Magnet therapy in animals: does it work? (NL context)

What is magnet therapy?

Magnet therapy involves applying magnetic fields to the body with the aim of reducing pain, promoting recovery or suppressing inflammation. In animals, two variants are distinguished:

• Static magnets — permanent magnetic material incorporated into collars, mattresses, blankets or bandages. The magnetic field is constant and weak.
• Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF) — a device that emits alternating electromagnetic pulses. This is a different modality with its own line of research.

What is it used for?

Sellers and some therapists use magnet products for:

• joint pain and osteoarthritis (dog, horse)
• muscle recovery after exertion (horse)
• chronic pain and stiffness
• wound healing

These claims originate from manufacturers and are generally not supported by independent research.

What does the evidence say?

Short answer: the evidence is lacking.

A systematic review from 2023 examined 41 studies on electrotherapy modalities in horses, dogs and cats [1]. The conclusion was clear: the current scientific evidence is insufficient to support clinical effects for any indication [1]. For static magnets, the statement is even more direct — the review explicitly states that their use is not supported by the available scientific documentation [1].

There are no double-blind, placebo-controlled studies available demonstrating that static magnets in animals:

• reduce pain
• accelerate recovery
• improve joint function

PEMF has slightly more research behind it, but for this too, the same review considers the evidence insufficient for clinical recommendations [1].

Why is the evidence so weak?

Available studies typically have small groups, no control group, no blinding and varying measurement methods. Without blinding, it is not possible to distinguish between a real effect and the placebo effect in the owner (who colours the assessment of the animal).

Commercial products

Magnet products for animals are widely sold with marketing language such as 'improves blood circulation', 'reduces inflammation' or 'supports joints'. These claims are not validated by independent research [1]. This makes them misleading, regardless of whether the product is expensive or cheap.

Safety

Static magnet products are generally considered physically safe when used as prescribed. Risks are indirect:

• Delay in diagnosis: an owner who waits for the effect of a magnet blanket while the animal is in pain or a tumour is growing loses valuable treatment time.
• False reassurance: improvement that occurs while the animal is receiving magnet therapy is not necessarily caused by the therapy — diseases fluctuate naturally.
• Costs: commercial products are sometimes expensive; that money could be better spent on proven care.

Summary

In cases of persistent pain, stiffness or reduced performance in your dog or horse, a veterinary diagnosis is the appropriate first step — not a magnet product.