Singapore’s first dedicated veterinary rehabilitation clinic — built for cats as well as dogs
Cats are not small dogs. Their pain presentation, stress response, and drug options differ enough that a canine-first physiotherapy programme often fails them. At RehabVet, cat physiotherapy is delivered as a distinct clinical pathway: quieter rooms, shorter sessions, minimal restraint, and land-based techniques chosen for feline tolerance — not simply scaled-down dog protocols.
Whether your cat has slowed jumping, is recovering after orthopaedic or soft-tissue surgery, shows neurological weakness, or needs safer activity while losing weight, our veterinary rehabilitation team designs a plan around how cats actually move and cope in clinic.
Feline-first handling culture
Quiet scheduling, pheromone support where helpful, and sessions paced to your cat’s stress threshold — not a fixed dog-length appointment template.
Land-based physiotherapy preferred
Manual therapy, play-based therapeutic exercise, Class 4 laser, and other dry-land modalities form the core of most feline programmes. We do not push hydrotherapy when it is unlikely to help.
Vet-supervised rehabilitation
Every programme sits under veterinary oversight led by Dr. Sara Lam BVSc. Therapists adapt techniques for feline anatomy, temperament, and pain-masking behaviour.
Measured progress, realistic goals
We track functional goals that matter for cats — jumping comfort, litter-tray access, grooming quality, and willingness to move — rather than inventing percentage “success rates.”
One-on-one sessions only
Your cat is never part of a group class. Each visit is individual, short enough to stay productive, and adjusted in real time if stress rises.
Book a Cat Assessment
Start with a feline-focused physiotherapy assessment. We’ll confirm whether rehab is appropriate and outline a calm, realistic plan.
Behavioural clues usually appear before an obvious limp
Cats evolved to hide vulnerability. By the time a limp is obvious, many feline patients have already been living with discomfort for months. Owners often attribute the change to “just getting old” — when the real driver is treatable musculoskeletal or neurological pain.
Common behavioural signs that warrant a mobility assessment include:
If several of these changes have appeared together, a feline physiotherapy assessment is a reasonable next step — ideally alongside a check with your primary vet. Learn more about underdiagnosed joint disease on our osteoarthritis in cats page.
Treating a dog? Our canine pathway is separate — see dog physiotherapy for land-based and hydrotherapy options tailored to dogs.
Veterinary physical therapy adapted for feline anatomy, stress biology, and drug constraints
Cat physiotherapy — also called feline physiotherapy or veterinary physical therapy for cats — uses evidence-informed physical techniques to reduce pain, maintain joint range, rebuild muscle, and restore everyday function. At RehabVet, programmes typically draw on modalities cats tolerate well:
The scientific principles overlap with canine and human physiotherapy — but dosing, session length, handling style, and home programmes are rewritten for cats. A successful feline session is often quieter, shorter, and more play-led than a dog session of the same clinical goal.
Stress is a clinical variable — we plan around it
A frightened cat cannot demonstrate true mobility, will not accept meaningful manual therapy, and may associate the clinic with threat. Low-stress handling is therefore not a soft “nice to have” — it is part of the treatment method.
Quieter rooms and pacing
We reduce auditory and visual clutter where possible, allow settling time, and avoid rushing straight into hands-on work.
Pheromone support
Feline pheromone sprays or diffusers may be used to lower arousal before and during assessment, alongside calm carrier handling advice for owners.
Shorter, productive sessions
Many cats do better with focused visits than long marathon appointments. We prioritise the highest-value techniques and stop before stress escalates.
Minimal restraint
Forced immobilisation undermines trust and can worsen defensive behaviour. We use towel wraps or light support only when needed, and never as a default.
Owner partnership
You know your cat’s cues. We invite your observations, teach home strategies, and adjust the plan when clinic tolerance is limited.
Some cats need several short introductory visits before full treatment is practical. That is clinically normal — and usually preferable to a single stressful session that achieves little.
Talk to us about your cat
Unsure whether your cat will cope in clinic? WhatsApp or book — we’ll advise honestly before you commit to a full programme.
Osteoarthritis, post-operative recovery, neurological support, and weight-related mobility strain
Cat physiotherapy at RehabVet is most often requested for the following clinical pictures. Suitability is always assessed individually — including medical stability, pain control, and stress tolerance.
Osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease
Feline OA is common in mature and senior cats yet frequently missed. Physiotherapy supports joint comfort, muscle preservation, and safer daily movement — complemented by home environment changes and feline-safe analgesia from your vet. See also osteoarthritis in cats.
Post-operative rehabilitation
After fracture repair, soft-tissue surgery, or orthopaedic procedures, gentle early physio can help maintain range of motion and limit disuse atrophy once your surgeon confirms it is safe to begin.
Neurological conditions
Cats with spinal disease, traumatic nerve injury, or other neurological deficits may benefit from proprioceptive work, assisted standing, and carefully graded movement — within feline tolerance and veterinary guidance.
Obesity and weight-related strain
Extra body weight increases joint load and reduces activity. Physiotherapy can provide structured, low-stress movement while your vet guides nutrition — never as a substitute for a weight plan, but as a safer way to rebuild fitness.
Geriatric mobility decline
Senior cats often lose strength, balance, and confidence together. Short land-based sessions plus home modifications (ramps, low-entry litter trays, non-slip surfaces) can meaningfully improve quality of life.
Soft-tissue injury and stiffness
Muscle strains, compensatory tension, and post-injury stiffness may respond to manual therapy and graded exercise when inflammation is controlled.
| Clinical focus | Typical physiotherapy role | Owner priority at home |
|---|---|---|
| Osteoarthritis | Comfort modalities, gentle mobilisation, strength maintenance | Low-entry litter tray, warm beds, easier access to favoured perches |
| Post-operative recovery | Early range-of-motion and graded loading when cleared | Activity restriction as advised; short play-based drills later |
| Neurological weakness | Proprioception, assisted standing, controlled weight-bearing | Safe flooring, supervised mobility, prevent falls from heights |
| Obesity / deconditioning | Low-impact movement within joint comfort | Portion control with your vet; short daily play sessions |
Calm arrival, focused assessment, short treatment blocks — then a plan you can continue at home
First-time owners often expect a dog-style 45–60 minute workout. For cats, quality usually beats duration. A typical pathway looks like this:
1. Carrier arrival & settling
We allow your cat time to leave the carrier on their own terms where safe. Rushing this step often costs the whole session.
2. History and observation
We review medical notes, imaging, and medications, then watch posture, willingness to jump or step, and spontaneous movement before hands-on work.
3. Gentle physical assessment
Palpation, joint range, and muscle condition are assessed with minimal restraint. If stress rises, we pause, adapt, or end early — forcing the exam is counterproductive.
4. Treatment within tolerance
Selected modalities — manual therapy, laser, brief therapeutic exercise — are delivered in short blocks. Many cats accept laser and light touch better than prolonged stretching.
5. Home programme briefing
You leave with clear, realistic exercises and environment tips. For cats, home compliance often drives more progress than clinic minutes alone.
Bring recent vet notes and imaging if available, a familiar towel or bedding that smells like home, and a favourite treat or toy. Fasting is usually unnecessary unless your vet has advised otherwise for a concurrent procedure.
Play-based movement — not forced gym routines
Cats rarely perform “reps” on command the way dogs might. Effective home physiotherapy leans on hunting instinct, short bursts of activity, and environmental design:
We prescribe only what your individual cat will accept. A perfect exercise done once under duress is less useful than a simpler drill your cat will repeat daily. For broader post-injury recovery planning, see our cat rehabilitation overview.
Drug options differ sharply from dogs — physiotherapy works alongside feline-safe analgesia
Many NSAIDs used in dogs are unsafe or unsuitable for cats. Feline pain control requires veterinary selection of cat-licensed or carefully chosen options, plus close monitoring. Physiotherapy does not replace medication when medication is needed — and medication does not replace movement, muscle support, or home environment changes.
Solensia (frunevetmab) is a monoclonal antibody therapy used for feline osteoarthritis pain. Where your primary vet has prescribed Solensia (or another feline-appropriate analgesic), physiotherapy often works synergistically: reduced pain can increase willingness to move, while physiotherapy helps convert that comfort into better muscle support and safer daily function. We coordinate with your referring vet; we do not adjust prescription medicines without veterinary oversight.
If pain remains poorly controlled, we say so plainly and refer back for medical review rather than pushing harder physical work.
Land-based physiotherapy is usually the better first line for feline patients
Underwater treadmills and pool work are powerful tools for many dogs. Most cats find immersion stressful, and forced water therapy can damage trust without delivering useful exercise. At RehabVet, we are frank about this: hydrotherapy is often not suitable for cats. Suitability is assessed case by case, but land-based physiotherapy, laser, acupuncture, and home environmental rehab are the preferred pathway for the majority of feline patients.
If your cat is an unusual exception who genuinely tolerates water, we will discuss it openly. We will not sell a hydro package as the default feline solution.
Transparent session fees — confirmed at booking; catalogue prices may change
Physiotherapy fees depend on assessment findings, modalities used, and how your cat’s programme is structured. Figures below reflect our current clinic catalogue and may change; we confirm the applicable fee when you book.
Initial assessment / first physiotherapy session
Aligned with our physiotherapy catalogue; exact fee confirmed at booking
$150 – $200
Follow-up physiotherapy sessions
Varies with modalities and session complexity; fees may change
$100 – $160
New-patient veterinary rehabilitation consultation
Typical starting point for new patients — see consultation page for inclusions
$249 off-peak / $299 peak
New patients typically start with a veterinary rehabilitation consultation ($249 off-peak / $299 peak) so our veterinary team can examine your cat, clarify diagnoses, and recommend the right pathway before ongoing physiotherapy sessions begin.
Additional modalities (for example laser) may adjust session cost. Your therapist will discuss options before treatment. Some pet insurance policies in Singapore cover rehabilitation — check your policy wording before the first visit.
Confirm fees when you book
We’ll quote the correct consultation or physiotherapy pathway for your cat before you arrive.
Physiotherapy is one part of a broader feline rehabilitation toolkit
Cat rehabilitation
End-to-end feline recovery programmes — assessment, modalities, and home support beyond a single physio visit.
Cat acupuncture
Needle-based comfort support that many cats tolerate well for arthritis and chronic pain, often alongside physiotherapy.
Osteoarthritis in cats
Condition guide covering subtle signs, multimodal management, and why feline joint pain is so often missed.
Book an appointment
Mention that you are bringing a cat when you book so we can prepare a quieter, lower-stress visit.
Help your cat move more comfortably
Clinical appetite for feline cases is high — we want more cats referred early, before mobility and litter-tray habits collapse. Book a cat assessment and we’ll tell you honestly what physiotherapy can (and cannot) change.
Straight answers for owners considering feline physiotherapy in Singapore
Look for behavioural change rather than waiting for a dramatic limp: reduced jumping, litter-box hesitation or accidents, hiding, over-grooming, a scruffy coat, or irritability when handled over joints. Any lasting combination of these signs is a reason to speak with your vet and consider a feline mobility assessment at RehabVet.
Many cats do, when sessions are short, rooms are quieter, and restraint is minimal. Some need introductory visits to build trust. A minority remain too stressed for meaningful hands-on work in clinic — in those cases we emphasise home programmes, environmental changes, and coordination with your vet. We will not force treatment that only increases fear.
Usually not. Most cats find water immersion stressful, and land-based physiotherapy is the preferred first line. We assess individually and are honest when hydrotherapy is unlikely to help. Dogs have a separate pathway — see our dog physiotherapy page.
No. Physiotherapy complements feline-safe analgesia; it does not replace it when medication is indicated. Cats cannot safely take many canine NSAIDs. Where your vet has prescribed options such as Solensia for osteoarthritis pain, physiotherapy often works alongside that comfort to support muscle and daily function. Medication changes always remain under veterinary direction.
Initial assessment / first physiotherapy sessions are typically $150–$200, with follow-ups around $100–$160, subject to change and confirmed at booking. New patients often begin with a veterinary rehabilitation consultation at $249 off-peak / $299 peak before ongoing therapy sessions.
Frequency depends on the condition, stress tolerance, and goals. Some cats start with weekly or fortnightly visits plus daily home play-based exercises; others need a short intensive phase after surgery. We reassess regularly and adjust rather than locking you into an inflexible package that ignores how your cat is coping.
Yes — and for cats, home work is often essential. We teach play-based drills, assisted movement where appropriate, and environment changes (ramps, low-entry litter trays, non-slip surfaces). We only prescribe exercises your cat will accept; forced “gym” routines tend to fail.
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.
