The Benefits of Exotic Animal Acupuncture

If your exotic animal is experiencing pain, certain medical problems, or chronic illnesses, acupuncture has proven to be a very beneficial treatment option for a vast majority of patients. Find out more about exotic animal acupuncture by reading our article below.

What is Exotic Animal Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a treatment that has been used extensively for decades in humans and pets, including exotic animals. Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years. It uses specific points on the body. These acupuncture points are located in or near muscles, blood vessels, lymph vessels, or nerves.

When stimulated, the area will transmit a signal through the body, which will cause a variety of healing type reactions. Acupuncture has been proven to help with inflammation, pain, wound healing, and to improve the body’s immune system, among many other benefits.

Acupuncture can involve dry needling with very small, sterile needles inserted into specific points, electric stimulation of the acupuncture needles, therapeutic laser at specific points, injection of sterile fluids or medications into a point, massage and pressure at specific points, or a combination of the above.

It is important to consult an expert (Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist) so that the proper treatment is being administered with the needles placed in their anatomically proper location, because the procedure could cause harm if performed incorrectly.

Reasons to Consider Exotic Animal Acupuncture

Acupuncture can be used as treatment for arthritis and inflammation as well as a variety of other medical conditions. It can also be used as a support for more traditional medical therapy.

Acupuncture can be used to treat:

• Traumatic nerve injuries
• Intervertebral disk disease
• Degenerative myelopathy
• Epilepsy
• Central nervous system disorders
• Asthma
• Allergic dermatitis
• Chronic pain
• Degenerative joint diseases and arthritis
• Cancer
• Metabolic Disease
• Digestive issues
•  Anxiety
• Respiratory diseases
• Chronic medical conditions

Benefits of Exotic Animal Acupuncture

The benefits of acupuncture will be determined by what condition is being treated, how experienced your acupuncturist is, how early you begin treatment, how often treatment is being administered, and what other medications or therapies are also being used to treat the problem.

Things to Consider

Checking with Your Exotic Vet First

Your veterinarian can recommend a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist in your locality. In addition, if your pet has a blood clotting problem, has cancer, has seizures, or is on certain medications, special considerations need to be taken.

Finding a Reputable Acupuncture Practitioner

Make sure they are certified and have good ratings. If at any point leading up to the appointment you feel uncomfortable, you can leave.

Cost of Acupuncture

The cost of acupuncture for your pet will vary depending on a number of factors. The type of pet you have is a key factor. Other things that contribute to the cost are the length of each appointment, the number of appointments, and the frequency of appointments.

Doing Research

You can find good information on the alternative veterinary medicine website and the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can My Rabbit Get Acupuncture?

Yes, rabbits can benefit from veterinary acupuncture.

Can My Rodent Get Acupuncture?

Yes, large rodents such as guinea pigs and rats can get veterinary acupuncture. However, the smaller the rodent, the harder it is to properly administer acupuncture treatment.

Can My Bird Get Acupuncture?

Yes, birds can get veterinary acupuncture. It is easier on larger birds and may be more challenging on smaller birds. Many birds will need to be restrained in a towel for the treatment procedure. Chickens and ducks can tolerate acupuncture very well.

Can My Reptile Get Acupuncture?

Some reptiles can get acupuncture. The larger the reptile, the easier it is. Also some acupuncture points are inaccessible due to special anatomy, such as shells in turtles and tortoises, or lack of limbs in snakes.

Can My Non-human Primate Get Acupuncture?

Yes, Non-human primates can benefit from veterinary acupuncture.

Can My Ferret Get Acupuncture?

Yes, ferrets can get acupuncture. It is important to start small, though, as they can be very picky about what will and won’t work.

Acupuncture is Beneficial for Exotic Pets

Acupuncture is an old tradition that in recent years has shown great benefit for animals. As with any treatment, it is important to consult your vet and an expert before beginning.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an exotic animal acupuncture session for your pet, reach out to Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital of Louisiana by giving us a call at (504) 455-6386.