Cats often disguise the fact they are in pain. That may be because in the wild, cats that appear sick or injured are vulnerable to predators.

Cat pain can be caused by such things as arthritis, dental problems, urinary tract infections, bone disease and cancer. Pain is also common following a surgical procedure.

You are in the best position to look for the subtle changes in behavior that may indicate your cat is suffering. It’s important to stay alert, because the sooner your cat’s pain is diagnosed and treated, the sooner he or she can heal and resume a normal, happy life.

Vocalizing:

Meowing, purring, hissing, growling

Daily Habits:

Withdraws from social interaction, decreased appetite, changes in sleeping or drinking, fails to use the litter box, urinates frequently, won’t groom or grooms less, looks unkempt, sleeps more

Self-Mutilation:

Licking, biting, scratching a particular part of its body

Activity Level:

Restless, reluctant to move, has difficulty getting up from a laying position; repetitively gets up and lies down, trembles or shakes, limps, can’t leap as high, seeks more affection, avoids being petted or handled, hides

Posture:

Generally lays with feet underneath, arches back or tucks in abdomen

Facial Expression:

Grimaces, furrowed brow, vacant stare, glazed, wide-eyed or looks sleepy, enlarged pupils, flattened ears, pants when at rest

Self-Protection:

Protects a part of its body, doesn’t put weight on a limb, doesn’t want to be held or picked up

Aggressive: (especially a previously friendly cat)

Acts out of character, growls, hisses, bites, pins ears back

Never administer pain medications to a pet without consulting with your veterinarian. Many human pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, are poisonous and can be fatal to cats.

Whenever you have a question or concern about your cat’s health, please call us! (303) 494-0840