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"She's just getting old and slowing down."

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"He's not crying so it doesn't hurt."

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"I know he's limping but it doesn't really seem to bother him."

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"Well, animals don't really feel pain like we do, right?"

These are just a few of the statements I hear from pet owners. It is a common misunderstanding to believe that if an animal is not vocalizing, it is not in any pain. Our pets can be masters of hiding illness and discomfort.

 

Read on below to see common signs of pain in dogs and cats. 

DOGS

  • Lameness

  • Difficulty with going up/down stairs, getting on/off furniture, or with just lying down

  • Stiff when getting up, or getting up with front legs first

  • Not wanting to run or jump as much as before

  • Licking at one area of the body

  • Changes in posture

  • Increased panting

  • Not wanting to be pet or brushed

  • Decreased playing or interacting with the family

  • New aggression toward family members or other pets when there was no aggression before

  • Difficulty sleeping or restlessness

  • Decreased appetite

  • House-training accidents

CATS

  • Lameness

  • Hunched posture

  • Tail twitching

  • Difficulty jumping up onto counters or high surfaces

  • Hiding

  • Avoids petting or brushing

  • Overgrooming in one spot

  • Neglecting to groom entirely

  • Increased restlessness

  • New aggressive behavior

  • Inappropriate elimination (going outside the litterbox)

  • Loss of appetite

  • Increased purring

If you notice that your pet displays any of the above signs, your pet may be in pain. I recommend having them evaluated to see how their comfort level can be improved.

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