Animal Pain Awareness Month: Recognizing Signs of Pain in Your Pet

Know the Signs

There are obvious pain signals your pet may be giving you, including lethargy, heavy panting, and incontinence.  Other signs can be more subtle, and often mistaken for slowing down with age. Here are a few of key signs that you want to look out for and follow up on with your veterinarian.

• Decreased Activity: Your pet may not be playing like they used to or won’t go up/down the stairs. Loss of interest in daily walks.
• Difficulty Standing or Jumping: Unable to stand from a laying position. Cats may hesitate when jumping or repeatedly miss the mark.
• Decreased Appetite: No interest in food is a key sign of possible pain for your pet. It could indicate mouth pain or stomach problems.
• Overgrooming: Repeated licking or chewing the same area.