Pets are experts at hiding their pain, a survival instinct inherited from their ancestors to avoid appearing vulnerable to predators. For this reason, it’s essential that owners learn to recognize the often subtle signs indicating their animal companion isn’t feeling well.
Identifying pain early is key to alleviating their suffering and preventing a condition from worsening.
Pay attention to any changes in your pet’s normal routine and behavior. You know them best. Below are the most common signs of pain in dogs and cats.
Behavioral and Attitude Changes
A change in your pet’s personality is one of the most important warning signs.
- Withdrawal and lack of interest: If your usually sociable pet suddenly prefers to be alone, hides under furniture or in corners, or no longer greets you at the door with the same enthusiasm, they may be in pain.
- Sudden aggression or irritability: A typically gentle animal that suddenly growls, bites, or resists being touched—especially in a specific area of the body—is likely doing so because they’re in pain. They react this way to protect themselves.
- Lethargy and apathy: A drastic drop in energy levels is a common symptom. If your pet sleeps more than usual, doesn’t want to play, or shows no interest in their favorite activities (like walking or chasing a toy), it’s a red flag.
- Changes in grooming habits: Cats, which are meticulous about cleanliness, may stop grooming themselves if they’re in pain. On the other hand, both dogs and cats may lick or bite a specific area of their body excessively and compulsively; it’s their way of trying to “heal” or relieve discomfort in that spot.
- Anxiety or restlessness: The animal may seem unable to find a comfortable position. They might repeatedly get up and lie down, pace aimlessly, or appear agitated for no apparent reason.
Physical and Postural Signs
Your pet’s body can also provide clear clues.
- Limping or difficulty moving: This is one of the most obvious signs. Your dog or cat may limp, avoid putting weight on a paw, struggle to climb stairs, jump onto the couch, or get into the car.
- Unusual or hunched posture: A dog or cat with abdominal pain often adopts a “praying” position (with their chest on the ground and their rear end raised) or keeps their back arched.
- Changes in breathing: Faster or shallower breathing (excessive panting without exercise or heat) can indicate pain or stress.
- Changes in the eyes: Their eyes may appear sad or dull. In some cases, their pupils may be more dilated than usual. Excessive blinking or keeping one eye closed is also a sign of pain.
- Loss or increase in appetite: Pain can cause a pet to lose interest in food and water. In other cases, some animals may eat more as a way to seek comfort.
- Trembling: Tremors or shivering unrelated to cold can be a sign of pain.
Vocalizations
While many pets suffer in silence, some express their pain through sounds.
- Whining, whimpering, or crying: These sounds may occur spontaneously or when the animal moves or is touched in a painful area.
- Growling or hissing: Especially common when approaching the area that hurts.
- Excessive barking or meowing: An unusual increase in vocalization without an apparent cause may be a cry for help.
When Should You Take Your Pet to the Veterinarian?
It’s crucial not to medicate your pet on your own. Many human pain relievers (such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen) are extremely toxic to animals.
Seek veterinary help immediately if you notice any of the following:
- Signs of acute and intense pain: Loud crying, obvious limping, inability to move.
- Drastic behavioral changes: Sudden aggression, severe withdrawal.
- Concerning combined symptoms: For example, loss of appetite along with lethargy or vomiting.
- If limping or any other sign of pain persists for more than 24 hours.
- Difficulty breathing.
- If you suspect they’ve suffered trauma (a blow, a fall), even if you don’t see external injuries.
When in doubt, the golden rule is always to consult a professional. A visit to the veterinarian can determine the cause of the pain and provide the appropriate treatment so your loyal friend can regain their quality of life.
If you have questions about your pet’s well-being, please email:
Dr. Enrique Borrego is the medical director of Animal General Hospital, located at 501 SW Port Saint Lucie Boulevard, Port St. Lucie, FL 34953 • Phone 772-344-8835 www.petsvet.com Serving our Treasure Coast community since 1990
