Feline Veterinary Physiotherapy
Supporting Comfort, Mobility & Quality of Life in Cats
Cats are experts at hiding pain and discomfort. Changes in movement, behaviour or activity levels are often subtle, meaning musculoskeletal and neurological issues can go unnoticed for some time. Feline veterinary physiotherapyplays an important role in identifying these changes early and supporting cats to move more comfortably and confidently throughout their lives.
At Paws & Claws Veterinary Physiotherapy, we provide gentle, evidence-based physiotherapy for cats, delivered with a Fear Free, Cat Friendly approach and always under veterinary referral or consent.
How can Physiotherapy Help Cats?
Physiotherapy aims to:
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Reduce pain and muscular tension
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Improve joint mobility and flexibility
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Support strength, balance and coordination
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Slow the progression of degenerative conditions
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Improve confidence and overall quality of life
Treatment is always tailored to the individual cat, taking into account their temperament, medical history and home environment.
Conditions Commonly Treated
Feline physiotherapy can be beneficial for cats experiencing:
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Osteoarthritis and age-related stiffness
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Reduced mobility or reluctance to jump
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Post-operative recovery (orthopaedic or soft tissue surgery)
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Neurological conditions affecting movement or coordination
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Soft tissue injuries or muscle weakness
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Chronic pain or reduced activity levels
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Senior cats experiencing mobility decline
Physiotherapy may also be helpful for cats showing behavioural changes linked to discomfort, such as reduced grooming, irritability or withdrawal.
What to Expect from a Physiotherapy Session
Initial Assessment
The first appointment includes a thorough assessment, which may involve:
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Observation of posture and movement
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Gentle palpation of muscles and joints
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Range of motion assessment
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Neurological screening where appropriate
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Discussion of behaviour, lifestyle and home setup
Sessions are conducted at the cat’s pace, with handling kept calm, minimal and respectful.
Treatment Plan
Based on the assessment findings, an individualised treatment plan may include:
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Manual therapies (such as soft tissue techniques)
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Gentle therapeutic exercises
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Mobility and movement support
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Pain management modalities, including laser therapy where appropriate
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Home advice and environmental modifications
All treatments are adapted to suit feline tolerance and comfort.
Fear Free & Cat Friendly Care
Cats often find unfamiliar environments stressful. We are committed to:
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Low-stress handling techniques
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Quiet, calm treatment spaces
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Short, positive sessions where needed
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Respecting feline choice and comfort
This approach helps reduce anxiety, improves cooperation and allows more effective treatment.
Working With Your Veterinary Surgeon
Feline physiotherapy is provided in collaboration with your veterinary practice. Veterinary referral or consent is required prior to treatment, ensuring all physiotherapy input is safe, appropriate and aligned with your cat’s medical care.
Where appropriate, feedback and progress updates can be shared with your vet.
Supporting Cats at Home
Owners play a vital role in supporting their cat’s comfort. Physiotherapy sessions often include:
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Simple, practical home exercises (where appropriate)
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Advice on litter tray access, sleeping areas and jumping heights
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Environmental adjustments to reduce strain and discomfort
These small changes can make a significant difference to daily comfort.
Is Feline Physiotherapy Right for Your Cat?
If your cat is:
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Jumping less or hesitating on stairs
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Sleeping more or becoming less active
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Showing changes in grooming or behaviour
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Living with a diagnosed musculoskeletal or neurological condition
Physiotherapy may help support their comfort and wellbeing.