Recognizing and Managing Chronic Pain in Pets
Pets can suffer from chronic pain just like humans can. But unlike humans, pets can’t tell us when they are experiencing chronic pain. At least, they can’t speak our language to let us know. But our furry friends give us plenty of signs that they’re not feeling well.
At Curem Veterinary Care, we speak your pet’s language. We’ll show you how to recognize and manage chronic pain in pets.
Recognizing Chronic Pain in Animals
Unlike acute pain from something like a cut or a broken bone, chronic pain in cats and dogs comes with subtler symptoms. Chronic pain can be caused by joint conditions like arthritis, dental disease, or pain from an underlying condition like cancer.
Since dogs and cats are so different in how they show pain, we’ll break down the symptoms to watch out for in both.
Signs of Chronic Pain in Cats
If your cat is in chronic pain, he’s probably feeling tired, cranky, and depressed. He can’t tell you that he’s hurting, but he may:
- Eat or drink less than usual
- Stop grooming himself (and start looking disheveled)
- Resist being picked up, petted, or handled in any way
- Urinate or defecate outside of the litter box
- Howl or meow more than usual
- Limp, have trouble leaping, or move stiffly
- Sleep more than he normally would
Bring your kitty to the vet as soon as possible when you notice these signs of chronic pain in cats. Your veterinarian can use diagnostic testing to get to the bottom of your furry friend’s woes and provide the appropriate treatment.
Signs of Chronic Pain in Dogs
Unlike an injury that causes your dog to yelp in pain, chronic pain can start out slowly and get worse over time. Your dog might:
- Whine frequently throughout the day
- Resist being petted or played with
- Limp
- Sleep more than usual
- Struggle to run, jump, or climb stairs
- Lick herself excessively
- Have a glazed or distant look in her eyes
Some of these symptoms are mistaken for signs of advancing age. While dogs are more likely to experience arthritis and other health conditions as they get older, untreated chronic pain may be unrelated to these issues.
Pet Pain Management
Managing chronic pain in dogs and cats can be tricky, and it’s best not to try any home remedies before speaking with your veterinarian. Your vet can use diagnostic testing to get to the root of your dog or cat’s chronic pain. Once they know what’s bothering your pet, they can treat the underlying cause and put together a pain management plan.
Some pets benefit from prescription pain relievers. Others thrive with laser therapy, supplements, prescription foods, or acupuncture. Together, you and your veterinarian can help your pet feel better.
If you live in the Mesa area, give Curem Veterinary Care a call at (480) 787‑0544 to help your pet with chronic pain.