Chiro for Cats vs. Dogs

• Posted on 12 August 2015
• By Dr. Jill Tack
• Posted in chiro sessions, chiropractic care for cats, chiropractic care for dogs, Christina Cole, how is chiropractic care for cats different from dogs, pet chiropractor
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Dr. Cole is back on our blog today to answer another one of your frequently asked questions: How does chiropractic care differ between cats and dogs?

Dr. Cole is back on our blog today to answer another one of your frequently asked questions: How does chiropractic care differ between cats and dogs?

There isn't too much of a difference between chiropractic care for dogs versus that for cats. The examination for both is quite similar, though each joint has a different level of mobility when comparing the two. Cats cannot be treated as tiny canines nor can dogs be treated like mammoth felines. The two have distinct anatomy that must be taken into account. For instance, the jaws of the two differ on multiple accounts including the number of teeth and the placement. The way food is masticated (chewed) is different; therefore the way the jaw is adjusted is different in cats and dogs. The amount of force for adjusting any animal is also altered based on size, age, etc., so taking species into account is just one more factor.

Beyond the actual anatomical differences, cats tend to hold their adjustments for a greater period of time. They tend to be less active and encounter fewer “distractions” that dogs might meet on a daily basis. For instance, one of the big issues I see with dogs is related to the way they walk on a leash. Pullers tend to have lower neck and shoulder problems. Cats however, are hardly ever walked on a leash and even if they are, tend not to be pulling after a squirrel or a falling leaf. You may also note that cats sleep… often. They stretch when they want, play when they want, eat when they want, and really don’t overexert themselves in any capacity. Some may say they are the smarter of the two species based on this alone. Because a cat knows how to take care of him or herself, the actual structure of the body will hold an adjustment for a longer period of time than a dog's body would.

Unless of course your cat runs to greet you at the door every time you come home and then runs into walls, the likelihood of them needing to be adjusted on a monthly basis is diminished. Because of their activity level and standard level of crazy, dogs need to be seen more regularly just to keep their bodies in tip-top shape!

For more information or to schedule a session, call the store today at 248-548-3448. Please note that all chiropractic care is given with the consent of a veterinarian, veterinarian referral, or in a veterinarian office. If you’ve scheduled an appointment, please bring this completed form with you.