DR. JEREMY PROSSER, D.V.M.

brewertonvet@gmail.com

Since cats are known for being adventurous and curious, it’s unavoidable that your cat might catch themselves in a pickle, leading to an injury. As their owners, it's our responsibility to recognize the subtle signs and provide effective pain management for our feline buddies. 

In this guide, we'll explore the dos and don'ts of pain management for cats, shedding light on the signs that indicate your cat might be in pain and offering practical solutions to ease their discomfort.

What are the Signs Your Cat’s in Pain?

Depending on your cat’s personality and behavior, they may be masters at hiding their pain. However, if you look closely enough, then you should be able to recognize these small indicators that they’re actually suffering in silence. Here are the most common signs that your cat’s in pain, so don’t overlook these!

Doesn’t Want to Be Picked Up

You may be used to your cat being clingy and affectionate, but if you notice that they’re more hesitant to be picked up, then this can be a clear indicator that something’s not right and it could be that they’re in pain. Cats are generally resilient, so a reluctance to be held might be an indicator that they're experiencing discomfort.

Unexpected Reactions When Approached

If your cat is known to be friendly and then they start hissing, growling, or swatting all of a sudden when approached, then it could be another sign that they’re in pain. Changes in behavior, especially aggression, are essential cues to pay attention to.

Sudden Change in Mood

Cats are creatures of habit, so if your easygoing cat becomes moody or irritable, it might be time to investigate the root cause. If they’re having mood swings all of a sudden, then it can often be linked to underlying pain issues.

Dilated Pupils

While dilation of pupils can be a reaction to various stimuli, persistent dilation without apparent cause might indicate that they’re in pain. Keep an eye on your cat's eyes, and observe other possible symptoms to discern if they’re actually in pain.

Limping or Stiffness

Observe your cat's movements. If you notice any limping or stiffness when they walk around, it's a strong indicator that they might be in pain. If your cat has arthritis then that’s another common culprit.

Decreased Appetite

If you catch your cat not eating as much or avoiding their meals, their sudden lack of interest in food could be a red flag. Pain or discomfort can affect a cat's appetite, and a decrease in their food intake may point toward an underlying issue.

Anti-Social

Even if your cat is loving and affectionate, they’re still independent creatures for the most part. However, if your sociable cat suddenly withdraws from interactions, then it's worth investigating. Social withdrawal could mean that they’re in pain.

What to Do When Your Cat’s in Pain

Don’t panic! We get how frustrating it can be to witness your cat in pain. So, here’s what you can do to effectively help your cat in pain.

Observe Your Cat

The first step in effective pain management is keen observation. Pay attention to any changes in behavior, habits, or physical appearance. The better you understand your cat's normal demeanor, the easier it becomes to identify if they’re going through something.

Limit Their Movements

Rest is important for a cat in pain. Try modifying your house and creating a comfortable and quiet space for them to retreat to, limiting their movements to avoid exacerbating any discomfort.

Keep Them Calm

Stress can make their pain feel much worse. The most important thing you need to do is to make sure they’re not extremely stressed. Minimize loud noises and sudden movements, providing a secure and peaceful atmosphere for your cat to relax.

Don’t Give Medication Without the Go Signal

When your cat’s in pain, it can be tempting to go to your own medicine cabinet and give them the first over-the-counter medication you see to help alleviate it. However, it’s always important to consult the vet before giving them any drugs. The wrong medication or dosage can give your cat adverse effects.

Give Them Comfort

Anyone in pain deserves comfort, and your cat is no exception! Give them soft bedding, warm blankets, and a cozy environment to ensure your cat feels secure and comfortable. A warm and inviting space can contribute significantly to their overall well-being.

Call the Vet

If you suspect your cat is in pain and it’s worsening, then you have to reach out to your veterinarian immediately. Professional advice is important in determining the root cause of the pain and establishing an effective treatment plan. It also helps to relieve your anxiety since you know you’re getting proper advice.

Follow The Vet’s Recommendations

Once you've consulted with your vet, follow their recommendations diligently. Whether it's medication, lifestyle changes, or additional tests, following your vet's advice is key to your cat's recovery.

Is it Okay to Give Human Pain Medication to Cats?

Many pet owners may wonder if it's safe to give their cats human pain medication. The answer is no. There’s a reason why labels have to indicate to keep the medication away from children and pets. Medications designed for humans can be toxic to cats, causing severe complications and even fatalities. To be safe, ask your vet for feline-specific pain relief options.

What Can I Give My Cat for Pain?

There are specific types of medication that are safe to give to your cat. The following here are a few examples that you can give your cat for pain. But be sure to consult your vet about it first before administering it to your cat.

NSAIDs

Ensure your cat stays hydrated. Offer wet food, broth, or water, and encourage them to drink more by placing multiple water bowls around the house.

Opioids

While a decreased appetite is common, if it looks concerning to you, make sure to monitor their overall food intake. If they're refusing to eat entirely, consult your veterinarian.

Omega Fatty Acids

Stress can exacerbate health issues. Create a calm and comfortable environment for your cat, minimizing loud noises and sudden changes.

Supplements

Provide a cozy and warm place for your cat to rest. Use blankets or beds to create a comfortable spot, helping them recover.

Other Pain Management Alternatives

If you don’t want to give your cat any medication and want a more natural and holistic approach to managing their pain, there here are other pain management alternatives you can try on your cat that are just as effective.

Physical Rehabilitation

If your cat is showing signs of heatstroke, help them cool down by placing a damp cloth on their paws or using a fan. Avoid using ice directly, as it can be too harsh.

Massage Therapy

If your cat is sick, consider isolating them from other pets. This prevents the potential spread of infections and allows you to monitor their condition more closely.

Acupuncture

Consult your vet before administering any medication, but over-the-counter options like acetaminophen (for dogs only) or specific veterinary-approved medications may help alleviate fever.

Heat/Ice Packs

Applying heat or ice packs, depending on the nature of the pain, can offer relief. Always wrap the packs in a cloth and use them for short durations, monitoring your cat's reaction.

How to Modify Your Home for Your Cat in Pain

As their owner, we want to make sure that our cats are in a safe and stress-free environment while they’re still recovering. Here’s how you can modify your home in simple ways in the meantime so that they can rest and recuperate with ease.

Place Litter Boxes in Easily Accessible Areas

Cats in pain may struggle to reach their usual spots, so consider placing litter boxes in easily accessible locations. This ensures that your cat doesn't have to navigate obstacles to relieve themselves.

Keep Food and Water Bowls Within Easy Reach

Similarly, make sure food and water bowls are placed at a convenient height. Elevated bowls reduce the strain on your cat's neck and back, making mealtimes more comfortable.

Install Non-Slip Flooring

Cats in pain may find it challenging to maintain their usual agility. If you don’t have non-slip flooring installed yet, then it’s about time you do. It prevents accidental slips and falls, ensuring a safer environment for your feline companion.

Don’t Leave Your Cat in Pain!

When it comes to understanding and managing pain in cats, you need to have a keen eye and a compassionate approach. By recognizing the subtle signs of discomfort and following the dos and don'ts of pain management, you can ensure your cat's well-being. 

Let Brewerton Hospital for Animals be your cat’s safe haven when it comes to all their veterinary needs! We always make sure our patients are treated with the best care because they deserve it. 

We administer vaccinations, routine exams, dental care procedures, as well as even geriatric care for our senior cats!