Is Your Cat in Pain? How do You Know?

 

Cats are masters at hiding pain and discomfort.  In the wild, cats are both hunters and prey so there are very good reasons not to show pain.  Prey animals that seem weak are more easily hunted.  House cats don't face the same situation but they still have that ability.  Many pet owners are surprised to find out that their cat has been in pain during a visit to the vet where the problem is revealed.  However, a vet might miss the real cause of a cat's pain during a visit if the cat is stressed about being there.  So, it's up to you to be aware at home, when there is little or no stress for your cat.

Just like people who are in pain, a cat's behavior frequently indicates pain or discomfort.  We are able to say exactly what's bothering us or "where it hurts."  Cats can't do that - as much as we sometimes wish they could talk!

As responsible pet owners, you know your cat's normal behavior and habits better than anyone else.  Just like most other aspects of caring for a pet, you need to be vigilant.  If your cat is experiencing pain or not feeling well, you can detect the signs if you know what to look for.  It's important to watch for these signs because pain can indicate a serious health problem that needs a vet's attention right away.

The website beonligne.com has a great list of things of pain signals to look for in your cat:

"10.  Changes In Grooming Habits
By nature, cats are extremely meticulous.  If you notice your cat is not washing properly or only concentrating on their face and frontal body, that’s not normal. If your cat’s grooming habits have changed and his coat is being neglected, you need to get with your vet to find the best solutions.

9.  Change In Behavior
Our cats love being with us and stay engaged all the time.  But if your cat has become withdrawn or hides,  there could be something going on.  If he no longer welcomes you, will not sleep with you, and takes on behaviors that are not normal, this could be a sign that he is ill.

8.  Low Activity & Energy
As of late, your cat is not engaging in their normal activities such as playing with their toys. They are not going up and down the stairs or are having difficulties getting up on their paws.  They seem to constantly look for a comfortable place to rest.  You’ve noticed their sleeping patterns have changed or sleeping in really odd places.  On top of that, he or she seems restless.

7. What’s In The Purr
Many people misinterpret purring.  They think if their cat is purring, everything is fine with the world. We have a habit of equating purring with happiness.  What you might not understand, purring can be a sign of pain or an increase in the level of pain.

6. Litter Box Changes
If your cat is missing the litter box or having problems squatting there could be an issue.  Also, there are medical conditions that can cause your cat to use bedding because of added pain and actions associated with it.

5. Changes In Energy
In general, if your cat isn’t feeling well, his or her energy level will change and they will be less active.  This, in turn, will cause them to sleep more often and reduce other activities like jumping and running. Many times, when in pain your cat might choose to hide under the bed and couch or hide in a closet.

4. Food & Water Consumption
If your cat is in pain, they are probably eating less and drinking less or consuming abnormal levels of water. Too mean signs of diabetes. This could also be happening if your cat is having problems with his teeth or another area in their mouth, You might even notice they are dropping their food and water from their mouth.  If this seems to be the problem, contact your vet and get her in for an examination as soon as possible.

3.  Increased Irritability
Is your cat showing signs of aggression? Maybe grunting or hissing when people or other pets are around or attempting to approach her. They might have issues that will not allow them to be brushed or combed.  They might attempt to scratch or bite if the pain is moving or if you touch him and he believes this will increase the pain.

2. Changes In Their Appetite & Water
If your cat has lost interest in water and food, be sure to let your vet know as quickly as possible.  Your cat could be in pain or suffering from serious medical issues.

1.  Your Cat’s Posture
Many times when a cat suffers from pain or illness, they will sit bent over in a squatting position.  Their back will be bent higher than normal, their head down, and their front legs folded under them.  When he goes to bed, he might keep his paws folded under him instead of lying on his side."

Any of these signs will tell you something is going on with your cat.  If you see any of them, contact your vet right away and make sure your vet does a full work-up on your cat, including bloodwork and X-rays.  You may not just be helping to stop your cat's pain - you may be saving his life, too

CLICK HERE to read the whole article.