Recognising Pain in Cats: A Guide for Owners

Cats are notoriously good at hiding pain, a trait that helped their wild ancestors avoid predators. However, this behaviour can make it challenging for cat owners to recognise when something is wrong. Unaddressed pain can lead to serious health complications and a reduced quality of life for your feline friend.

Understanding the subtle signs of pain in cats is crucial for ensuring their wellbeing. In this article, we’ll help you identify the often-overlooked symptoms of pain in cats, explain common causes, and provide advice on what to do if you suspect your cat is in discomfort.

Why Do Cats Hide Pain?

Cats are both predators and prey in the wild, and showing signs of pain or weakness can make them vulnerable. While your domestic cat may not face these threats, this instinctive behaviour remains, making it difficult to spot when they are unwell or injured.

As a cat owner, being observant and proactive is key to recognising pain early and seeking appropriate care.

Signs of Pain in Cats

Cats often express pain in subtle ways, and these signs can be mistaken for normal behaviour or ageing. Look out for the following:

1. Changes in Movement and Activity

• Reluctance to jump, climb, or move as they normally would

• Limping or favouring one leg

• Stiffness, especially after rest

• Reduced playfulness or activity levels

2. Altered Grooming Habits

• Excessive licking or chewing of a specific area, which may indicate discomfort

• Neglecting grooming altogether, leading to a messy or unkempt coat

3. Changes in Appetite and Drinking

• Loss of appetite or difficulty eating, particularly hard food

• Increased or decreased water intake

4. Vocalisations

• Increased meowing, growling, or purring (cats may purr when in pain as a self-soothing mechanism)

• Hissing or crying when touched

5. Behavioural Changes

• Hiding more often or seeking solitude

• Becoming more aggressive or irritable when approached or handled

• Reduced interaction with family members or other pets

6. Postural Changes

• Sitting or lying in an unusual position to avoid putting pressure on a painful area

• Hunched back or tensed body posture

7. Litter Box Issues

• Avoiding the litter box, which may indicate pain while squatting or discomfort due to urinary or digestive problems

Common Causes of Pain in Cats

Pain in cats can stem from a variety of conditions, including:

• Arthritis is a common issue in older cats, causing joint stiffness and discomfort.

• Dental problems, like gum disease, tooth decay, or oral injuries can make eating painful.

• Injuries, like sprains, fractures, or wounds from fights or accidents.

• Internal issues, such as conditions like urinary blockages, kidney disease, or gastrointestinal problems.

• Cancer or tumours can also cause pain depending on their location and severity.

When to See a Vet

If you notice any of the signs listed above or suspect your cat may be in pain, it’s important to consult your vet as soon as possible. Early diagnosis can help identify the underlying cause and prevent further complications.

Your vet may perform a thorough examination, including diagnostic tests such as X-rays or bloodwork, to determine the source of the pain and recommend appropriate treatment.

How to Help a Cat in Pain

While only a vet can diagnose and treat the root cause of your cat’s pain, there are steps you can take to provide comfort in the meantime:

• Create a comfortable environment and provide a quiet, safe space for your cat to rest.

• Avoid self-medicating, never give your cat over-the-counter pain relief medications meant for humans, as these can be toxic.

• Follow your vet’s advice - once diagnosed, adhere to the treatment plan, which may include pain relief, physiotherapy, or lifestyle changes.

• Monitor their progress and keep track of your cat’s behaviour and report any changes to your vet.

The Importance of Regular Vet Visits

Because cats are so skilled at masking pain, regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for spotting issues early.

Routine exams can help identify problems before they escalate, ensuring your cat stays happy and healthy.

We believe preventing disease is a far better way of helping your pet stay fit, comfortable, happy and healthy. So we’ve created the Vital Pets Club to make sure every pet owner has easy access to the best pet care at an affordable price.