Recognizing Signs of Pain in Dogs and Cats

September is Animal Pain Awareness Month, an important reminder that our pets experience pain just as people do, but they cannot tell us where it hurts or how they are feeling.

For pet owners, recognizing pain can sometimes be difficult. Dogs and cats often instinctively hide discomfort, and the first signs may be subtle changes in behavior, movement or daily habits.

Knowing what to watch for can help you recognize when something may be wrong and start a conversation with your veterinarian.

Signs of Pain in Dogs and Cats

Pain does not always mean crying, limping or showing an obvious injury. In many pets, especially senior dogs and cats, discomfort develops gradually.

You may notice that your pet simply seems different.

Signs of pain in dogs and cats can include:

• Limping, stiffness or favoring one leg

• Difficulty getting up after resting

• Hesitating before using stairs

• Reluctance to jump onto furniture or into a vehicle

• Less interest in walks, toys or normal activities

• Sleeping more than usual

• Changes in appetite

• Hiding or avoiding family members

• Restlessness or difficulty getting comfortable

• Increased panting

• Sensitivity when touched

• Changes in grooming habits

• Irritability or other unusual behavior

Changes that seem like normal aging can sometimes be associated with discomfort, which is why it is important to pay attention to changes in your pet's normal routine.

What Can Cause Pain in Dogs and Cats?

There are many possible causes of pain in pets.

Arthritis and other joint conditions are common, particularly as animals age. Injuries, dental disease, ear infections, skin conditions, gastrointestinal problems and other illnesses can also cause discomfort.

Sometimes the cause is obvious. Other times, a physical examination or additional diagnostic testing is needed to determine what is happening.

Pay Attention to Changes in Your Pet's Normal

You know your pet better than anyone.

A dog who suddenly stops waiting at the door for a walk, a cat who no longer jumps onto a favorite windowsill or a senior pet who has trouble settling down at night may be showing you that something has changed.

One isolated behavior does not necessarily mean your pet is in pain. A pattern of changes, however, is worth discussing with your veterinarian.

Keeping notes can be helpful. Consider writing down when you first noticed the change, how often it occurs and if certain activities seem to make it better or worse. Videos of changes in walking or movement can also provide useful information.

Veterinary Care in the Comfort of Home

For pets experiencing pain or mobility problems, traveling to a veterinary clinic can sometimes add another challenge.

Oliver Mobile Veterinary Service provides veterinary care in the familiar environment of your home throughout Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan.

A home examination allows Dr. Oliver to evaluate your pet where they normally live and move. It can also be particularly helpful for senior animals, pets with mobility limitations and animals who become anxious during transportation.

If you have noticed a change in your pet's movement, behavior or daily routine, do not assume it is simply part of getting older.

An examination can help determine what may be causing the change and what options may be available to help your pet remain comfortable.

To request an appointment with Oliver Mobile Veterinary Service, contact our team or use the appointment request option on our website.