Is My Cat in Pain?

Cats are known for their independence and subtle behaviors, making it challenging to spot when they’re in pain. Their natural tendency to hide discomfort as a survival instinct means they can suffer in silence without showing obvious signs. As a cat owner, understanding how to detect pain in your feline companion is crucial for ensuring they receive the care they need.

The Difference Between Acute and Chronic Pain in Cats

Just like with dogs, pain in cats can be categorized into two main types:

• Acute Pain: This pain is sudden, and often caused by an injury or trauma, such as a broken bone or a wound. It’s usually short-term and resolves as the injury heals.
• Chronic Pain: This pain is long-lasting and can arise from conditions like arthritis or dental disease. It persists for weeks, months, or even years and often requires ongoing management.

How to Assess Your Cat’s Pain at Home

When assessing your cat for pain, it’s important to stay calm. Cats are sensitive to their owners’ emotions, and anxiety can exacerbate their discomfort. You don’t need special tools—just careful observation of your cat’s behavior and any changes. Remember, palpation should be left to veterinarians, as it can cause additional discomfort and increase the risk of injury.

Key Indicators Your Cat May Be in Pain:

• Changes in Grooming: Overgrooming or grooming less than usual can be a sign of pain or discomfort.
• Changes in Posture or Facial Expressions: Cats in pain might sit hunched over with their head lowered and back arched higher than usual. They might curl up tightly or lie with their legs tucked underneath them instead of being stretched out. Facial expressions may also change; a cat in discomfort might squint, close its eyes, flatten its ears, and have a tense appearance in its cheeks, nose, and mouth.
• Reluctance to Move: If a cat starts avoiding jumping, running, or climbing, it could be a sign of pain.
• Changes in Behavior: A cat that suddenly becomes withdrawn, hides more often, or shows aggression when handled could be experiencing discomfort.
• Appetite Changes: A decrease in appetite or reluctance to eat could indicate dental pain or general discomfort.
• Vocalization: Some cats may become more vocal when in pain, while others might be unusually quiet. Monitoring changes in their communication patterns is essential.
• Difficulty Using the Litter Box: Straining or avoiding the litter box can indicate pain or mobility issues.

Using Feline Pain Scales

A pain scale, similar to those used for dogs, can help gauge how much discomfort your cat may be experiencing. However, these scales can be complex and are best used by veterinarians. Pet parents should focus on observing their cat’s behavior and use their observations as a guide when discussing symptoms with a vet. The International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM) does have a helpful checklist for families to use to see if their cat is in pain. 

What to Do if You Suspect Your Cat is in Pain

If you notice signs that your cat may be in pain, act quickly. For mild pain, such as slight limping or minor changes in behavior, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to discuss your concerns. For more severe symptoms—such as refusal to move, frequent vocalization, increased hiding, or refusal to eat or drink—seek emergency veterinary care. Severe pain can escalate quickly, and early intervention is key to effective treatment. In some cases, consulting a veterinary pain management professional may be necessary to explore alternative therapies.

Treating Pain in Cats

Treatment for feline pain depends on the underlying cause:

• Acute Pain: Often treated with pain relief medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or opioids, under veterinary supervision.
• Chronic Pain: Managing chronic pain, like arthritis, may require a combination of medications, dietary supplements, physical therapies like acupuncture or laser therapy, and environmental modifications like ramps or softer bedding to improve comfort.

Recognizing and managing pain in cats requires close attention to their subtle behaviors and prompt action when something seems off. While cats may not always show obvious signs of discomfort, understanding how to spot changes in their behavior can help ensure they receive the care they need. By working closely with your veterinarian and observing your cat’s health, you can help improve their quality of life.