If there ever was a time when you wished your pet could talk, it was probably when you thought they were in pain. Unfortunately, our pets aren't able to tell us when they are experiencing pain, so it is up to you to determine if they might be in pain, or if it is something else. This article will cover the difference between acute and chronic pain and will list common signs of pain in both dogs and cats.
Acute Pain
Acute pain is typically obvious in pets and can be quite distressing to witness. It is usually in response to some kind of stimulus such as a crushing or twisting, or a tissue injury that is the result of a bruise, wound or surgical incision. Acute pain is generally short-lived and typically resolves within 3 days after the event that caused it.
Chronic Pain
Chronic pain describes any type of pain that lasts longer than expected, or pain that is associated with long-term diseases such as osteoarthritis. Symptoms of chronic pain may be more subtle than acute pain symptoms and can be mistakenly attributed to "getting old" or "slowing down", which often means that the underlying cause of pain is left untreated.
Other Types of Pain
Other types of pain that our pets can experience include pain from cancerous tumour growths or pain from chemotherapy or radiation treatment. Neuropathic pain is caused by nerve damage or damage to another part of the central nervous system, and can be difficult to diagnose.
Signs of Pain in Dogs
Physical signs:
- Heavy breathing
- Slowed reflexes
- Enlarged pupils
- Change in heart rate
Behavioural signs:
- Irritability
- Unusual restlessness or anxiety
- Mood or personality changes
- Withdrawn behaviour
- Licking, biting or overgrooming the site of pain
- Reduced activity
- Reluctance to lie down or difficulty standing after lying down
- Reduced appetite
- Whining or barking
Signs of Pain in Cats
Physical signs:
- Sitting still and hunched up
- Faster and more shallow breathing
- Change in heart rate
- Enlarged pupils
Behavioural signs:
- Irritability
- Unusual restlessness, anxiety or aggression
- Mood or personality changes
- Withdrawn behaviour and hiding
- Loss of interest in people or other pets or clingy behaviour
- Licking, biting or overgrooming the site of pain or neglecting to groom altogether
- Inability or reluctance to jump up onto surfaces
- Reluctance to lie down or difficulty standing after lying down
- Reduced appetite
- Excessive meowing, purring, growling or unusual vocalisations
- Doing their business outside of the litter box
Treating Pain in Pets
If you suspect your pet is in pain, you should never attempt to medicate them without first consulting a veterinarian. Many pain medications for humans can be fatal if administered to pets. Together with your veterinarian, you can develop a plan to treat or manage your pets pain ensuring they can maintain a good quality of life.
