The Most Common Chiropractic Techniques for Cats

Written and verified by the biotechnologist Alejandro Rodríguez

Last update: 22 December, 2022

Just like us, cats can suffer from imbalances or injuries that often affect them and their daily movements. To help correct this, there are chiropractic techniques that will help your cat regain his mobility. Today, we’ll tell you about the most common chiropractic techniques for cats.

What are chiropractic techniques?

When a cat—or any animal—gets hit, falls, is subjected to intense exercise, or has age-related problems, then its general mobility can be seriously affected. 

Chiropractics techniques are, therefore, complementary to veterinary medicine. They are focused on treating what is known as biomechanical dysfunctions, aka joint movement.

Through a series of precise adjustments and movements, chiropractors try to re-align our pet’s bones and, therefore, improve its biomechanics. 

When to resort to chiropractic techniques for cats

Although these problems aren’t always visible, there are different symptoms or signs that can indicate that our cat has a mobility problem:

• Firstly, difficulty climbing or going downstairs or other obstacles.
• Also, when they can’t raise their tail correctly.
• In addition to that, he may find it difficult to sit.
• And, finally, when walking, the animal tends to limp.

Additionally, chiropractic techniques can also be helpful if your cat has undergone some type of surgery. However, first and foremost, it’s extremely important that you talk to your vet or an animal chiropractic professional before you try any of these chiropractic techniques for cats.

What are the most common techniques?

Many of these techniques apply to cats, dogs, and other small animals. The most common are:

• Working the hip flexor muscles: performing a series of gentle flexion and pressure movements will improve flexibility in the animal’s hip and spine.
• Stretching the shoulder muscles: doing these stretches with your cat will help him move correctly. Additionally, it will help relieve the strength in his shoulders.
• Stretching his back: improving back mobility will definitely be very beneficial for your cat. His general mobility will improve and you’ll be able to decrease his body tension.

There are many other chiropractic techniques that you can use. They all just depend on the joint area that needs help. If you want to know more, don’t hesitate to talk to your veterinarian.