SOME GENERAL SIGNS OF PAIN IN DOGS AND CATS

Signs of pain may be:

Lethargy (listless,sleeping more)

Decreased appetite

Postural changes-the way the pet sits or stands may suddenly change.

Limping

Reluctance to move ( gets up slower or moves moves slower)

Reluctance to jump up or to go up stairs

Personality changes like hiding, restless, whimpers, lip smacking, more aggressive ( protecting painful areas)

Trembling – more then normal.

Panting- more then normal.

Ptyalism – (excess salivating) especially with mouth growth, dental issues)

Pets will sometimes excessively groom a painful area.

Cats with arthritic changes may have changes with liter box habits and may completely not use the liter box since uncomfortable to jump in box. Dogs may start going in house.

 

A lot of pets tend to hide signs of pain and may show only subtle signs or clues. This may be especially true when visiting a clinic due to increased endorphins from fear or excitement.

It’s important to observe your pet in its home environment to improve recognizing those subtle changes.

 

Raymond I. Bourgeois D.V.M.