Calm patients, fine needles, and feline-friendly handling
Cats are masters at hiding discomfort. By the time a senior cat stops jumping onto the sofa, avoids the litter tray, or grooms less, osteoarthritis, muscle tension, or neurological changes may already be well established. Owners often worry that long-term pain medication is the only option — especially when many canine NSAIDs are unsuitable or risky for cats.
Veterinary acupuncture is one of the modalities cats frequently tolerate well. Sessions use extremely fine, sterile needles. Many cats settle into a quiet, almost meditative state once needles are placed — some purr, some doze. That calm response is not universal, but it is common enough that feline acupuncture is a core part of our TCVM and rehabilitation programmes at RehabVet.
We never force a “full” needle session on a stressed cat. Temperament guides the plan: dry-needle acupuncture when tolerated, shorter retention times when needed, and Tui Na or other gentle modalities when needles are not the right fit that day. The goal is comfort and progress — not a rigid protocol.
Looking for the wider feline rehab pathway? Start at our cat rehabilitation hub, or explore hands-on mobility work via cat physiotherapy. Treating a dog instead? See dog acupuncture.
Book a feline acupuncture assessment
New patients begin with a rehabilitation consultation so we can match acupuncture (and any combo modalities) to your cat’s condition and temperament.
TCVM needles, adapted for cats — not a scaled-down dog protocol
Feline acupuncture is a therapeutic technique rooted in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM). Fine, sterile needles are placed at specific anatomical points rich in nerve endings, blood vessels, and connective tissue. Stimulation at these points supports endorphin release, local circulation, modulation of inflammatory signalling, and autonomic nervous-system balance.
At RehabVet, cat acupuncture sits inside an integrative plan. We combine Western assessment (history, gait/mobility observations, review of imaging or bloodwork when available) with TCVM evaluation so treatment targets both the clinical problem and the pattern of imbalance. Acupuncture may be offered alone or combined with laser, physiotherapy, herbal support, or Tui Na.
Natural pain modulation
Supports the body’s own analgesic pathways — useful when long-term oral NSAIDs are limited or undesirable in cats.
Mobility & comfort
Helps ease stiffness and muscle guarding linked to osteoarthritis, so cats can navigate jumps, litter trays, and daily routines more comfortably.
Neurological support
Used as part of multimodal care for selected neurological presentations — always alongside veterinary diagnosis and rehab planning.
Calm, low-drug adjunct
Many owners choose acupuncture to complement existing medical care, including when anxiety or stress-related muscle tension is part of the picture.
Dry-needle acupuncture
The foundation of most feline plans — fine needles retained for a short, calm period while your cat rests in a low-stress position.
Electroacupuncture
Gentle electrical stimulation through needles when clinically appropriate (e.g. selected neurological or more intense pain presentations). Used only if your cat tolerates the setup.
Aquapuncture
Small-volume injections at acupoints (e.g. vitamin B12) when prolonged needle retention is not ideal for temperament.
Moxibustion
Gentle heat near selected points — sometimes helpful for older cats who feel “cold-stiff” in air-conditioned homes, when clinically indicated.
Hands-on TCVM when needles are not the day’s best tool
Not every cat wants needles on every visit — and that is fine. Tui Na is Chinese medical massage along meridian pathways and acupuncture points. It relieves muscle tension, supports joint comfort, and improves circulation without needle insertion.
We often use Tui Na as:
If your cat’s temperament is your biggest worry, say so when you book. We plan the first visit around low-stress handling — quiet pacing, minimal restraint, and modality choices that match how your cat actually behaves in the room.
Not sure if your cat will tolerate needles?
Book an assessment — we’ll discuss acupuncture, Tui Na, and other feline-suitable options before any treatment begins.
OA pain, CKD-adjacent comfort, neuro support, and stress-related muscle tension
Acupuncture is not a cure-all, and results vary by condition and individual. We use it where clinical judgement and TCVM assessment suggest meaningful benefit — often as part of a broader feline rehabilitation plan.
Osteoarthritis & chronic musculoskeletal pain
Senior cats with reduced jumping, stiffness after rest, or subtle behavioural change. Acupuncture supports comfort alongside weight management, environmental modification, and — when prescribed by your primary vet — options such as Solensia. See also <a href="/conditions/osteoarthritis-in-cats/">osteoarthritis in cats</a>.
CKD-adjacent comfort care
Cats with chronic kidney disease often carry concurrent pain, reduced mobility, or TCVM patterns of depletion. Acupuncture may be used carefully as supportive comfort care — never as a substitute for medical CKD management, bloodwork monitoring, or your primary veterinarian’s treatment plan.
Neurological support
Selected neurological presentations (e.g. vestibular recovery support, paresis/weakness pathways after veterinary diagnosis) may include acupuncture within a multimodal rehab plan with physiotherapy and laser where appropriate.
Anxiety & stress-related muscle tension
Clinic stress, household change, and chronic discomfort can show up as tight muscles and guarded posture. Acupuncture’s calming autonomic effects, plus low-stress handling, can help some cats settle — especially when tension is pain-linked.
Post-illness or post-procedure recovery
When cats need help rebuilding comfort and movement after medical illness or procedures, acupuncture may be layered with gentle physiotherapy and home environment changes.
Senior feline wellness
Ageing cats often benefit from periodic comfort-focused sessions that address stiffness, appetite/energy concerns in a TCVM frame, and quality-of-life goals defined with the owner.
Injection therapy and rehab are partners — not rivals
Solensia (frunevetmab) is a monoclonal antibody injection used for feline osteoarthritis pain, typically prescribed and administered by your primary care veterinarian on a monthly schedule. Many cats on Solensia still benefit from rehabilitation: joint-friendly movement, muscle support, environmental modification, and — where appropriate — acupuncture.
At RehabVet we do not position acupuncture as a replacement for Solensia or other medical pain strategies. We design multimodal plans: medication or injection therapy where indicated, plus acupuncture, physiotherapy, and home adaptations so comfort gains are more durable day-to-day. If your cat is already on Solensia, bring the dosing history to your consultation so we can time sessions sensibly around your medical schedule.
Learn more about the feline OA pathway on our osteoarthritis in cats page, and pair acupuncture with hands-on work via cat physiotherapy when mobility retraining is part of the goal.
Session notes, temperament, and low-stress handling
Arrival & settling
We keep the environment as calm as practical — quieter pacing, limited waiting-room chaos where possible, and time for your cat to decompress on a familiar towel or carrier bedding.
Assessment first
New patients need a rehabilitation consultation. We review history, medications (including Solensia or other analgesics), mobility and behavioural signs, and TCVM findings before recommending needles, Tui Na, or a combined plan.
Needle placement (when appropriate)
Ultra-fine sterile needles are placed with minimal restraint. Retention is typically shorter than many dog sessions — often in the 10–20 minute range — adjusted live to your cat’s tolerance.
Temperament-led adjustments
If your cat becomes restless, we remove needles early, switch to Tui Na/aquapuncture, or end the session positively. A successful visit is one your cat will return for — not the maximum needle count.
Aftercare
Mild sleepiness afterward is common. We document response, update the plan, and advise on home environment tweaks (ramps, low-sided litter trays, non-slip surfaces) that support clinic gains.
Low-stress handling is non-negotiable for feline rehab. Tell us about carrier stress, previous bad clinic experiences, or preferred handling styles. We adapt — because forced treatment undermines both welfare and outcomes.
Ready to book?
Schedule a cat assessment and we’ll map acupuncture (or Tui Na) into a clear, priced plan.
Transparent ranges — no invented package promises
Owners searching for cat acupuncture cost Singapore deserve clear figures. Market blogs sometimes quote broad ranges such as S$80–S$180. At RehabVet, sessions commonly fall in the $90–$250 range depending on whether acupuncture is standalone or combined with other modalities (for example electroacupuncture, laser, or physiotherapy elements in the same visit). Exact fees depend on complexity and are confirmed when your plan is set.
Acupuncture session (typical range)
Depends on complexity and whether acupuncture is combined with other modalities
$90 – $250
Initial rehabilitation consultation (new patients)
Off-peak $249 · Peak $299 — required before starting a treatment plan
$249 / $299
New patients begin with a veterinary rehabilitation consultation ($249 off-peak / $299 peak). That visit establishes diagnosis priorities, temperament notes, and whether acupuncture, Tui Na, physiotherapy, or a multimodal mix is the right first step. Therapy session fees are quoted separately once the plan is confirmed.
For a longer-form cost explainer (informational), see our blog: How much does cat acupuncture cost in Singapore? — then book commercially via the appointment link below so we can quote your cat’s actual pathway.
Many pet insurance policies in Singapore now consider acupuncture within rehabilitation benefits. Check your policy wording; we provide itemised invoices for claims.
WhatsApp us for a personalised quote — +65 8798 7554
Share your cat’s age, condition, and any current meds (including Solensia) for a clearer estimate.
Dedicated rehab clinic — not acupuncture as an afterthought
Singapore’s first dedicated veterinary rehabilitation clinic
Every treatment room and therapist workflow is built around rehab and recovery — including feline cases that need quieter handling and shorter, adaptable sessions.
TCVM + modern rehab under one roof
Acupuncture pairs with physiotherapy, Class 4 laser, and other modalities when clinically useful — the same integrative model used in leading veterinary rehab centres worldwide.
Honest feline suitability
We say clearly when Tui Na is better than needles today, when hydrotherapy is unlikely to suit your cat, and how acupuncture fits beside medical care such as Solensia.
Clear internal pathways
From this page you can move to the <a href="/services/cat-rehabilitation/">cat rehab hub</a>, <a href="/services/cat-physiotherapy/">cat physiotherapy</a>, or compare with <a href="/services/dog-acupuncture/">dog acupuncture</a> if you have both species at home.
Start your cat’s acupuncture plan
Book online — mention feline acupuncture so we can prepare a low-stress first visit.
Answers Singapore cat owners ask most
At RehabVet, acupuncture sessions commonly fall in the $90–$250 range depending on whether acupuncture is standalone or combined with other modalities. New patients require an initial rehabilitation consultation at $249 (off-peak) or $299 (peak). For a general market overview, see our blog on cat acupuncture cost in Singapore; for a personalised quote, book an assessment or WhatsApp +65 8798 7554.
Many cats tolerate fine acupuncture needles surprisingly well and become calm once needles are in place. Tolerance varies by temperament, pain level, and clinic stress. We use low-stress handling, shorter retention times when needed, and can switch to Tui Na for needle-shy cats rather than forcing a full needle session.
When performed by trained veterinary practitioners using sterile, single-use needles, acupuncture has a strong safety profile. Mild temporary sleepiness or local sensitivity can occur. We screen medical history (including CKD, hyperthyroidism, and concurrent medications) before recommending a plan. Acupuncture does not replace emergency care or primary medical treatment.
Acupuncture is commonly used as part of multimodal care for feline osteoarthritis pain and stiffness. It may be combined with weight management, environmental modification, physiotherapy, and medical options such as Solensia when prescribed by your primary vet. Read more on osteoarthritis in cats.
Yes — Solensia (frunevetmab) and acupuncture are often complementary rather than mutually exclusive. Solensia addresses OA pain via nerve-growth-factor pathways; acupuncture and rehab support comfort, muscle function, and daily mobility. Bring your Solensia schedule to the consultation so we can coordinate timing. We do not sell Solensia as a replacement for your primary vet’s prescribing role.
Tell us in advance. Options include shorter dry-needle sessions, aquapuncture, or Tui Na massage as the primary TCVM modality. A positive, low-stress visit matters more than completing a textbook needle map.
It depends on whether the issue is acute or chronic. Acute discomfort may be reassessed after a small cluster of sessions; chronic osteoarthritis or long-standing mobility change often starts with more frequent visits, then tapers to maintenance if the cat responds. We set expectations at the consultation and adjust based on observed comfort and behaviour at home — we do not quote fixed success rates.
No referral is required to book at RehabVet. We still value records from your primary veterinarian — especially bloodwork for senior or CKD cats, imaging, and medication lists. You can book online or WhatsApp +65 8798 7554.
Principles are shared, but feline sessions emphasise quieter handling, shorter retention, and a lower threshold to switch to Tui Na. Condition mix also differs — feline OA behaviour signs, CKD comorbidities, and Solensia multimodal plans feature more often than large-breed orthopaedic surgery pathways typical in dogs. Compare with our dog acupuncture page if you share a multi-pet household.
Yes. Many feline plans combine acupuncture for comfort with cat physiotherapy for mobility, strength, and home exercise coaching. Your therapist will recommend sequencing so sessions stay within your cat’s stress budget.
Book cat acupuncture at RehabVet
Transparent pricing, feline-aware handling, and a clear plan after your first consultation.
My family and I would like to thank RehabVet team for the care, dedication, and professionalism shown to our beloved Border Collie, Patches. During his rehabilitation journey, the therapists and staff were always patient, compassionate, and willing to answer our questions. It was evident that they genuinely cared about his well-being and worked hard to help him maintain the best quality of life possible.
Clean environment and knowledgeable people who loves pets. Highly recommended.
Great place for rehab and therapist
The only place that Aiko loves so wholeheartedly, greeting all staffs cheerfully the moment she enters and resting on their thighs after hydrotherapy so peacefully. The trust and demure of your dog tells it all. No bias or pre-conceived perceptions. We were surprised that the first five hydrotherapy sessions have helped to strengthen her hips and improve her level of energy. Sean is just the consummate professional!
This clinic combines effective treatment, compassionate handling, and up-to-date evidence-based rehabilitation tools. My dog has experienced very visible improvement after just a few sessions with them. Very effective. Many pet owners I spoke to at the clinic also gives it a thumbs up. They have a team of well trained and very caring professionals. I have not seen any dogs that are not comfortable with them over here. 👍🏻
We visited Rehabvet as Bruno was having some mobility issues with his hind legs. We had an excellent experience. They structured a massage / exercise / hydro schedule that worked wonders. Bruno is feeling much better now.
This is the best rehab clinic for my dog.
We've been bringing Kuma to RehabVet for physiotherapy and the experience has been outstanding. The team truly cares for every fur patient, and you can feel the warmth and dedication the moment you walk in. A special thank you to Hazel, Kuma's therapist, who is incredibly patient, attentive, and knowledgeable. She not only conducts the sessions with great care but also provides practical advice for us to continue strengthening Kuma's muscles at home and the results really show. Thank you as well to Dr. Sara, Xan, and the entire RehabVet team for the love and professionalism you show to every pet. If your furkid needs rehabilitation or physiotherapy, RehabVet is truly a place you can trust.
Had a very positive experience at the rehab vet. The entire team was professional, gentle, and reassuring throughout the session. Dr Sara was especially wonderful — knowledgeable, patient, and took the time to explain everything clearly without rushing. You can tell she genuinely cares about the animals and their recovery. The facility has also just been renovated and is very clean, modern, and calm, making it a comfortable and conducive environment for both pets and owners. Highly recommended.
We're truly grateful to Dr. Sara, the entire RehabVet team, and especially Xan, who has been exceptionally detailed and patient. The whole team has shown such genuine care throughout Milo's recovery journey. Milo was diagnosed with IVDD Grade 3 in late June 2025. Although he hasn't fully recovered yet, we've seen significant improvement over the past 3.5 months with pain relief treatments, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, acupuncture, and regular exercise sessions. We believe that slowly but surely, Milo will make a full recovery. Never give up!
Haru has been going to rehabvet since Nov 2025 to manage his mobility caused by luxating patellar and hip dysplasia. Thus far, we witnessed huge improvements thru several methods of rehabilitation such as ultrasound/laser therapy, land exercises and hydrotherapy! Aside from the treatments, what made us continue with them is the hospitality of the staff! They are always so welcoming and you could feel the warmth everytime you step into the clinic! Also, they treat your furkid with love and respect. Highly recommended.
I can't recommend RehabVet highly enough! My Happy, a pomeranian with patella luxation grade 3 on her left hind leg and hip dysplasia, has made incredible progress since starting physiotherapy here. The team is so knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely caring. All the therapists were fantastic and tailored the sessions perfectly to Happy's needs. The facilities are clean and well-equipped, and my dog always seemed comfortable and even enjoyed their sessions. If your furry friend needs some extra support, look no further than RehabVet!
We've been taking our dog to Rehab Vet Singapore for about 6–7 years, mainly for EMF therapy, water treadmill sessions, and joint and muscle supplements. After her hip surgery, she needed a comprehensive recovery plan, and the team here has provided just that and more. Their treatments have helped her regain strength and mobility, and the long-term maintenance has been invaluable in keeping her active and comfortable. The staff is knowledgeable, caring, and always focused on her needs. We truly appreciate the dedication they've shown over the years – highly recommend!
Went to RehabVet for a second opinion on a serious limp my husky had developed. They were exceptionally knowledgeable, gave practical advice and were very generous with their time. We moved forward with treatment and the non invasive options they gave have made him much more comfortable and the future is promising. From the first time I reached out via whatsapp they gave clear helpful advice, follow up on treatment, pictures, liaised with pet transportation and more. A really amazing full service experience. Thank you very much.
As a fur mummy, finding people who genuinely care for and love our babies is so important. I've found exactly that here, especially with Judette, Xan, Noelle, and Joyce. My babies, Barley (17yo cat) and Lexi (9yo dog), come in for pain management and rehab sessions, and I'm always completely comfortable with how they're treated. The team is incredibly patient, gentle, and kind, and it shows in the way they handle my pets. So grateful to have found a rehab centre I truly trust. Highly recommended.
My Shih Tzu, August, has osteoarthritis and he was unable to walk. We took him to RehabVet Clinic after reading good reviews about it on Google. Since November 2023, he has been having therapy here and has shown improvement in his mobility under the tender loving care from Dr Sara Lam and the staff members, with special mention and appreciation to Angeline, Joyce, Hui Tze and Shaun. My Puppy King will continue his treatment here as we have trust in this lovely team. Thank you!
Bubble has been with Rehab Vet for years as he grows older and manages his luxating patella. I am truly grateful to Doc Sara, Xan, Sean, Joyce, and the entire rehab team for always taking such wonderful care of Bubble and watching over him during every session. Bubble came from a condition whereby he couldn't even walk, he was paralysed. But really thankful to rehab vet that made the impossible, became possible. Thank you Doc Sara & all Rehab Team
Great team! Brought my dog Bunny in for a consultation because her luxating patella was getting worse. Bunny is an anxious dog so I expected her to be a handful during the consult but she was very calm in the therapists' presence! Shout out to Xan and Noelle for helping her feel at ease in a foreign place. I love the clinic's interior as well, the warm lights and pastel colours are very welcoming for both me and Bunny :)
Rehabvet was recommended to us by our vet because our dog dislocated her hip when she was a puppy. We've been going to Rehabvet for several years now and their standard of care has been consistently high throughout. Special shoutout to Sean for always trying his best to make her visits as comfortable as possible 👍 (She gets easily anxious)!!
Having been to several vets and rehabs with my senior Shih Tzu, my experience at RehabVet has been the best. My only regret was not bringing him here sooner when his issues first came up! My very anxious 15 year old kiddo was diagnosed with IVDD and is unable to move all his limbs voluntarily at all times. After the initial testing and diagnosis by Dr. Sara, he has had a few trips to the Hyperbaric O2 Therapy, Laser Therapy, and Electrical Stimulation with massages. Now, I can tell that he is in less pain and is also more comfortable and less anxious. I would highly recommend RehabVet to anyone thinking about it!
I can't thank Xan and his team at RehabVet enough for the incredible care they've given my dog. After a sudden incident where my dog started dragging both hind legs, the vet diagnosed him with IVDD stage 2. I decided to try physio at RehabVet, and it was the best decision I could have made. Within just 2-3 sessions, my dog's hind legs showed significant improvement—they were no longer wobbly. Now, after 7-8 sessions, he's regained his mobility and is even jumping around at home again. Xan's patience and dedication made all the difference. I highly recommend RehabVet to anyone in need of compassionate, effective care for their pet.
Always a pleasant experience here at RehabVet- clean area, calm ambience and super patient therapists. Staff are very willing to share tips on home care massages and explain in detail how our pups muscles work, gait observation and strength training for them!
Sean is an incredibly caring and skilled rehab therapist. He's gentle, patient, and truly treats every dog like his own. We saw clear improvement in our dog's mobility, and sessions are always handled with professionalism and compassion. Highly recommend!
Have a wonderful experience with the team at Rehab Vet. The staff are warm, friendly, and always patient in answering our enquiries. Their care and professionalism make every visit reassuring.
My senior dog has been with rehabvet since Sept 2025 after her leg surgery. We're happy to see improvement! Everyone is helpful and friendly here. Thanks rehabvet team!
Newly renovated place, more conducive for therapy sessions. Therapists are experienced in handling older dogs. Have been sending my 18 year old dog for therapy for more than a year.
The therapists are patient and helped improved my dog's arthritis condition. They taught us how to massage his joints and told us to use heat therapy.
My dog has been coming to rehabs for hips dysplasia at a young age of 2 years old & now is 10 years old & condition did not detoriate - glad we started early.
Mochi enjoys his physio sessions with Rehabvet. His LP grade reduced from 3 to 2 with regular weekly sessions. The therapists are friendly and always make sure the sessions intensity are suitable for him.
We've sent both our dogs to RehabVet for some years now. Thanks to the staff for always being so welcoming and caring. Butter loves his swim here.
