What Is Acupuncture ?

In practise for thousands of years, acupuncture is a form of medicinal practise that traces its routes to the ancient Chinese texts. According to it, a healthy animal has a circulation of energy, or life force called Chi, along well-defined channels on the skin called meridians. These meridians are connected to the internal organs, muscular and joint structures and the nervous system. Acupuncture points are points on these meridians where the flow of "chi" can be influenced. In diseased animals the flow of energy gets disturbed. In such a situation, the acupuncturist can manipulate the energy flows by stimulating the acupuncture points, thus rectifying the disorder. To treat the malady one needs to identify the problem correctly. This involves finding out : o The meridians that pass through the area. o The point of stimulation to relieve the pain. o The method of stimulation to be used. o The other "special points" that will help decrease the pain.

In brief, first specific points on the affected meridian are selected and stimulated with either needles or a laser beam. After this, points that would be beneficial for the pain are stimulated and finally special points would prevent an inflammation are stimulated Acupuncture - Some Important Points

Though it is being used in conjunction with and at times even as a replacement for surgery it is known to have a sedating effect on cats sometimes leading to a dull and listless cat. At times, it is also used after the surgery to hasten recuperation. Off late, laser technology is also being used as a replacement to traditional acupuncture practices as it is less painful. It is also quicker taking about 20 minutes. Laser also reduces the chances of the cat getting any infection.

Acupuncture - Benefits

Conditions in cats that respond well to acupuncture include: Internal organs like an inflammation in the liver or hepatitis. Musculo-skeletal problems like treatment of arthritic disorders or muscular injuries.

Gynaecological problems in female cats including, anestrus, metritis, dystocia, retained placenta, agalactia, mastitis and mesalliance. In male cats reproductive problems like impotence, orchitis, epididymitis and libido are curable. Hormonal disorders including pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid functions and adrenal functions. Blood sugar levels can be cured to a large extent by stimulating the insulin production. Anxiety, epilepsy and behavioural disorders are also curable to a large extent by acupuncture treatments.

Conditions That Do Not Benefit from Acupuncture in Cats

Eye problems like cataract are difficult to treat. Bruises and sores take longer to treat if the treatment is not in conjunction with other forms of medicine. Dialysis and other such problems in the kidney are difficult to treat. Fractures and other such regressive splints.