If a dog is in pain, you may hear about it. Cats are a different story. Many cats show discomfort so quietly that owners miss it entirely, or see the signs but interpret them as moodiness or age. Learning to read feline pain signals can help your cat get care sooner.
September is often used by veterinary groups to raise awareness of pain in animals, and cats are a big part of that conversation. If you think your cat may be in pain, contact your veterinarian.
Changes in Behavior
Behavior is often the first clue. Look for:
- Hiding more than usual, or choosing unusual hiding places
- Reduced interest in play, people or other pets
- Sleeping more, or seeming restless and unable to get comfortable
- Irritability, hissing or swatting when approached or touched
- Eating less, or approaching food and then walking away
- Litter box changes, including going outside the box
- Grooming less, leaving a rough coat, or overgrooming one area
Posture and Movement
A cat in pain may sit hunched with feet tucked tightly underneath, head lowered and back slightly rounded. Some cats lie very still in one spot for long periods. You may notice reluctance to jump, a stiff gait or hesitation on stairs. A cat that normally sleeps curled up may sleep stretched out or in an awkward position.
Facial Expressions
Researchers have studied how pain changes a cat’s face. One tool developed for veterinary use, the Feline Grimace Scale, looks at features such as:
- Ear position, with ears flattened or rotated outward
- Eyes that are squinted or partly closed
- Tension in the muzzle, which may look more oval and tight
- Whiskers held straight and pulled back
- Head held lower than the shoulders
Owners are not expected to score their cats, but knowing these features can help you notice when something looks off.
Common Sources of Pain in Cats
Pain in cats may come from many sources, including arthritis, dental disease, urinary problems, injuries, constipation and other medical conditions. Some causes can be urgent. A male cat straining in the litter box with little or no urine, a cat breathing with an open mouth or a cat that suddenly cannot use its back legs needs immediate veterinary care.
What to Do and What to Avoid
If you suspect pain, make an appointment and describe what you have seen. Videos taken at home can be very helpful, since many cats freeze or behave differently in the clinic.
Never give a cat human pain medication. Cats process many drugs differently than people or dogs, and some common pain relievers can be fatal to cats even in small amounts. Only use medications prescribed for your cat by a veterinarian.
The most important thing is to trust your instincts. You know your cat. If something seems different, even if you cannot quite name it, that is reason enough to check with your vet.
