How to Spot Signs of Pain in Your Pet: What Every Pet Parent Needs to Know

As pet parents, our main goal is to keep our furry friends happy and healthy. But here’s the reality—our pets can’t tell us when they’re hurting, so it’s up to us to pick up on the signs, whether they’re subtle or more obvious. Let’s explore how to spot signs of pain in your pet, and what to keep an eye out for.

Behavioral Changes: The First Red Flag of Pain in Your Pet

One of the first things to notice is any changes in behavior. If your usually sweet and cuddly pet suddenly becomes grumpy or aggressive, that’s a big red flag. They might avoid you, hide, or show less interest in snuggling. For instance, after Delia tore her left CCL last year, she would lay with her legs away from us, or in a different area altogether. This was a big red flag that my girl wasn’t feeling good.

You should also look for signs of restlessness. If your pet is pacing, can’t seem to find a comfortable position, or is shifting around a lot, they might be experiencing discomfort. Changes in sleep patterns—like sleeping way more or less than usual—are also something to pay attention to.

Physical Signs: When Movement Becomes a Challenge

Next, let’s talk about physical signs of pain. Limping or stiffness is a clear indicator that something’s not right. If your pet hesitates to jump, climb stairs, or get up from lying down, it’s time to take note.

Watch for any changes in posture, such as hunching their back or favoring one side. Shaking or trembling can also be a sign of pain, especially if it happens out of the blue. And don’t forget to check their grooming habits—if your dog or cat is obsessively licking or chewing a specific area, it could mean that spot is hurting. This is how I know when Chewy’s Angular Limb Deformity is bothering him. He licks his leg and moves a bit slower.

Vocal Cues: When Your Pet Tries to Tell You Something’s Wrong

Even though our pets can’t talk, they communicate their discomfort through their sounds. If your dog is whining, whimpering, or yelping more than usual—especially when they’re touched or moving—it might be a sign of pain. For cats, extra meowing could be their way of telling you something’s up. When Delia injured her leg last year, she was running after her ball, when she yelped, stopped, and held her leg up. She hobbled over to me in obvious pain, and I took her to the vet right away. It turned out she had torn her left CCL. More on that in an upcoming post!

Changes in Eating and Drinking: A Sudden Loss of Appetite

We all know how much our pets love their food, so if your furry friend suddenly loses interest in their meals or isn’t drinking as much water, that’s a big clue. Difficulty eating—like dropping food or only chewing on one side—could also indicate discomfort.

Bathroom Habit Changes: When Accidents Start Happening

If your normally house-trained pet suddenly starts having accidents indoors, pain could be the culprit. Straining or crying when going to the bathroom is another sign that something isn’t right.

Appearance: A Messy Coat and Unexplained Weight Loss

Finally, take a look at your pet’s appearance. Cats, especially, are meticulous groomers, so if they suddenly look scruffy, it might be because they’re in too much pain to groom themselves. Unexplained weight loss is another sign that shouldn’t be ignored.

What to Do If You Notice These Signs

If you notice any of these signs in your pet, the best thing you can do is reach out to your vet. They can help determine the cause of your pet’s pain and recommend the best course of action. Remember, catching pain early can make a world of difference in keeping your pet happy and healthy.

How Can You Ease Your Pet’s Pain?

As pet parents, it’s heartbreaking to see our furry friends in pain. Here are some practical steps to help ease their discomfort:

1. Consult Your Vet: Always start by getting a professional diagnosis. Your vet can recommend appropriate treatments and medications tailored to your dog’s needs.
2. Medication: Follow your vet’s recommendations on pain relief medications. Never give your dog over-the-counter human pain relievers, as many are toxic to pets.
3. Comfortable Resting Area: Create a cozy space for your dog with soft bedding. A quiet area can help them relax and feel secure.
4. Gentle Exercise: Depending on your vet’s advice, light, gentle walks can help maintain mobility without putting too much strain on your dog.
5. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying a warm compress can soothe sore muscles, while cold packs can reduce swelling. Always use a barrier to protect your dog’s skin.
6. Weight Management: Keeping your dog at a healthy weight reduces stress on their joints. Consult your vet for dietary recommendations.
7. Supplements: Joint supplements, like glucosamine and chondroitin, may help alleviate pain. We use pawTree’s Joint Support Plus (affiliate link) and Adored Beast Apothecary’s Jump for JOYnts to care for Delia and Chewy’s joints.  Discuss with your vet before starting any new supplements.
8. Massage and Acupuncture: These alternative therapies can provide relief. I’ve studied canine massage for many years. I used it as an integral part of my Nicky’s healing after he was injured in an attack.
9. Monitor Their Behavior: Keep an eye on any changes in your dog’s eating, drinking, or bathroom habits. If their pain seems to be worsening, contact your vet.
10. Stay Close: Sometimes, just being near your dog can provide comfort. Spend time with them, offering gentle pets and reassuring words.

Your dog’s comfort is important, and taking steps to manage their pain can make a significant difference in their quality of life.

Being in tune with your pet’s behavior and physical health is one of the best ways to ensure they live a comfortable, pain-free life. After all, our pets give us so much love—it’s our responsibility to make sure they’re feeling their best every day.

Always keep communication open with your vet for the best approach. 🐾❤️