PAIN (HOW DOGS & CATS SHOW PAIN)
WHAT THIS SYMPTOM USUALLY MEANS
Pets hide pain instinctively. Signs include limping, restless pacing, panting, hiding, reluctance to jump, decreased grooming, or sudden aggression. Pain may originate from joints, abdomen, mouth, spine, or internal organs.
MOST COMMON CAUSES
MILD CAUSES
• Sprains
• Mild arthritis flare
MEDICAL CAUSES
• Dental pain
• Arthritis
• GI pain
• Urinary tract disease
• Spinal pain
EMERGENCY CAUSES (HIGH CONCERN)
• Abdominal pain
• Inability to walk
• Severe back pain or crying out
• Vomiting + pain → obstruction
• Pain after trauma
RED FLAGS: WHEN THIS IS AN EMERGENCY
• Pain + collapse
• Pain + vomiting
• Pain + bleeding
If you’re unsure, treat it as urgent.
AT-HOME CARE YOU CAN START NOW
• Do NOT give human pain meds
• Restrict movement
• Keep comfortable
WHAT A VETERINARIAN WILL CHECK
• Pain assessment
• Neurological exam
• Abdominal palpation
• Imaging
• Bloodwork
MOST LIKELY DIAGNOSES (BASED ON 40 YEARS OF CASES)
• Arthritis
• Dental disease
• Abdominal pain
• Back pain