Ketamine Therapy: for Pets With Chronic Pain
Turning down the volume on long-term pain—gently, safely, and effectively.
Chronic pain can become deeply ingrained in the nervous system over time—amplifying discomfort and reducing quality of life. At Cygnus, we offer low-dose ketamine therapy as a powerful tool to help reset the body’s pain response, giving your pet the chance to feel comfortable again.
Our Ketamine Therapy Service Includes:
✔ A low-dose ketamine protocol, administered and monitored by a licensed veterinarian.
✔ A thorough evaluation of your pet’s pain history, response to medications, and current therapies.
✔ Ongoing monitoring and support, with follow-up care to track comfort levels and adjust treatment.
✔ Integration with existing pain management plans, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and laser therapy.
Ketamine therapy is best suited for pets who:
- Are experiencing long-standing pain, such as arthritis or degenerative joint disease
- Have plateaued or seen diminishing results with traditional pain medications
- Are looking to reduce doses of pharmaceuticals
- May benefit from enhancing the effectiveness of their current treatments
If your pet’s pain feels like it’s getting louder over time—even with medications—ketamine therapy can help turn the volume back down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ketamine therapy safe for pets?
Yes—it’s incredibly safe. The dose used is very low, just enough to achieve therapeutic effects WITHOUT causing sedation or side effects. Your pet will remain alert, calm, and comfortable throughout treatment.
Will my pet be sedated?
Not at all. The dose is too low to be sedating. Your pet will continue to act like their usual self, though they may seem a little more relaxed simply because they’re finally feeling some relief.
Is this a painkiller or opiate?
No. Ketamine is not an opiate or traditional painkiller. Instead, it works by resetting the nervous system, helping your pet’s body stop amplifying pain signals and respond more appropriately to stimulation.
How long does the effect last?
It depends on your pet, but we typically start with one injection per week for four weeks, followed by one injection every other week for two weeks, and then once a month for maintenance. This schedule helps reinforce the calming effect on the nervous system.
Why does ketamine therapy need to be repeated?
Chronic, "wind-up" pain doesn’t resolve overnight—it takes time and consistency to quiet the nerve pathways. Plus, conditions like arthritis continue to send pain signals which reinforces wind-up pain, so our goal is to keep that pain from being amplified by treating it on a regular schedule.
How long does each session take?
The injection itself is quick and well-tolerated—just a few minutes. We’ll make sure your pet is comfortable and cared for before, during, and after the visit.
Caring for Pets Across Nassau & Suffolk Counties
Offering in-home integrative care and end-of-life support wherever your pet feels most at peace.
