Cats are such interesting creatures. They have that independent streak and are cuddly when they wish to be. The feeling of a cat lying in the crook of my arm while taking a nap is such a relaxing feeling.

Cats are hunters. They are sleek, toned, alert, and agile. When something moves they notice. They can jump on high surfaces and are so light on their feet that it seems effortless. They have no clavicles (collar bone) so they are able to squeeze through spaces much smaller than you would think. Their whiskers are highly sensitive to help them locate where they are in space. They love to groom themselves and can be picky about much in their environment..

As an animal chiropractor I see some cats, but noticeably less than dogs. Cats stretch and stay limber. Their hind legs are longer in proportion to the length of their spines so jumping and pouncing are very efficient for them. When someone calls about a cat, it is likely an accident of some sort (cat hit by closing door, etc.) or an older cat. As with any quadriped, as time marches on the joints of the spine, knees, elbows, etc. all get stiff with small or large amounts of arthritic changes. Movement helps these stiff areas but sometimes is painful. When chiropractors adjust a facet joint (what we call the joints in the vertebral column), a neurological signal is sent into the spinal cord, which communicates with other nerves which inhibits or lessens the nerves that carry pain. So adjustments help allow more motion while decreasing pain. In addition, adjustments increase the range of motion of the joint involved and lessen the resistance to motion. When the nerves are free from pressure (misalignments, adhesions, tight, short, or weak muscles) the nervous system works more efficiently.

If you have any questions about your cat ask your veterinarian or send me an email.