How Do I Know if My Senior Cat Is in Pain?

November 1st, 2024

As the years go by, your feline friend may begin to slow down a little. Active, playful days give way to lazy naps and restful lounging. Even though it’s normal to see changes in behavior as your cat enters the golden years, they sometimes signal something’s not right. Cats are masters at hiding pain, regardless of their age or stage of life, so it’s important to remain observant and recognize when something’s amiss.

What Are Signs of Pain in Aging Cats?

The following are the most common signs of pain in senior cats:

Changes in Grooming Habits: Cats are incredibly clean creatures who spend much of their day grooming themselves. However, joint pain may make it harder to twist and bend for proper grooming, so you may begin to notice a matted, unkempt coat. Cats may also excessively lick around painful areas, sometimes causing bald patches.

Reluctance to Climb or Jump: It’s natural to slow down as the years go by, but giving up jumping on a favorite piece of furniture or going upstairs altogether is often a sign of joint pain from osteoarthritis. The progressive condition is common among aging cats, often leading to loss of mobility. Make sure you have everything your feline friend needs on each level of your home to minimize the need for going up and down stairs.

Changes in Engagement: While cats typicallysleep 16-18 hours a day, if you see your senior cat sleeping more than this, not leaving their favorite bed except to eat and use the litter box, or not engaging as much with the family, then they may be using sleep and rest to cope with osteoarthritic pain or another health issue.

Changes in Litter Box Behavior: One of the main reasons senior cats stop using their litter boxes or miss their mark is osteoarthritis. The progressive condition can leave them with painful hips and knees that make it hard to climb in. Choosing a tray with lower sides can make it easier for your furry companion to use the litter box with success.

Aggression When Touched: If your cat no longer welcomes being touched or petted, especially on certain parts of the body, this could be due to pain. Your feline friend may begin to withdraw to avoid being handled. Cats never want to show signs of vulnerability, so they mask their pain and may prefer to keep a distance.

Changes in Weight: Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss can signify trouble. Your furry companion may be avoiding food due to tooth pain resulting from infections or periodontal disease. Weight loss can also indicate other chronic health concerns, which may also lead to discomfort.

Excessive Vocalization: If your usually quiet cat meows and howls incessantly, it can be a sign of pain. Cats prefer to mask pain, so if they’re vocalizing more than usual, they’re likely experiencing severe discomfort. Growling and hissing may be telling you to keep your distance to avoid being touched. Another subtle sign of pain is sometimes purring, which helps a cat self-soothe.

Compassionate Care for Senior Cats in Kirkland, WA

As a pet parent, you know your cat best. If you notice any subtle changes or recognize signs of pain in your aging cat, contact All About Cats Veterinary Hospital to schedule a consultation. We offer pain management protocols and provide guidance to ensure your furry companion enjoys a pain-free life. You can always count on us for compassionate care because, after all, we are all about cats!