Cats are good at hiding pain. But as a pet groomer who has spent a lot of time with cats, I know there are signs we can look for. This article will tell you how to tell if your cat is in pain. Knowing these signs helps you get your cat the help it needs.
Changes in Behavior
Less Active
A cat in pain often becomes less active. A cat that used to jump on the couch or run around may now just lie still. It may not play with toys anymore. If your cat seems to have no energy and stays in one place most of the time, it could be in pain. The pain makes it hard for the cat to move around like before.
More Aggressive
Some cats in pain get more aggressive. They may hiss, growl, or swat when you try to touch them. Usually friendly cats may act this way. This is because they are hurting. They do not want anyone to touch the painful area. They are trying to protect themselves.
Avoiding Contact
A cat in pain may avoid contact with you. It may not come to you when you call. It may hide under the bed or in a closet. The cat does not want to be bothered. It wants to be alone because it feels bad. If your cat suddenly starts avoiding you, it could be in pain.
Changes in Eating and Drinking
Eating Less
Cats in pain often eat less food. They may leave food in their bowl. A cat that used to love its food may now not be interested. The pain can make them lose their appetite. Or it may hurt when they chew or swallow. If your cat’s eating habits change, check for signs of pain.
Drinking Less
Just like eating less, a cat in pain may drink less water. Dehydration can make the cat feel even worse. If you notice your cat’s water bowl is not emptying as fast as usual, it could be a sign of pain. The cat may be too uncomfortable to get up and drink.
Changes in Food Preference
Some cats in pain may change their food preference. They may refuse dry food but eat a little wet food. Or they may avoid certain types of treats they used to like. This change can be because of pain in their mouth or stomach.
Changes in Body Language
Limping
If your cat is limping, it is in pain. Limping means there is something wrong with a leg or paw. The cat may hold one leg up or put less weight on it. It could be a sprain, a broken bone, or a cut. Limping is an easy-to-see sign that your cat needs help.
Stiff Body
A cat in pain may have a stiff body. It may walk slowly and carefully. Its back may be arched. The cat tries to move in a way that does not hurt as much. The stiffness can be because of pain in the joints or muscles.
Hunching Over
Some cats in pain will hunch over. They may curl up in a tight ball. Their head may be down, and their tail may be wrapped around them. This posture helps the cat protect the painful part of its body. If your cat often hunches over, it is likely in pain.
Changes in Grooming Habits
Grooming Less
Cats usually groom themselves a lot. But a cat in pain may groom less. It may not clean its fur as well as before. Its fur may look messy or unkempt. This can happen if the cat has pain in its neck, back, or legs. Grooming becomes too hard or painful for it.
Over-Grooming
On the other hand, some cats may over – groom. They may lick or bite one area of their body a lot. This can cause the fur to fall out or the skin to get red and sore. The cat may be trying to soothe the pain by grooming. Or the pain may be making the area itchy.
Changes in Vocalization
Meowing More
A cat in pain may meow more than usual. The meows may sound different. They could be louder, longer, or more high-pitched. The cat is trying to tell you it is not feeling well. It wants you to know it is in pain.
Making Other Sounds
Cats in pain may also make other sounds. They may groan, whine, or yowl. These sounds are not normal for a healthy cat. If you hear your cat making strange sounds, it may be in pain.
Changes in Sleep Patterns
Sleeping More
A cat in pain may sleep more than normal. The pain makes it tired. It may lie in one place and sleep for long hours. It does not have the energy to do other things. If your cat’s sleep time suddenly increases, check for signs of pain.
Sleeping Less
Some cats in pain may sleep less. They may move around restlessly. They cannot get comfortable because of the pain. If your cat used to sleep well but now has trouble sleeping, it could be in pain.
Changes in Litter Box Habits
Using the Litter Box Less
A cat in pain may use the litter box less. It may hold its pee or poop. This can happen if it hurts to squat or move around. The cat may be avoiding the pain that comes with using the litter box.
Missing the Litter Box
Some cats in pain may miss the litter box. They may pee or poop outside the box. It is not that they are being bad. The pain makes it hard for them to get to the box on time or use it properly.
Physical Signs
Swelling
Look for swelling on your cat’s body. Swelling can happen in a paw, leg, or any other part. It may be red or hot to the touch. Swelling means there is an injury or problem under the skin. It is a clear sign that your cat is in pain.
Wounds
Check your cat’s body for wounds. Wounds can be cuts, scratches, or bites. These can be painful. A wound may be bleeding, have pus, or look infected. If you find a wound, your cat is likely in pain.
Dental Problems
Look at your cat’s mouth. Bad teeth can cause pain. Check for red gums, broken teeth, or food stuck between teeth. If your cat drools a lot or has bad breath, it may have dental pain.
Conclusion
In the end, learning to spot if your cat is in pain is key. Cats can’t tell us in words when they hurt, so we must watch their actions, habits, and body closely. Small changes in behavior, eating, or body language can mean big problems. If you see any signs of pain, don’t wait. Take your cat to the vet right away. Early help can make your cat feel better fast. As a cat owner, caring for your cat’s health shows how much you love it. By knowing these signs, you can give your cat the best care and a happy life.
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