Recognising Pain in Cats

Authored by Hollie Furey

Cats suffering with chronic pain or illness can often hide their discomfort for long periods of time from their owners. If a cat is limping or reluctant to let you touch their paw, you can quite quickly recognise that your cat is in pain.

However, if a cat has a more chronic condition, such as dental disease or osteoarthritis, they may show varied signs of pain and often only display them when it is very uncomfortable for them. We want you to be able to recognise less obvious signs of your cat experiencing pain.

 

Behavioural Signs of Pain

  • Reduced appetite

  • Lethargy / Lack of Energy

  • Decreased interest in playing, socialising, going outside

  • Hiding away

  • Limping

  • Experiencing increased sensitivity to touch in specific areas of their body

  • Reduced activity - they may no longer jump up onto beds or sofas

  • Increase in aggressive mood or temperament

  • Vocalisation e.g. groaning, hissing, growling

  • Decreased grooming or increased grooming but to a specific area (leading to alopecia and sore skin)

 

Facial Expressions to Look Out For as Signs of Pain:

  • Your cat may squint or close their eyes

  • Their ears may be more flattened

  • Their mouth and cheeks may appear tense

My Cat is Showing Signs of Pain… What now?

If you have any concerns about your cat being in pain, please contact us for an appointment on  0121 270 5800 or send us a Whatsapp message on 07568 229686. Alternatively you can book online here.

Cat WellnessJames HornerPain