Signs of Pain in Dogs and Cats: Can You Spot the Signs?
How can you tell if your pet is in pain?
Our pets can’t tell us when something hurts, and sometimes the signs of pain can be very subtle. Dogs and cats may show small changes in their behaviour, movement or daily routine rather than obvious signs that they are uncomfortable. Knowing what to look out for can help you spot when your pet might need some extra support.
You know your pet better than anyone, so if something feels different or you notice a change in their usual behaviour, it’s always worth checking with your vet.
How Can You Tell If Your Dog Is in Pain?
Dogs can show pain in lots of different ways. Some may become quieter or withdrawn, while others may seem restless or behave differently from normal.
Changes in movement
Changes in the way your dog moves can be an important sign of pain or discomfort. You might notice that your dog:
Seems stiff, particularly after resting
Starts limping or favouring a leg
Slows down or struggles on walks
Finds it harder to get up or lie down
Becomes reluctant to jump onto furniture or into the car
Hesitates when using stairs
Sometimes these changes can be gradual, particularly in older dogs, so it’s easy to put them down to “just getting older”. However, slowing down or becoming less mobile can be a sign that your dog is uncomfortable and may benefit from veterinary advice.
Changes in behaviour
Pain can affect your dog’s usual personality. You may notice that they are:
Quieter or more withdrawn
Restless or unable to settle
Less interested in walks or play
Less keen to interact with you
More irritable than usual
A change in your dog’s normal behaviour is always worth paying attention to, particularly if it happens alongside other changes.
Changes when eating
Dental pain or discomfort in the mouth can sometimes be difficult to spot. Keep an eye out for changes such as:
Eating less than usual
Dropping food
Chewing differently
Being reluctant to eat
Showing discomfort when eating
If your dog’s eating habits have changed, our team can help you work out what might be causing the problem.
Licking or protecting an area
Repeatedly licking, chewing or protecting one particular area of the body can be a sign that something is painful or irritated. If you notice your dog focusing on a particular part of their body more than usual, it’s a good idea to have it checked.
How Can You Tell If Your Cat Is in Pain?
Cats are particularly good at hiding pain, which means the signs can sometimes be even harder to recognise. For cats, a change from their normal behaviour can be one of the biggest clues that something isn’t right.
Hiding or becoming withdrawn
If your cat is spending more time hiding or keeping to themselves, it could be a sign that they are feeling uncomfortable.
You may notice that your cat:
Hides more than usual
Becomes less interactive
Is less interested in play
Seems quieter or more withdrawn
Avoids being handled when they would normally enjoy attention
Changes in grooming or movement
Cats are usually very particular about grooming themselves, so a change in their grooming habits can be an important sign.
You might notice:
A scruffier or less well-groomed coat
Reduced grooming
Reluctance to jump onto furniture or their usual favourite spots
Changes in the way they walk or move
Less activity than normal
Because cats can be so good at hiding discomfort, even small changes are worth noticing.
Trust Your Instincts
There isn’t always one obvious sign that a pet is in pain. Sometimes it’s simply that they aren’t quite themselves.
You know your pet better than anyone. If you notice changes in their behaviour, movement, appetite, grooming or normal routine, trust your instincts and get in touch with your vet. It’s always better to ask if you’re unsure. Our team is here to listen, answer your questions and help you understand what might be going on.
If you’re worried that your dog or cat may be in pain, please contact us. We’re always happy to help and support you in getting your pet feeling like themselves again.