This scientific guide clarifies the core differences between Class 3B and Class IV lasers for veterinary laser therapy, covering their power output definitions, photobiomodulation-based mechanisms of action and distinct clinical applications.
As clinical cases become increasingly complex, the veterinary industry is placing higher demands on laser systems—favoring solutions that are portable, multi-wavelength, and capable of supporting multiple clinical scenarios.
Why are more veterinarians choosing veterinary laser therapy? This non-invasive, drug-free treatment stimulates cellular repair, reduces inflammation & relieves pain for pets with soft tissue injuries, osteoarthritis & post-op recovery. A safe complementary option to traditional veterinary care.
In modern veterinary medicine, Pet Laser Therapy has evolved from a purely “supportive rehabilitation option” into an integral component of multimodal treatment strategies. Whether addressing acute injuries, post-surgical recovery, or long-term management of chronic conditions, laser therapy serves different clinical purposes at different stages of healing.
Today, veterinary laser therapy is increasingly recognized by veterinary professionals as a supportive, non-pharmacological approach that may help reduce the intensity and frequency of medication use, rather than directly replacing drug therapy.
In recent years, Class 4 Laser Therapy has gained increasing attention in veterinary rehabilitation as a high-power, non-invasive physical therapy modality, offering a new approach for the long-term management of animal osteoarthritis.
This article highlights treatment area assessment as the critical first step for effective veterinary laser therapy outcomes. It analyzes key factors: skin/coat pigmentation, coat length/density and target tissue depth/type, provides evidence-based clinical strategies to optimize light energy penetration, and explains how proper parameter adjustment maximizes photobiomodulation effects for pet pain relief, anti-inflammation and tissue repair.
As laser therapy continues to gain wider adoption in veterinary clinical practice, its value in pain management, inflammation control, and rehabilitation support is increasingly recognized. However, the effectiveness of laser therapy does not depend on “how high the power is,” but rather on whether it is applied correctly, safely, and with full consideration of individual animal differences.
Discover how Class IV laser therapy accelerated healing in MIMI, a cat with a hind limb wound. Learn about non-invasive photobiomodulation for feline wound care and inflammation reduction in veterinary practice.
