How to Recognize Signs of Pain in Your Pet: Advice from Sunrise Blvd Animal Hospital
When it comes to pain, many pets suffer in silence. Without interrupting pain and treating the potential cause, symptoms can lead to other various health problems. The most common pet pain signs might not always be the most obvious, so it’s best to start by closely observing pet behavior.
Behavior Changes in Pets
Pets are remarkably attached to their daily routine. Chances are, day in and day out, you could clock your pet’s habits down to the minute. They feel secure when they know what’s about to happen, and depend on regular intervals of eating, going to the bathroom, exercising, and sleeping.
Whenever a pet’s behavior starts to shift, it’s worth trying to understand why. It could be related to simple aging, but most of the time, a clinical diagnosis can explain even subtle changes to the routine.
Changes in Physical Activity
For example, a previously active pet that suddenly wants to sleep all day should signal the need for an exam and diagnostic testing. But some signs of pain in pets are sneaky, and concealed very well by a pet that’s hardwired to hide any signs of illness or injury. This inherited survival instinct can mislead the good intentions of pet owners trying to meet a pet’s needs.
Common Signs of Pain
In addition to increased lethargy, hiding, or mobility challenges, signs of pain in pets can include:
- Shaking
- Panting
- Increased vocalization
- Purring
- Flattened ears
- A low, protective posture
- Limping or stiffness
- Aggression
- Excessive licking or scratching at a certain area
- Reluctance to play or move
- Touch avoidant
- Lip licking
Possibly the red flag that propels owners the most is a change in eating habits. A sudden or ongoing loss of appetite indicates the immediate need for veterinary care.
Questions to Ask
Acute pain that comes on strong in the wake of a sudden illness or injury may appear more intense than chronic or progressive pain associated with a long condition. To key into your pet’s type of pain, and it’s intensity, you might question:
- What time of day are pain symptoms more likely?
- Do symptoms occur after certain events, like meals or vigorous exercise?
- Do symptoms improve and subside only to come back again after some time?
- Are there other medical conditions at play that could worsen pain, such as dental disease?
- Is the pet’s environment safe and supportive? Did they injure themselves from a hop off the sofa?
Our in-house diagnostics create opportunities to understand what’s really going on beneath the surface. Many conditions that cause pain can be effectively treated with prescription medication, adding to a pet’s quality of life and longevity.
If you have further questions about signs of pain in your pet, please reach out to us at (916) 726-2334. Our veterinarians are always here to help your pet at Sunrise Boulevard Animal Hospital.