Is Your Pet in Pain? Simple Signs to Look for and How to Help

As pet owners, we all want our pets to be happy and healthy. However, pets can sometimes suffer from pain, and it can be hard to tell because they can't tell us what's wrong. Pain in pets can be caused by injuries, illness, or even ageing, and it's important to recognize the signs early so you can seek timely veterinary advice and support your pet's comfort.

Below, we cover some easy-to-spot signs that your pet might be in pain and what you can do to help them.

Why It's Important to Recognize Pain in Pets

Pets are good at hiding pain because, in the wild, showing pain can make them vulnerable to predators. But as loving pet owners, we need to be aware of changes in our pets' behaviour. Recognizing pain early allows timely veterinary evaluation, which may improve quality of life and help reduce the risk of further complications.

Common Signs That Your Pet Might Be in Pain

Pets can show pain in many ways, and sometimes the signs are very subtle. Here are a few things to watch out for:

Changes in Behaviour

If your pet is acting different than usual, it could be a sign they are in pain. They might become more quiet, less playful, or even more aggressive than usual. A normally friendly pet might snap or growl when you touch certain areas of their body.

What to do:

• Watch your pet closely
• If they seem more irritable or withdrawn, check with your vet to find out what might be causing the behaviour

Loss of Appetite

Pets that are in pain often lose interest in food or water. If your pet suddenly stops eating or drinking, it could be a sign of discomfort or illness.

What to do:

• Make sure your pet has access to fresh food and water
• If they refuse to eat or drink for more than 24 hours, visit your vet to rule out serious conditions

Limping or Difficulty Moving

Pain often affects how your pet moves. If your dog or cat is limping, hesitant to jump up, or having trouble walking, they may be in pain. Joint discomfort from conditions such as arthritis or injuries may make movement difficult.

What to do:

• Give your pet rest and avoid activities that could make the pain worse
• If the limping continues for more than a day, take them to the vet for evaluation

Excessive Licking or Scratching

If your pet keeps licking or scratching at a particular spot on their body, it could be because that area is painful. This may be associated with joint discomfort, skin conditions, or other health issues.

What to do:

• Try to prevent your pet from licking the area too much, as it can make the problem worse
• Take them to the vet to find out the cause of the discomfort and get the right treatment

Restlessness or Trouble Finding a Comfortable Position

When pets are in pain, they might have trouble getting comfortable. They may constantly change positions, pace around, or seem restless. This is often seen in pets with joint or abdominal pain.

What to do:

• Make sure your pet has a quiet, comfortable place to rest
• If they can't settle down, it's a sign they need professional help from a vet

Unusual Aggression

Pain can make pets irritable, and they might act aggressively, especially if you touch a sore area. If your pet, who is usually gentle, suddenly becomes aggressive, they are likely in pain.

What to do:

• Be gentle with your pet and avoid touching areas that might be causing pain
• If their aggression continues, see a vet to figure out the cause

Changes in Breathing or Vocalization

Laboured breathing, panting, or excessive crying can be signs that your pet is in pain, especially if they have trouble breathing or are vocalizing more than usual.

What to do:

• If your pet is having trouble breathing or making more noise than usual, take them to the vet immediately
• This may indicate a potentially serious condition requiring prompt veterinary attention.

How to Help Your Pet When They Are in Pain

Once you recognize the signs of pain in your pet, there are several steps you can take to help them feel better:

Visit the Veterinarian

• The first thing to do if you suspect your pet is in pain is to consult your vet
• They can examine your pet to determine the cause and recommend the right treatment
• Whether it's medication, therapy, or surgery, a vet will guide you in the best direction for recovery

Provide Pain Relief Medications

If your pet is in pain, your vet may prescribe pain relief medications. These medicines may be used to support pain management and comfort under veterinary supervision. Never give your pet human pain medications, as they can be toxic to animals.

Quick Points:

• Your vet may prescribe medications to manage pain, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility
• Never give human pain medications, as they can be toxic to animals

Make Your Pet Comfortable

• Create a calm, quiet space where your pet can rest
• Provide soft bedding and avoid noisy areas
• Ensure they feel safe and comfortable

Consider Joint Supplements

• If your pet suffers from arthritis or joint pain, supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin may be considered as part of supportive care, based on veterinary advice.
• Talk to your vet about the right supplements for your pet

Provide Physical Therapy

• Physical therapy can help pets recover from injuries or surgery
• It may be recommended as part of a pain-management plan for pets with chronic conditions, such as arthritis.

Conclusion

As pet owners, it's our job to notice when our pets are not feeling well and take action to help them. Recognizing the signs of pain early is crucial for preventing further discomfort and ensuring your pet stays healthy and happy.

If you notice any of the signs listed above, consult your veterinarian. With the right care, treatment, and support, you can help support your pet's comfort and overall well-being.

Remember, pet health care is about paying attention to your pet's needs and providing them with the love and care they deserve. By understanding the signs of pain and knowing how to help, you can be the best pet parent possible.

FAQs

1. How can I tell if my pet is in pain?

Watch for changes in behaviour, appetite, movement, restlessness, or vocalisation.

2. Why do pets hide pain?

Hiding pain is instinctive. It protects them from predators in the wild.

3. What should I do if my pet refuses food or water?

Monitor for 24 hours. If refusal continues, consult a veterinarian.

4. Can ageing pets have chronic pain?

Yes. Arthritis and joint stiffness are common in older pets.

5. Can I give my pet human painkillers?

No. Human medications are toxic to pets. Use only vet-prescribed medications.

6. When should I consult a vet immediately?

If your pet cannot walk, has laboured breathing, cries excessively, or shows sudden aggression.

7. Can supplements help joint pain?

Some may help, but always consult a vet before giving them.