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As loving pet owners, we want nothing more than our furry, feathered, or scaly companions to be happy and healthy. Sadly, our beloved pets can’t always tell us when they’re hurting. Being able to recognise the signs of pain in our animal friends is crucial for their well-being and quality of life. Pain in pets can be subtle and easily overlooked, but it’s our responsibility as pet parents to be vigilant and attentive to any changes in our pets’ behaviour or demeanour.
Animals, by nature, often try to hide their pain as a survival mechanism. This instinct, while beneficial in the wild, can make it challenging for us to identify when our pets are suffering. That’s why it’s essential to familiarise ourselves with the various signs of pain across different species and to understand that pain can manifest differently in each animal.
Recognising signs of pain in pets
Pain manifests differently across various species, but there are some common indicators to watch for:
Dogs and Cats
- Changes in behaviour: A normally affectionate pet may become irritable or withdraw from interaction.
- Altered mobility: Limping, difficulty rising, or reluctance to climb stairs.
- Unusual vocalisation: Whimpering, growling, or excessive meowing.
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits: Loss of appetite or increased sleep.
Small Mammals
(Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, etc.)
- Decreased appetite: Refusing favourite treats or not eating at all.
- Altered grooming: Excessive grooming of a particular area or neglecting grooming entirely.
- Changes in posture: Hunched posture or reluctance to move.
Birds
- Feather plucking: Excessive preening or pulling out feathers.
- Changes in vocalisation: Unusual quietness or increased squawking.
- Altered perching behaviour: Staying on lower perches or the bottom of the cage.
Chronic vs. acute pain in pets
It’s important to understand the difference between acute and chronic pain as they are treated differently. Acute pain is sudden and typically short-lived, often resulting from an injury, surgery, or sudden illness. Signs of acute pain include sudden yelping or crying, limping or favouring a particular body part, rapid breathing or panting, dilated pupils and aggression when touched in a specific area.
Chronic pain persists over an extended period, often lasting months or years. It can affect a pet’s quality of life. Signs of chronic pain may be more subtle and include a gradual decrease in activity levels, changes in sleeping patterns, loss of appetite, reluctance to play or engage in previously enjoyed activities and persistent licking or chewing of a particular area.
Chronic pain can sometimes result from untreated acute pain, highlighting the importance of prompt veterinary care for any signs of discomfort in your pet.
When to consult your vet
If you notice any of the previously mentioned signs persisting for more than a day, it’s time to consult your veterinarian.
Seek immediate veterinary care if your pet shows:
- Difficulty breathing
- Signs of severe pain (shaking, panting, agitation)
- Seizures or loss of consciousness
- Significant wounds or injuries
- Sudden mobility issues
- Vision impairment or sudden blindness
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
You know your pet best. If you notice anything out of character, especially your pet’s behaviour seems to change quickly, it’s best to get a vet’s opinion.
Pets prone to painful conditions
- Older pets: As our animal companions age, they’re more likely to develop conditions like arthritis or dental disease. Regular check-ups become increasingly important as pets enter their senior years. Ensuring they have a comfortable environment with soft bedding, easy access to food and water, and gentle exercise routines will improve their quality of life.
- Pets with arthritis: This chronic condition can cause ongoing pain and reduced mobility. Management often involves a combination of medication, weight management, and environmental modifications. Provide ramps for easier access to furniture, non-slip mats for better traction, and heated beds to soothe achy joints.
- Injured pets: Accidents or trauma can lead to both acute and chronic pain. Proper rehabilitation and pain management are important for recovery. This may include physical therapy, restricted activity, and alternative therapies like acupuncture or hydrotherapy.
- Certain breeds: Some breeds are predisposed to conditions that cause pain, such as large dog breeds prone to hip dysplasia. If you have a breed prone to specific health issues, work closely with your vet to use preventative measures and early detection strategies.
- Pets with dental issues: Dental disease can cause serious pain and affect a pet’s overall health. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential, especially for toy or small dog breeds who are prone to dental problems.
Diet and nutrition for pets in pain
Proper nutrition plays an important role in managing pain and promoting overall health in pets:
- Anti-inflammatory diets: Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation. If appropriate, add a good quality fish oil supplement or incorporate fish into your pet’s diet, under veterinary guidance.
- Antioxidant-rich foods: Fruits and vegetables (appropriate for the species) provide antioxidants that help combat inflammation.
- Hydration: Ensure your pet has constant access to fresh filtered water. Proper hydration is essential for joint health and overall well-being.
- Special therapeutic diets: In some cases, your vet may recommend prescription diets formulated specifically for pets with certain health conditions.
Always consult with your veterinarian before making any big changes to your pet’s diet, especially if they’re on medication or have specific health concerns.
Supplements to support your pet:
![]() | ThreshHold Real MSM – The MSM used in THRESHHold is a vital building block for the regeneration of damaged connective tissue. It assists in maintaining glutathione levels, helping to decrease recovery time from injuries. THRESHHold also helps to reduce pro-inflammatory markers and increases anti-inflammatory markers to inhibit excessive inflammation caused by daily activity. MSM is widely used in pets and is very well tolerated. THRESHHold can be used lifelong without any side effects and is safe to use alongside other medications. |
![]() | Pegasus Pet Arthritis Complex – For acute inflammatory joint pain including arthritis, sciatica and rheumatism. |
![]() | Pegasus Pet Fracture/Osteo – For bone fracture repair, bone pain, tooth and bone health maintenance. |
![]() | Pegasus Pet Injury – For post-operative recovery, bruises, sprains, muscle, ligament and tendon strain, nerve and crush injuries, as well as shock associated with an accident |
![]() | Anima-Strath – Anima-Strath is a natural nutritional supplement that supports all types of recovery in pets. Often pets in pain do not want to eat. Anima-Strath supports a healthy appetite and increases the absorption of nutrients from food. |
Remember, your pet relies on you to be their advocate. As their human, it is your job to watch for changes in their behaviour and get them prompt veterinary care when needed. By staying informed about pain management, working closely with your veterinarian, and providing a nurturing environment, you’re giving your beloved pet the best chance at a comfortable, happy life.
This article first appeared on Anima-Strath and can be found here.
References and additional reading:
- Acute vs. chronic pain – Veterinary Medical Center of Hardeeville. Available at: https://www.vetmedcenterhardeeville.com/blog/the-difference-between-acute-and-chronic-pain
- Berst, Dr.H. (no date) Chronic vs. acute pain in cats, Zoetis Petcare. Available at: https://www.zoetispetcare.com/blog/article/chronic-vs-acute-pain-cats
- How do I know if my pet is in pain? (2021) Caring Pathways. Available at: https://caringpathways.com/pet-in-pain/
- How to recognise signs of pain in your pet (2020) Davies Veterinary Specialists. Available at: https://www.vetspecialists.co.uk/blog-post/recognising-signs-of-pain-in-your-pet/
- How to recognise signs of pet pain (2022) SPCA Pet Insurance. Available at: https://www.spcapetinsurance.co.nz/pet-insurance/the-good-life/spot-pain-pets
- Identifying the subtle signals of pet pain: Homey gnome veterinary clinic: Veterinarian in Oakdale, MN (no date) Homey Gnome Veterinary Clinic | Veterinarian in Oakdale, MN. Available at: https://homeygnomevet.com/identifying-the-subtle-signals-of-pet-pain/
- Recognising signs of pain in animals (2019) FOUR PAWS International – Animal Welfare Organisation. Available at: https://www.four-paws.org/campaigns-topics/topics/companion-animals/pain-in-pets/recognising-signs-of-pain-in-animals
- Simon Veterinary Surgical (2024) Caring for a senior dog with arthritis: Tips and strategies: Fundraising for pet surgery: California, Simon Veterinary Surgical. Available at: https://www.simonvetsurgical.com/news/7pe1o8hu42tycfpltda48lwntunib7
- Team, B., Fontana, M. reviewed by L. and Montgomery, Dr.J. (no date) 11 signs your pet needs to see a Vet, BetterVet. Available at: https://bettervet.com/resources/pet-health-care/signs-your-pet-needs-to-see-a-vet