Red light therapy is no longer exclusive to human wellness. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular in pet care, with more pet owners and veterinary professionals using red and near-infrared light therapy to support animal health, comfort, and recovery.
From senior dogs with joint stiffness to cats recovering from surgery, red light therapy is now widely recognized as a gentle, non-invasive option that can be used at home to improve pets’ quality of life.
Several key factors are driving the rapid growth of red light therapy in the pet wellness space:
Higher standards of pet care
Pets are increasingly treated as family members, leading owners to invest more in long-term wellness rather than short-term symptom relief.
Non-invasive and stress-free
Red light therapy is painless, silent, and drug-free, making it ideal for pets that are anxious, elderly, or sensitive to clinical treatments.
Growing veterinary recognition
Many veterinarians, animal physiotherapists, and rehabilitation specialists now recommend photobiomodulation as a complementary therapy.
Convenient at-home use
Professional-grade devices allow pet owners to provide consistent care without frequent vet visits.
Influence from rehabilitation and sports medicine
Canine sports, agility training, and post-surgical rehabilitation have accelerated adoption of red light therapy for animals.
Red light therapy for pets is based on a biological process known as photobiomodulation.
When red light (around 660nm) and near-infrared light (around 850nm) penetrate the skin, the light energy is absorbed by mitochondria within cells. This stimulates increased production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which supports cellular repair and energy metabolism.
As a result, red light therapy may help improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and accelerate tissue recovery. Near-infrared wavelengths are particularly effective for pets due to their deeper tissue penetration, even through fur.
Red light therapy can help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow, making it especially beneficial for pets with arthritis, joint pain, hip dysplasia, or chronic stiffness—conditions commonly seen in aging dogs and cats.
Regular use may support joint flexibility and ease movement, helping pets walk, climb stairs, and remain active with greater comfort.
By promoting circulation and cellular repair, red light therapy can assist recovery from soft tissue injuries, sprains, surgical incisions, and post-operative inflammation.
Photobiomodulation may support wound healing and skin regeneration, making it useful for hot spots, minor wounds, scars, and post-surgical care when used under veterinary guidance.
Many pets find red light therapy calming. The gentle warmth and quiet treatment environment can help reduce stress and discomfort, particularly in anxious animals.
While medication is often necessary, red light therapy offers several advantages as a complementary approach:
No reliance on long-term pain medication
Minimal risk of side effects when used correctly
Suitable for ongoing maintenance and preventive care
Easily combined with physical therapy and veterinary treatment plans
These benefits make red light therapy especially appealing for chronic conditions such as arthritis or degenerative joint disease.
Red light therapy is generally safe for pets, but responsible use is essential:
Always consult a veterinarian before starting, especially if your pet has a medical condition or is recovering from surgery
Avoid direct exposure to the eyes
Follow recommended session times, typically 5–15 minutes per area depending on device output
Do not use on open or infected wounds unless advised by a professional
Monitor your pet’s behavior and discontinue use if signs of discomfort appear
Choosing a reliable, professional-grade device with stable wavelengths is strongly recommended.
Many pet owners use devices originally designed for human wellness, including:
Red light therapy panel for targeted treatment of joints or muscles
Red light therapy mat for full-body relaxation and recovery
When selecting a device, key factors include wavelength accuracy, light intensity, treatment coverage, and safety certifications.
Veterinary rehabilitation clinics and animal physiotherapists increasingly use red light therapy because it offers:
A well-studied biological mechanism
Compatibility with other treatment approaches
Positive long-term outcomes in real-world use
Reduced stress compared to invasive procedures
As research and clinical experience continue to grow, red light therapy is becoming an important supportive tool in modern veterinary care.
iLUXRED focuses on advanced photobiomodulation solutions designed for stable output, accurate wavelengths, and long-term reliability. Our systems are suitable for both human and animal wellness applications, making them a trusted choice for clinics, rehabilitation centers, and knowledgeable pet owners.
As demand for Red light therapy panel and Red light therapy mat solutions continues to rise, iLUXRED remains committed to evidence-based design, safety-focused engineering, and OEM/ODM flexibility.