Signs of Pain in Cats: How to Tell if Your Cat is in Pain

Behavioural Changes That Indicate Pain

When cats experience pain, their behaviour often changes before physical symptoms become apparent. These changes can be subtle, making careful observation vital for early detection.

Changes in Daily Activities

Cats in pain may suddenly avoid activities they once enjoyed. You might notice your cat no longer jumping onto favourite perches, playing with toys less frequently, or spending more time hiding in quiet areas. Some cats become more aggressive when touched, whilst others may seek extra attention and comfort. Contact your vet if you see changes.

Vocalisation Patterns

Changes in vocalisation can signal discomfort. Whilst some cats become more vocal with increased meowing, growling or hissing, others may become unusually quiet. Pay attention to any new vocalisations, particularly when your cat moves or is touched in specific areas.

Grooming Habits

A decrease in grooming often indicates pain. Cats may stop grooming altogether or focus excessively on one painful area. Poor coat condition, matted fur, or overgrooming specific spots can all signal underlying discomfort.

Physical Signs and Body Language

Understanding your cat's body language provides valuable insights into their comfort level. Physical signs of pain often manifest through posture changes and movement alterations.

Postural Changes

Cats experiencing pain often adopt a hunched posture with their back arched and head lowered. They may sit in unusual positions or appear tense even when resting. A reluctant to move or stiff gait when walking can indicate joint pain or general discomfort.

Facial Expressions

Facial changes provide clear indicators of pain. Watch for squinted eyes, flattened ears against the head, or a tense jaw. The whiskers may appear pulled back against the face rather than in their normal relaxed position.

Movement and Mobility

Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or use the litter tray properly may indicate pain. Cats with arthritis or joint problems often show hesitation before jumping down from heights or may seek alternative routes to avoid jumping altogether.

Understanding the Feline Grimace Scale

The Feline Grimace Scale is a scientifically validated tool veterinarians use to assess pain through facial expressions. This scale examines five facial features to determine pain levels.

Key Facial Features

The scale evaluates ear position, orbital tightening (squinting), muzzle tension, whisker position, and head position. Each feature receives a score, helping veterinarians objectively assess pain levels. Ears rotated outward or flattened, tightly closed eyes, and whiskers pulled forward or back all indicate discomfort.

Common Causes of Cat Pain

Understanding common pain sources helps identify potential problems early. Cats may experience acute pain from injuries or chronic pain from ongoing conditions.

Dental Problems

Dental disease affects many cats, particularly as they age. Signs include difficulty eating, dropping food, eating on one side of the mouth, or avoiding hard foods. Bad breath, drooling, or pawing at the mouth also indicate dental discomfort.

Arthritis and Joint Issues

Arthritis commonly affects older cats but can occur at any age. Signs include stiffness after rest, difficulty accessing high places, and reduced activity levels.

Internal Conditions

Gastrointestinal issues, urinary problems, and organ disease can cause significant pain. Changes in appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, or constipation may accompany internal pain. Cats with urinary pain often vocalise in the litter tray or urinate outside it.

How Vets Assess Pain in Cats

Professional pain assessment combines physical examination, behavioural observation, and diagnostic testing to identify pain sources and severity.

Physical Examination

Veterinarians perform comprehensive examinations, gently palpating different body areas to identify painful regions. They assess joint flexibility, check for swelling or heat, and evaluate overall body condition. Your cat's reaction to touch helps pinpoint problem areas.

Pain Scoring Systems

Veterinarians use validated pain scales combining behavioural observation, physical examination findings, and physiological measurements like heart rate. These systematic approaches provide objective pain assessment and help monitor treatment effectiveness.

Managing and Treating Feline Pain

Effective pain management requires a comprehensive approach combining medical treatment with environmental modifications and supportive care.

Medical Treatments

Pain medications specifically formulated for cats provide relief whilst minimising side effects. Never give human pain medications to cats, as many are toxic to felines. Your vet may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs, opioids, or other pain relievers depending on the condition.

Alternative Therapies

Acupuncture, physiotherapy, and laser therapy may complement traditional pain management. These treatments work particularly well for chronic conditions like arthritis, but should only be undertaken following recommendation of a vet. Weight management through proper diet and gentle exercise also reduces joint stress.

Environmental Modifications

Simple home adjustments significantly improve comfort for cats in pain whilst awaiting veterinary care. Provide steps or ramps to favourite spots, place litter trays in easily accessible locations, and offer soft bedding in warm, quiet areas. Food and water bowls at comfortable heights prevent neck strain.

When to Contact Your Vet

Contact your vet if you think your cat might be in any pain. Recognising when professional help is needed prevents minor issues becoming serious problems. Certain signs warrant immediate veterinary attention.

Emergency Warning Signs

Seek immediate care if your cat shows severe lethargy, complete loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, or inability to urinate. Sudden paralysis, severe vocalisation, or collapse require emergency treatment at a 24-hour emergency centre.

Routine Check-ups

Regular health checks help detect pain-causing conditions early. Annual examinations for younger cats and twice-yearly visits for senior cats allow early intervention. Discuss any behavioural changes with your vet, even if they seem minor.

Monitoring at Home

Keep a diary noting changes in behaviour, appetite, and activity levels. This information helps your vet identify patterns and assess treatment effectiveness. Photos or videos of concerning behaviours provide valuable diagnostic information.

Creating a Comfortable Environment

A supportive home environment significantly impacts your cat's comfort and recovery from painful conditions.

Safe Spaces

Provide warm, quiet retreats where your cat can rest undisturbed. Heated beds or pads offer comfort for arthritic joints, whilst elevated perches with easy access satisfy natural climbing instincts without causing strain.

Stress Reduction

Minimise stress by maintaining consistent routines and avoiding sudden changes. In multi-cat households, provide separate resources to prevent competition. Use pheromone diffusers to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety-related pain responses.

Activity Management

Encourage gentle play and movement within your cat's comfort zone. Short, frequent play sessions maintain muscle tone without overexertion. Puzzle feeders and interactive toys provide mental stimulation when physical activity is limited.