Location and use of LI 4 for horse, dogs, and cats

Large Intestine 4: Animal Acupressure Point for the Face, Mouth & Neck

Large Intestine 4 (LI 4) is an amazing acupressure point and a valuable point for animal acupressure practitioners to understand. LI 4 is traditionally known as a dynamic chi mover and is especially associated with the face, mouth, nose, jaw, and neck.

Because animals cannot tell us when they first experience subtle discomfort, animal guardians and practitioners need to observe changes in behavior, movement, and expression. The goal is to recognize early signs of imbalance and provide appropriate support in collaboration with the animal’s veterinary team.

Observe Early Signs of Imbalance

During an assessment, observe the animal’s overall presentation and look for subtle changes such as:

  • Changes in facial expression or willingness to be touched around the head and neck

  • Uneven muscle tone in the neck, shoulders, or forelimbs

  • Altered head or neck carriage

  • Resistance to turning the head or bending the neck

  • Changes in appetite, chewing, or willingness to take treats

  • Sensitivity, warmth, or tension during gentle palpation

  • Changes in mood, including restlessness, irritability, or withdrawal

When speaking with the animal’s guardian, ask about changes in daily activities. For example:

  • Has a dog become reluctant to pick up toys or chew?

  • Does a cat avoid being touched around the face or neck?

  • Has a horse become resistant to bending, bridling, or accepting contact around the head?

  • Is the animal less willing to perform familiar work, play, or movement?

Changes in comfort, behavior, eating, breathing, or movement may have many possible causes. Persistent, sudden, or severe concerns should always be evaluated by a qualified veterinarian.

LI 4 Animal Acupressure Classification

Large Intestine 4 is the Yuan-Source point of the Large Intestine meridian. Yuan-Source points are traditionally understood to support the flow of Original Chi to their associated organ system.

LI 4 is also the Master Point for the face, mouth, nose, jaw, and neck. This makes LI 4 an important point to consider during an acupressure assessment when an animal presents with imbalance along these areas of the body.

As with all acupoints, LI 4 is best selected as part of a complete acupressure session based on the individual animal’s presentation, energetic pattern, and health history.

Energetic Actions of Large Intestine 4

In animal acupressure, LI 4 is traditionally used to:

  • Move chi and support the free flow of vital substances

  • Release Exterior patterns

  • Dispel Wind Cold and Wind Heat

  • Clear Heat and Fire

  • Strengthen Wei chi

  • Relieve pain patterns

  • Support the face, mouth, nose, jaw, and neck

  • Benefit the forelimbs

  • Relax the soft tissues of the body

The energetic action of LI 4 is described as upward and outward. This traditional understanding helps explain why LI 4 is commonly considered when assessing patterns involving the head, face, neck, and upper portion of the body.

Indicators for Using LI 4 in Animal Acupressure

LI 4 may be included in an acupressure session when an animal presents with patterns such as:

  • Head or facial discomfort

  • Nasal or sinus congestion

  • Facial swelling

  • Eye concerns

  • Mouth, teeth, or jaw discomfort

  • Neck stiffness or pain

  • Forelimb discomfort

  • Emotional stress or tension

  • Non-sweating issues, also known as anhidrosis

  • Pain patterns anywhere in the body

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, LI 4 is also recognized for its ability to move chi. For this reason, it is often thoughtfully paired with other points in a complete session to support the animal’s overall energetic balance.

Important Consideration for Pregnant Animals

LI 4 is a powerful chi-moving point and is traditionally contraindicated during pregnancy, except under the direction of a qualified veterinarian. It is associated in Traditional Chinese Medicine with promoting labor and expelling retained placenta.

Acupressure practitioners should not use LI 4 for pregnant animals unless its use has been specifically approved within the animal’s veterinary care plan.

LI 4 Location for Animals

Equine LI 4 location:
Locate LI 4 distal and medial to the head of the medial splint bone.

Animal - Amazing Animal Acupressure Points #2 - LI 4

Canine and feline LI 4 location:
Locate LI 4 between the first digit, or dewclaw, and the second metacarpal bone on the medial side of the second metacarpal.

When locating any acupoint, use a gentle touch and observe the animal’s response. Acupressure should always be respectful, responsive, and comfortable for the animal.

Person - Amazing Animal Acupressure Points #2 - LI 4

Learn More About Animal Acupressure

LI 4 is one of many important points used in animal acupressure. Learning how to assess an animal, recognize energetic patterns, locate points accurately, and create balanced sessions takes study and practice.

Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Resources has spent decades developing educational materials, hands-on training, and nine books devoted to the responsible practice of animal acupressure. Our resources help animal guardians and practitioners build the skills needed to support animals thoughtfully while respecting the essential role of veterinary care.

 

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