Cotati Small Animal Hospital
IS YOUR PET IN PAIN?
Identifying pain in cats and dogs can be challenging but is essential for their well-being. By paying attention to subtle changes in their behavior and physical signs, you can take proactive steps to get them the care and comfort they deserve.
Even though pets can’t tell us where they’re hurting, they still feel pain from injuries, illnesses, and conditions, whether acute or chronic. Keeping an eye out for changes in their behavior and understanding potential causes is key to spotting problems early and getting them the relief they need. Here’s a look at some common reasons pets might be in pain:
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis can affect both dogs and cats, causing ongoing joint pain and stiffness.
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Injuries
Pets can get into all sorts of accidents that can lead to various types of injuries, which in turn can cause pain.
Allergies
For pets, skin is the primary indication of an allergy so if your pet is itching like crazy it might be time to see the vet.
Dental Issues
Dental problems, including periodontal disease and oral abscesses can result in severe pain in your pet’s mouth.
Infections
Infections in pets, such as ear or urinary tract infections, can be common and be very painful depending on the severity.
Chronic Conditions
Disorders like cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, and arthritis can cause constant pain if it's not properly managed.
Ingrown Nails
Ingrown nails can cause paw discomfort and inflammation, and if it grows into the paw it can lead to infection.
Ocular Disease
Eye conditions are relatively common and are caused by a number of reasons ranging from injuries to genetics.
SIGNS OF PAIN IN DOGS
Dogs can’t tell us when they’re in pain, but their behavior often speaks volumes. They are masters at hiding pain, a skill inherited from their wild ancestors who needed to stay tough to avoid predators because showing signs of discomfort could make them appear weak to predators. This natural instinct makes it challenging for pet owners to gauge their dog's well-being. However, by paying close attention to subtle indicators and behavioral changes, you can ensure your dog receives the care they need.
Anti-Social Behavior
Antisocial behavior or persistent hiding could be an indication of pain as they try to avoid interactions that might increase their pain. Others might do the opposite and seek attention where normally they wouldn't.
Mobility issues
Dogs that are experiencing mobility issues when attempting to move, may also experience pain. If they seem stiff or move in ways that are uncharacteristic for them or are slow to rise they might have an underlying issue.
Appetite Fluctuations
If your dog is showing signs of a reduced appetite or disinterest in food, it may be a more subtle sign they may have pain in their mouth or around their face. It is worth noting that pain in other areas can also cause this.
Excessive Grooming
In an attempt to heal themselves, a dog may try to bite, lick, and clean a wound on instinct to ease the discomfort. However it is not always external cause and can also indicate irritation, inflammation, or itching.
Restlessness
Some dogs tend to sleep more than normal as their body's way of trying to heal. On the other hand the pain can make it hard for them to get comfortable and they may lay in uncomfortable positions and become more restless.
Whimpering or Whining
One of the clearest signs of discomfort or distress in a hurt dog is when they express it vocally, especially if that is not a normal behavior. A dog in pain may express it through whining, whimpering, yelping, growling, or even howling.
Aggressive Behavior
A sudden onset of aggressive behavior can be a sign of pain as it can cause dogs to become irritable and defensive as they try to protect themselves from further discomfort. They may snap, growl, or display other aggressive behavior.
Physical Changes
There are also more subtle physical signs your dog may be in pain which can include but is not limited to: heavy breathing or shallow panting, increased heart rate, bloodshot eyes, swelling, drooling, and trembling.
SIGNS OF PAIN IN CATS
Cats have instincts ingrained in their DNA that help them survive in the wild, such as hiding signs of pain to avoid appearing vulnerable. While this survival tactic is beneficial in the wild, it makes it challenging for owners to detect when something is wrong. Cats are so adept at masking discomfort that they could be in significant pain without showing obvious signs. However, they do communicate their pain through subtle changes in behavior. Observing these changes closely will help you identify when your pet needs attention.
Grooming Habits
Cats are typically great groomers, so a change in their coat condition can be a sign of pain. If your cats fur looks unkempt, they might be struggling get into grooming positions due to discomfort.
Isolation
Most cats still possess survival instincts from their ancestors. One of which is hiding when they are in pain or distress, as not to alert nearby predator's of their sudden weakness or vulnerability.
Changes in Appetite
There are a few reasons for a lack of appetite pain is most definitely one of them. However this can also include any change in diet that seems out of the normal routine so it is best to check with your vet.
Litter Box Behavior
Cats in distress or pain may experience a shift in their litter box habits like straining while urinated. They also might begin to associate the litterbox with pain which is why they might urinate outside of it.
Vocalization
Because of their natural instinct to hide their pain most cats won't usually vocalize discomfort until it's severe. When they do want to vocalize it could be in the form of purring, meowing, hissing, or growling.
Increased Agitation
Cats have a tendency to become more irritable and aggressive when they are in pain. They may scratch, bite, or hiss in response as an attempt to avoid touch, movement, or actions that might worsen the pain.
Changes in Sleep
Knowing your cat's normal sleeping patterns will help tell when there is a change in their pattern. If they are sleeping more or less than usual or has discomfort laying down and getting up, it could be a sign of pain.
Mobility Issues
Reduction in normal activity and movement could be due to an underlying issue and pain moving around. This could be anything from avoiding jumping, not wanting to be picked up, to trembling when moving.
Abnormal Posture
Abdominal pain and issues with the spine are common reasons a cat might exhibit an abnormal posture. But any kind of pain can cause this symptom, which often appears as an arched back and a tucked abdomen.
Excessive Drooling
Some cats just drool, but for others there might be an underlying issue. Excessive drooling can occur for a number of reasons such as: Dental issues, allergic reaction, infection, motion sickness.
Facial Signs
There are a few facial signs to look out for to tell if a cat is in pain, such as: drooping whiskers, lowered ears, squinting eyes. The Grimace Scale identifies pain in cats by analyzing subtle changes in their facial expressions.
Weight Loss
Unexplainable weight loss is one of the more noticeable symptoms. This is especially true in cats that develop dental problem, because the discomfort in their mouth can make it painful for them to eat.
RESOURCES AND NEXT STEPS
If you believe your pet is in pain, there are several steps you can take to help them find relief. Here are some steps you can take to help your pet cope with pain and work towards relief!
Observe and Document Symptoms
Carefully monitor your pet’s behavior and physical signs of discomfort. Pay attention to changes in grooming habits, posture, activity level, or appetite. Keeping a detailed record of these observations will assist your veterinarian in making an accurate diagnosis. Consider these questions as you document:
Relief Options
Once you and your veterinarian have identified the cause of your pet’s pain, it's time to explore relief options tailored to their needs. Always consult your vet before administering any medication, as some over-the-counter drugs can be harmful to pets. Here are common methods to manage pain:
Medications
Your veterinarian may prescribe specific pain-relieving medications, based on your pet's condition and their pain level.
Dietary Adjustments
A specialized prescription diet or nutritional supplements might be recommended to address specific issues.
Lifestyle Modifications
Adjusting your pet’s environment can play a significant role in alleviating their discomfort and minimizing stress.
Each approach will be tailored to your pet’s unique situation, ensuring the most effective relief and improving their quality of life.
Osteoarthrosis Pain Tests
Use this tool to help determine if your dog might be showing signs of arthritis!
Use this tool to help determine if your cat might be showing signs of arthritis!
If you believe your pet may be in pain, contact your vet today!
