Hiding signs of pain and seeming to be fine are key tools of survival for animals therefore recognizing when your dog or cat is in pain can be tricky. However there are a few signs that our pets communicate when they are in pain and learning to recognize the signs of pain makes it easier to end the suffering for the animal who may be experiencing pain from dental disease, arthritis or an acute injury.

An animal in pain may withdraw or hide more than usual. This is a protective measure while trying to heal and also a sign that all is not well. A dog may also limit his intake of food or go off food altogether. When you see these behaviours consistently it may be that your dog or cat is in pain.

Physiologically, there is a lot of evidence that cats, dogs and other mammals likely feel pain just like humans.

There are also differences in pain experienced by cats and dogs such as acute pain or chronic pain. If your cat or dog has had an injury you will be able to recognize the signs of acute pain that the animal may be experiencing with associated movements such as favoring the injured area, or limping, or repeatedly licking an open wound injury. There are various levels of acute pain that dogs and cats experience and if you are unsure it is always advisable to have the pet examined by a veterinarian. Acute pain is often treated with medication, minor surgery or simply rest.

Chronic pain continues for much longer periods such as a progressive disease like arthritis. As pet guardians we often mistake older pets ailments as signs of 'old age' rather than chronic pain. This is in part because dogs and cats are good at pretending there isn't a lot of pain as a survival tactic when in fact the pain may be chronic. If you suspect that there may be an issue with pain it is imperative to find out at the early stages where treatment can begin. This will also relieve your pet of the pain for a more comfortable existence.

Other signs of pain

Suddenly drooling, moving slower than usual, whimpering or appearing restless/lethargic are all symptoms that dogs and cats use to communicate that they are not feeling well and very possibly in pain. Your cat or dog may change appearance with a dull coat, enlarged pupils and erratic panting. If these symptoms persist then a visit to your veterinarian is recommended. Prevention or the early stage diagnosis of a cat or dog with an illness or injury will ease the discomfort sooner and make treatment easier in many ailments and diseases.

Wellbeing and happiness

Recognizing pain in your dog or cat is critical for their longterm health and happiness. If you are unsure then your veterinarian can help with an examination and recommend treatment if necessary. As animal guardians we have to help our pets when they seems out of sorts. That's a promise that we have to keep for their life time as responsible guardians.