Signs Your Cat Is in Pain

September 1st, 2019

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Cats are masters at masking their pain. It can be extremely challenging to recognize symptoms that something is off with your kitty. While some cases are quite obvious such as limping or injuries, other signs of pain can be far more subtle. Following are some tips to help you recognize cat pain symptoms early on and get your feline friend the needed help.

Signs Your Cat Is in Pain

A cat in pain will often display behavioral changes that serve as tips to pet parents that something is off. Cats may hide more often, may have a general decrease in energy and activity levels, and may begin to lose their interest in people, other pets, or their favorite activities. They may neglect to groom themselves or may start over-grooming in specific areas. Hurting cats may be restless or aggressive, or may begin to purr and meow excessively.

Other signs of pain include breathing changes, unusual vomiting, a loss of appetite, changes in drinking habits, clingy behavior, or other noticeable changes in your cat’s personality and demeanor. Pain may cause a cat to stop using the litter box because it is uncomfortable to get into it. You may also notice that your kitty stops climbing or jumping onto favorite hideouts.

How Cat Parents Can Help

Cats in pain may be more likely to bite, so be careful. Pay attention to your cat’s behavior, breathing, heart rate, and even appearance changes. You know your cat best, so if you notice something that doesn’t seem right, a visit to the veterinarian is probably warranted. Never give your cat any medication unless instructed to do so by your vet.

Some ways to help your cat is by relocating the bed, food dishes, water bowls, and the litter box to easily accessible areas. Make sure the litter box is easy to climb in and out of. You may want to replace a litter box with deep sides or a lid for one with an open, shallow structure. Keep young children or other pets away from your cat until you determine what is going on.

Keep in mind that prevention is the best approach. As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Routine annual veterinary exams and a well-balanced diet will go a long way toward preventing your cat from developing a painful condition.

Quality, Gentle Feline Care in Kirkland, WA

Contact All About Cats Veterinary Hospital to learn more about preventative care for your furry friend. In the event you suspect your kitty is in pain, make sure to contact us immediately to ensure we diagnose and treat any condition before it progresses. You can always count on us for quality, purr-fectly compassionate care!