Silent Suffering: Spotting Hidden Pain in Cats and Dogs
September is Animal Pain Awareness Month, a timely reminder to learn how to recognize pain in our pets. Dogs and cats can't tell us when they're in pain, and their natural instinct to hide discomfort makes it even harder to detect. As pet parents, it's up to us to notice the subtle clues they give us so we can get them help quickly.
Understanding Pain in Pets
Pain can arise from surgeries, dental disease, ear and skin infections, trauma, osteoarthritis, and even emotional stress. It generally comes in two forms: acute and chronic. Acute pain is sudden and often easier to spot, while chronic pain develops over time and is frequently mistaken for aging or "slowing down." Therefore, it's crucial to watch for subtle signs that may indicate your pet is in pain.
Behavioral Changes
One of the first indicators of pain is a change in behavior. Has your playful dog become less active, or is your usually social cat hiding more? These shifts could signal that something isn't right. Painful dogs and cats may withdraw, lose interest in play, or show signs of anxiety or aggression.
Routine Disruptions
Pain can also alter your pet's daily habits. A dog that eagerly eats might avoid going downstairs to the food bowl, or a cat might start avoiding the litter box. Sleep patterns can change, too—your pet might sleep more than usual or struggle to get comfortable at night.
Physical Signs
Physical symptoms are another clue. Is your dog limping or struggling to rise after resting? Has your cat stopped jumping onto their favorite perch? Stiffness, difficulty posturing to use the bathroom, or a hunched back can all point to pain. Even facial expressions can change in cats—flattened ears, squinted eyes, or odd whisker positioning might indicate discomfort. The Feline Grimace Scale app can help you spot these signs.
Could It Be Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common cause of chronic pain in pets, affecting even younger animals. This progressive joint disease causes inflammation and pain, making movement difficult. Early detection is key to managing OA, and tools like Zoetis Petcare's OA Checklist for dogs and The Feline Musculoskeletal Pain Index for cats can help you recognize signs of this condition.
What Can You Do?
If you think your pet might be in pain, don't wait—reach out to your vet! A thorough exam and imaging can pinpoint the cause. Early recognition allows you and your vet to create a treatment plan, whether through medication, acupuncture, physical therapy, or dietary changes. Addressing pain early can prevent it from becoming a chronic, debilitating issue.
Your pet is counting on you to notice the signs of pain and get them the help they need!
For more tips and tools to spot pain, check out the following resources:
The Feline Grimace Scale: felinegrimacescale.com
Zoetis Petcare's OA Checklist: zoetispetcare.com/checklist/osteoarthritis-checklist
The Feline Musculoskeletal Pain Index (FMPI): painfreecats.org
International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM): ivapm.org/caregiver-resources