When your pet experiences breathing difficulties, you may have heard that a pet oxygen concentrator can help, but upon researching,
you might get confused by the terms "medical grade" and "non-medical grade" and wonder: "What’s the difference? Which one does my pet need?"
Don't worry! This article is here to clarify your doubts.
We will analyze the differences between these two types of oxygen concentrators to help you make the best choice for your pet.
1. Why the term "medical grade"?
Currently, there are no specific legal regulations for pet oxygen concentrators, meaning there isn’t a unified standard to ensure their design and performance.
However, a "medical grade" pet oxygen concentrator refers to equipment that generally delivers an oxygen concentration of 93% ± 3% or higher. This term signifies that the device must pass rigorous quality checks and meet certain safety standards.
In Taiwan, medical-grade human equipment must comply with regulations from the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) and obtain medical certification. These devices are designed precisely to deliver high-concentration oxygen reliably and control oxygen flow accurately to meet specific health needs.
Although pet oxygen concentrators don’t require MOHW certification, our pet oxygen concentrator meets human medical-grade standards. Whether in design, stability, or safety, it adheres to the same high standards as medical equipment, ensuring reliable and precise oxygen support for pets.
Note: The MJ-P33 pet oxygen concentrator is designed for pets and is not suitable for human use.
2. Comparison of Medical Grade vs. Non-Medical Grade Pet Oxygen Concentrators
The key differences between these two products lie in their design standards, functions, performance, and appropriate usage scenarios.
Let’s look at the differences from five key perspectives:
1. Oxygen Concentration and Flow:
• Medical Grade: Delivers stable high-concentration oxygen (over 90%) with precise, controllable flow.
• Non-Medical Grade: Lower concentration, with simpler flow control.
2. Equipment Quality and Safety:
• Medical Grade: Rigorous testing, with overheat protection and filtration systems, durable and safe.
• Non-Medical Grade: Lower quality, less durable, with higher risk of malfunction.
3. Appropriate Usage Scenarios:
• Medical Grade: Suitable for post-surgery, elderly, or chronic illness pets, offering long-term stable support.
• Non-Medical Grade: Ideal for short-term or mild oxygen needs, not requiring high oxygen concentrations.
4. Noise:
• Medical Grade: Low noise design, ideal for noise-sensitive pets.
• Non-Medical Grade: Higher noise levels, which may cause anxiety in pets.
5. Price:
• Medical Grade: Higher price (NTD $16,500 - $26,000), but reliable and safe.
• Non-Medical Grade: Lower price, but performance and stability are weaker.
3. Which Type is Best for Your Pet?
Choosing between a medical grade or non-medical grade oxygen concentrator depends on your pet’s health condition and needs:
1. Medical Grade is Suitable For:
Pets recovering from surgery.
Older pets.
Pets with chronic conditions (e.g., heart disease, COPD).
Pets needing long-term, stable oxygen support for recovery.
Pets requiring high-concentration oxygen for specific health needs.
Note: Use oxygen only as directed by a veterinarian. Do not adjust flow rates without consultation.
2. Non-Medical Grade is Suitable For:
Pets needing short-term or mild oxygen support.
Pets needing oxygen supplementation in environments with poor air quality or low oxygen.
Pets sensitive to allergens.
Pets requiring light assistance in specific environments.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: If my pet only has mild breathing issues, should I choose a medical grade oxygen concentrator?
A1: If your pet requires prolonged or high-concentration oxygen, especially for more complex health issues, a medical grade concentrator is the better option. Non-medical grade concentrators are more suitable for everyday, mild oxygen needs, and they are more budget-friendly.
Q2: Can a non-medical grade concentrator be used for a critically ill pet?
A2: It is not recommended. Non-medical grade concentrators may not provide the stable concentration and flow necessary for critically ill pets, which could impact treatment effectiveness.
Q3: Does the pet's size affect the choice?
A3: Yes. Larger pets typically require higher flow oxygen support.
Q4: If the medical grade option is too expensive, is non-medical grade completely unsuitable?
A4: Non-medical grade concentrators can still be effective for mild or temporary needs, but if a veterinarian has prescribed high-concentration oxygen, a medical-grade concentrator is necessary.
Q5: How big is the difference in oxygen concentration between medical and non-medical grade concentrators?
A5: Medical grade concentrators generally maintain a stable oxygen concentration of over 90%, suitable for critical care; non-medical grade concentrators deliver around 85%-90%, suitable for mild needs.
For more questions, please refer to "《2024 Latest | Pet Oxygen Concentrator FAQs Fully Unveiled (Part 1)》"
Choosing the right pet oxygen concentrator depends on your pet's health condition, needs, and budget. Always consult your veterinarian to ensure safety and effectiveness.
For example: MJMT’s MJ-P33 pet oxygen concentrator meets medical-grade standards, delivering high-concentration oxygen to ensure your pet breathes comfortably every day.
Note: Pet oxygen concentrators are non-medical products and do not have medical efficacy.
If your pet shows abnormal symptoms, please seek immediate veterinary care to avoid delaying treatment.