treatment principles and applications are different. You can find both in the overview above our equipment.

If you are wondering whether laser treatment might be appropriate for your animal, we are happy to discuss it in a consultationYou will find an overview of general prices here..