If you’ve ever thought your cat was tough, you’re right. Cats instinctively disguise pain because they are biologically hardwired to not show weakness. After all, in the wild, you don’t want to be viewed as an easy target by predators.
Unfortunately, there’s no way to explain to your beloved cat how unnecessary (and potentially dangerous) this stoicism is in a home environment. Therefore, it’s our job to play detective and look for signs that our pets might be suffering in silence.
Some indicators of pain, such as limping, are simple to spot. But here’s a list of the less obvious ways that your cat may react to something that hurts.
Decrease in Sociability Take note if your normally social cat withdraws from the rest of the household. Cats in discomfort might stop rubbing against your legs for attention, reject being cuddled or even bite when you reach out to pet them or pick them up.
Inability to Relax A healthy cat regularly and comfortably curls up for a nap. A cat who’s struggling with pain may be unable to do so. You may notice restlessness, general agitation, shifting of weight or an unusual posture, such as hunching up or a lowered head.
Decline in Grooming When a normally meticulous cat stops putting in the effort to self-groom, a physical problem is usually to blame. Cats may be unable to reach the usual spots without pain or even muster up the energy required to try. This can be due to osteoarthritis or other ailments, and is a sign that your cat needs veterinary attention.
Decrease in Activity As cats age, some decrease in activity is to be expected. But this can also be one of the earlier signs of arthritis, especially when coupled with a reluctance to jump (onto a favorite windowsill, for example). Other conditions, such as heart disease, can cause similar symptoms, so talk to your veterinarian if you notice any signs of distress.
Loss of Appetite While pain isn’t always the reason behind a loss of appetite, it’s one that must be ruled out. Tooth pain, for example, can make cats turn away from their food bowls.
Eliminating Outside the Litter Box As frustrating as this problem can be, try not to take it personally when your pet misses the litter box. While it can be a cat behavior issue—such as when a new pet enters the home and upsets the normal routine—litter box problems are very often due to physical discomfort. There’s a good chance that your cat is suffering from an uncomfortable urinary tract disorder or other illness and needs veterinary attention.
Change in Personality It’s not easy to hide pain, especially over a long period of time. Discomfort and the stress that results may alter your cat’s personality, introducing aggressive behaviors like hissing or biting. Cats may also vocalize excessively. Any seemingly random change in temperament should be brought to your veterinarian’s attention.
Stiffness After Rest Difficulty rising and stiffness after rest are commonly seen in cats who are suffering from the pain of osteoarthritis. Your veterinarian can recommend appropriate treatment, which may include weight loss, pain relieving medications, physical therapy, acupuncture and nutritional supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin and fish oil.
Sometimes it’s easy to read cat body language and determine that pet cat needs help. But when the signs of pain are more subtle, they can be tougher to recognize. By remaining alert to any changes in your cat’s personality, preferences and habits, you’ll be in the ideal position to know when to intervene.