Strokes & Spinal Strokes
Strokes (aka “Cerebrovascular Accident”) and spinal strokes (aka “Spinal Cord Infarction”) are medical emergencies and can be rightfully frightening to witness. While some pets recover well, there is always a chance they may not fully regain normal function. It’s completely natural for owners to feel helpless and unsure of what to do in these moments.
At Holistic Vet Care, we understand how distressing this experience can be and our fully qualified vets are here to support both you and your pet. We offer compassionate guidance and gentle, whole-body care throughout your beloved pet’s ongoing care and recovery process.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Book your free introductory consult
Not sure if we can help? Book a free 15min introductory consult with one of our holistic vets!
It’s a chance to get to know us, ask questions, and decide if you want to use our services with zero obligation.
Introductory consults can be in person or via Teams. Terms and Conditions apply.
What are strokes and spinal strokes?
A stroke occurs when there is a sudden disruption in blood supply to the brain, while a spinal cord infarction (SCI)—often referred to as a “spinal stroke”—happens when blood flow to the spinal cord is suddenly interrupted.
Strokes can be ischaemic (caused by a blockage such as a blood clot), or haemorrhagic (caused by bleeding within the brain). Spinal cord infarctions may be triggered by minor trauma, exercise, a blood clot, or when material from an intervertebral disc blocks a blood vessel supplying the spine, a process known as a fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCE).
In both conditions, nerve cells are suddenly deprived of oxygen and vital nutrients, which can lead to cell death and lasting neurological problems in some cases.
Holistic treatment
Please be advised that conventional treatment is provided by your regular veterinarian, as we do not offer surgical or conventional medical interventions at Holistic Vet Care.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be a valuable part of supportive care for pets recovering from strokes and spinal strokes, alongside their conventional treatment plans.
Research in human medicine suggests that acupuncture may influence nerve growth factors involved in nerve healing and neurological function. However, further research is needed in veterinary patients, and it is therefore used as a supportive rather than curative therapy.
With acupuncture and carefully selected Chinese herbal medicine, we aim to support pets recovering from strokes and spinal strokes in the following ways:
- Help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress
- Help protect nerve cells and encourage nerve repair
- Help improve blood circulation and encourage the growth of new blood vessels
- Help support neurological recovery by stimulating new communication pathways between nerves (neuroplasticity).
Through these approaches, our qualified vets aim to support your pet throughout their treatment journey by helping to improve their comfort, overall health, and quality of life.
Food therapy
Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, food therapy is foundational in addressing underlying “patterns of disharmony” (the way disease presents within the individual). We aim to support the body’s natural balance with tailored whole-food diets, rather than heavily processed pet foods which can contribute to inflammation.
Every pet is unique and more specific dietary recommendations are tailored to your pet’s individual TCM diagnosis. These should always be discussed with one of our qualified vets during your consultation.
Claiming insurance
Many pet insurance providers now offer cover for complementary and holistic therapies, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, and laser therapy. However, we recommend checking what is included in your plan as cover varies between policies. Please bear in mind that all consultations, treatments, and herbal prescriptions must be paid for at the time. We will then help you claim back from your insurer.
Frequently asked questions
What are common clinical signs of strokes?
Both strokes and spinal cord infarctions can cause sudden neurological changes and should always be treated as a medical emergency.
Strokes can sometimes look very similar to vestibular disease and may also cause seizures. The exact signs depend on which part of the brain is affected, but may include
- Sudden loss of balance & incoordination
- Confusion & disorientation
- Head tilt & circling
- Jerky eye movements (nystagmus)
- Sudden blindness
- Sudden weakness or paralysis (usually affecting one side of the body)
- Sudden incontinence
- Abrupt changes in behaviour (e.g. aggression, fear, withdrawal)
- Markedly reduced level of consciousness (stupor)
- Coma
What are common clinical signs of spinal strokes?
Both strokes and spinal cord infarctions can cause sudden neurological changes and should always be treated as a medical emergency.
Spinal strokes cause signs related to the part of the spinal cord involved. These may include:
- Sudden, severe, back pain that usually resolves rapidly
- Sudden weakness or paralysis of one or more limbs
- Loss of balance & incoordination
- Sudden incontinence
How are strokes typically treated by conventional vets?
Both strokes and spinal cord infarctions can cause sudden neurological changes and should always be treated as a medical emergency.
Please be advised that conventional treatment is provided by your regular vet, as we do not offer surgical or medical interventions at Holistic Vet Care.
For strokes, treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause where possible (such as blood-thinning medications if a clot is suspected), alongside supportive care (like mobility aids or oxygen therapy).
Symptoms are managed as needed—for example, anti-convulsant medication if seizures occur—and physiotherapy is often introduced to support recovery and function.
Prognosis and recovery vary widely and depend on which area of the brain is affected and how severe the damage is.
How are spinal strokes typically treated by conventional vets?
Both strokes and spinal cord infarctions can cause sudden neurological changes and should always be treated as a medical emergency.
Please be advised that conventional treatment is provided by your regular vet, as we do not offer surgical or medical interventions at Holistic Vet Care.
For spinal strokes, conventional care usually involves strict rest, careful supportive nursing (such as regularly turning pets who are unable to move), appropriate pain relief, and physiotherapy to help regain strength and coordination.
As with strokes, the outlook depends on the location and severity of the injury, with some pets making meaningful improvements over time.
Must I leave my current vets to seek treatment at Holistic Vet Care?
No – we work alongside your conventional vet. We don’t replace conventional or emergency treatment. Our aim is to support your pet’s whole body and to help you feel informed, supported, and confident in their care.
Many complementary therapies are used alongside conventional treatments to improve patient welfare and can help improve prognosis. While adverse herbal-drug interactions (HDIs) can occur, they are uncommon when therapies are prescribed appropriately and monitored carefully.
When interactions do occur, the most common scenario is the herb enhancing the effect of the drug – which may allow conventional treatment plans to be adjusted by the prescribing vet.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Can I fully replace conventional treatment with holistic treatment?
No, holistic treatment should not replace conventional diagnosis or medical care.
At Holistic Vet Care, we work alongside your regular veterinarian. Conventional treatment is essential for diagnosing the condition, assessing severity, and managing emergencies or complications. Our role is to support your pet’s comfort, overall health, resilience, healing, and long-term wellbeing.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Do I need a referral from my vets?
Yes – your primary vet signs the “Vet Care Agreement” and sends your pet’s history to us. This ensures your pet receives safe, coordinated care before your first appointment.
How Long Does Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Take to Show Results?
The rate and degree of improvement depend on your pet and the severity of disease. Some animals show marked improvement in a matter of weeks, whilst others may need months. With TCM, improvement is steady and sustained, so patience is required.
Are There Any Risks with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
TCM is generally safe when prescribed by a qualified person. Certain herbs may have side-effects and may have the ability to interact with conventional medications. Therefore, it is imperative that TCM is only used under professional guidance.
Will acupuncture hurt my pet?
It is unlikely. We find that most patients tolerate acupuncture very well, many end up falling asleep! Some points can be painful on some patients, but we take steps to minimise discomfort in these cases.
Can holistic treatments help older pets?
Absolutely! We see many geriatric patients, and they often demonstrate notable improvements (it may require several treatments before the benefits can be obviously appreciated). Some clients report that their older animals appear brighter, more comfortable, or more engaged again.
How do I know which holistic treatments are suitable for my pet?
Talk to your vet before trialling any new treatments.
Once registered with us, you can also ask our holistic vet.
Can I claim through my insurance?
Most insurance companies will cover/contribute towards our services. However, we always advise checking with your insurance company regarding your individual policy.
Get in touch
Where are we located?
Suite A, Blisworth Marina, Blisworth, Northampton, NN7 3FG.
We are located just outside of Blisworth, between Northampton and Towcester. Our clinic is at the Blisworth Marina, providing a peaceful, relaxing setting, with ample parking.
