Is Your Pet in Pain? 5 Signs You Should Never Ignore
Featured in Houston Pet Talk, January/February 2024 issue
By Dr. Noaker
Most pets do an excellent job of hiding their pain. In the animal world, showing signs of pain can be seen as a weakness, making them vulnerable. This is a trait passed down from their ancestors living in the wild, who masked suffering to ward off predators. Unfortunately, these instincts mean that our pets often won’t show outward signs until the pain or illness has become quite severe.
Pet Pain Can Be Treated – If You Spot the Signs Early
There is good news! Breakthrough developments for treating pet pain are helping dogs and cats every day. However, pet owners need to understand that pain can affect any pet—regardless of size, breed, or age. The real trick is spotting signs of pain in your pet early. Left untreated, pain can lead to severe stress, loss of appetite, and depression, which can sometimes cause even more serious health issues.
Common Symptoms of Pain in Pets
1. Behavioral Changes:
Behavioral changes are one of the biggest signs that your pet may be in pain. Some pets become shy or defensive when hurting. If your normally friendly pet suddenly snaps at you, it may be masking pain. You might also notice difficulty walking up stairs, avoiding jumping, or a lack of interest in favorite activities. While obvious signs like limping are easier to detect, be sure to watch for stiffness or an arched back. Dogs in pain often lie flat on their sides rather than curled up and may seem slower or more tired. Unexplained accidents in the house can also be a sign, as it might be painful for your pet to get up or make it outside in time.
2. Lack of Appetite:
A sudden lack of appetite can often be due to discomfort. Just like sick humans, pets may not feel like eating or drinking when they're unwell, especially if it's painful to reach the food bowl. If your pet stops eating, it's important to seek veterinary care right away, as this could signal a serious health issue, including pain in their mouth or teeth.
3. Over-Grooming:
While grooming is normal for pets, over-grooming or focusing on one area could indicate pain. Pets may tend to a localized spot as a way of caring for a wound, even if no visible wound exists. This behavior is often a coping mechanism for the stress of pain or anxiety. Watch for excessive grooming and gently inspect the area.
4. Eye Changes:
The eyes can be strong indicators of pain in pets. Pain elsewhere in the body can cause dilated pupils, while eye pain itself may cause either dilated or constricted pupils. Squinting, particularly in dogs, can also indicate pain in the eyes or other parts of the body. Additionally, a “bloodshot” appearance may point to pain in the affected eyes.
5. Breathing Changes:
Pets in pain often have faster, more shallow breathing, or excessive panting without an obvious cause. You may notice changes in the movement of their abdominal muscles or chest, both involved in the breathing process. Cats, in particular, may have an increased heart or pulse rate, which often speeds up when the painful area is touched.
Get Help Early
Spotting early signs of pain can lead to a more comfortable outcome for your pet. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian or reach out to VERGI 24/7 for an evaluation. Your pet’s comfort and well-being are our priority!
