Published Feb 10, 2025
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
When our cats experience pain or discomfort, finding an effective solution is a top priority. The Assisi LOOP offers a drug-free option that delivers targeted pulsed electromagnetic fields (tPEMF) to relieve pain and speed up healing.
Designed specifically for pets, the Assisi LOOP aims to reduce inflammation and enhance your pet’s quality of life. It’s convenient, non-invasive, and easy to use. But does it truly deliver on its promise to promote healing? Is the Assisi LOOP worth the investment?
To find out, we explored the technology behind PEMF treatment and tested the Assisi LOOP for several weeks. This review will cover how the Assisi LOOP works, its potential benefits, and who’s most likely to benefit from it. Let’s dive in!
Why Trust Cats.com
Our team is well-acquainted with pet tech, and I’ve personally tested my share of gadgets—from water fountains to health-monitoring devices. We understand that pet parents seek genuine insights into the value and practicality of these often pricey items. Our mission is to deliver honest assessments that empower you to make informed decisions for your unique cat.
I was particularly excited to test the Assisi LOOP with my senior cat, Amber, who struggles with arthritis. Before I got started, I read up on PEMF therapy and its potential benefits for pets. During the testing period, I closely observed Amber’s comfort and any changes in her behavior or vocalizations. I also gathered feedback from other pet owners to establish a well-rounded perspective.
Assisi LOOP and Zomedica Brand Overview
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Assisi Animal Health was founded in 2008 and operates under the Zomedica umbrella, which also includes ZOM-Dx and PulseVet. Focused on innovative veterinary solutions, Assisi has carved out a niche in the animal health sector with its flagship product, the Assisi Loop, launched in the same year.
The Assisi LOOP is a compact device that emits targeted pulsed electromagnetic fields (tPEMF) to accelerate healing in animals. It was invented by Dr. Arthur A. Pilla, a professor of Biomedical Engineering who co-invented the first FDA-cleared Bone Growth Stimulator.
Beyond the LOOP, Assisi offers additional tPEMF devices such as the LOOP Lounge (for total body treatment), DentaLOOP (for oral and dental pain), and the Calmer Canine (for anxiety management in dogs). Each device is backed by solid clinical research that demonstrates benefits like faster wound healing, reduced opioid dependence, and no adverse side effects.
Assisi LOOP Features
We tested the small LOOP(10 cm)—for more coverage, try the 20 cm model. Liz Coleman / Cats.com
The Assisi LOOP is designed for companion animals, including cats, dogs, and horses. This versatile tool can tackle a variety of health concerns, including:
- Degenerative disorders (arthritis, dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy)
- Orthopedic injuries (sprains, broken bones, fractures)
- Neurological disorders (IVDD, Wobbler disease, neuropathy)
- Wound care (infected wounds, chronic non-healing wounds, lick granulomas)
- Post-surgical pain and swelling (ACL repair, tooth extractions, post-amputation and tumor removal)
How does it work? The LOOP emits a micro-current that is specifically tuned to stimulate your pet’s natural anti-inflammatory response. This gentle electromagnetic signal promotes cellular regeneration by increasing nitric oxide (NO) production, which enhances circulation, digestion, respiration, and immune function.
Available in two sizes—10 cm and 20 cm—the Assisi LOOP provides targeted therapy for both small areas (like paws and eyes) and larger body parts (like hips and limbs). To use, simply place or hold the LOOP over the affected area, press the button on the battery pack, and relax for 15 minutes. The LOOP will turn off automatically after each session.
The Assisi LOOP provides approximately 150 15-minute treatments. Although the battery can’t be recharged or replaced, this gives you anywhere from three weeks to six months of treatment, depending on the frequency of use. To prolong its lifespan, it’s recommended to allow a two-hour rest period between treatments.
Due to their medical nature, all Assisi products are final sale. While the LOOP has a higher price tag, some insurance plans may cover the cost.
What We Like
- It’s completely non-invasive—there’s no noise, heat, or vibration, making it comfortable for your pet.
- User-friendly and easy to incorporate into daily routines
- No prescription needed
- Effective for a broad range of conditions
- Can be used over dressings, wraps, or casts
What We Dislike
- Non-rechargeable battery
- Chronic issues will require regular replacements, leading to ongoing costs.
What Did Our Test Cats Think?
Amber proves it’s easy to use the Assisi LOOP during naptime. Liz Coleman / Cats.com
I was eager to try the Assisi LOOP with my senior cat, Amber. At 18 years old, she struggles with arthritis, particularly in her shoulders. While PEMF therapy has its skeptics, research is promising, and I was hopeful the device could provide Amber some relief.
Using the LOOP is straightforward: just place it over the treatment area, press the button, and let it work for 15 minutes. It automatically shuts off afterward.
To my surprise, Amber’s initial reaction was calm and cooperative. Usually a nervous cat, she nestled into her blanket as I positioned the device near her legs, purring softly despite my jostling.
We followed the recommended protocol of two daily treatments, allowing for a two-hour break in between. Most pet parents will appreciate the LOOP’s convenience—it can be administered at home whenever your busy schedule allows.
For me, a delightful (and unexpected) bonus has been the bonding time it’s allowed us. To ensure the device stayed in place, I sat with Amber during her sessions, petting and comforting her. Those 15 peaceful minutes gave us a special time to unwind and connect.
As with any new pet technology, it’s wise to temper expectations. The LOOP isn’t a miracle cure for pain. But paired with other treatments (and under veterinary guidance), it could provide significant benefits.
Although it’s too early to assess tangible improvements, I’m optimistic. We will continue our sessions, keeping a close eye on Amber’s comfort and mobility.
Even with the LOOP around her leg, Amber is perfectly content. Liz Coleman / Cats.com
What Do Customers Think of the Assisi LOOP?
Reviews of the Assisi LOOP are somewhat limited, with 229 reviews on Amazon and 85 reviews on Chewy. However, the feedback we do have paints a largely positive picture, with a 4.2/5 rating on Amazon and a 4.3/5 rating on Chewy.
Positive Reviews
Many pet parents credit the Assisi LOOP with alleviating their pet’s pain and inflammation. Users report improvements in mobility and conditions like IVDD, arthritis, and pancreatitis. Some noted that their pets were able to reduce reliance on oral medication. Customers also appreciate the LOOP’s convenience and ease of use; many are repeat buyers.
“It seems to help our mini poodle who has chronic back pain. He can take less oral meds (like muscle relaxers) and using this with NSAIDs works the majority of the time. Just repurchased. – Emily on Chewy (Jan 13, 2024)
“I don’t want to use NSAID meds on my pets because they are hard on the liver. My vet recommended the Assisi device and it has been working well so far. My pet’s joints aren’t as stiff and she is walking around more with a youthful gait.” – Jill on Chewy (Apr 30, 2024)
Negative Reviews
Some customers express frustration over the product’s limited lifespan and non-rechargeable battery. There are mixed opinions on its effectiveness, with some users complaining it didn’t yield the expected results for their pets. Additionally, the high cost of the device has raised concerns, especially for long-term conditions that require repeat purchases.
“Disappointing that there isn’t a way to change out the battery when it stops working. Paid considerably more for the Assisi pad for the next treatment option as it had a longer life.” – Anonymous on Amazon (December 18, 2024)
“I had high hopes reading so many good reviews and my vet also said several of her clients had success with it and she thought it would help Toby, unfortunately, there has been no improvement after using 5 weeks. I am glad that it does help some animals i just wish mine was one of them.” – Lisa on Chewy (July 24, 2024)
