Think back to the last time you were in pain. You were probably pretty uncomfortable and wanted the pain to go away quickly. Unsurprisingly, pets feel pain too, and they don't like it any more than we do.
Over approximately the past decade, pain management has vastly improved for our pets. However, myths about pain in pets persist, creating barriers to effectively managing our pets' pain. Pets can suffer greatly when their pain is not adequately managed, decreasing their quality of life and leaving them in significant discomfort. Below are some common myths about pain in pets:
Myth #1: Pain in pets is different than pain in people.
Pain is perceived and processed very similarly in pets and people. Therefore, what is painful for you is also going to be painful for your pet.
Myth #2: Pets can tolerate pain better than people can.
Animals hide their pain or weakness to protect themselves from predators. Our pets don't need to worry about predators, but they will do their best to be stoic and mask any sign of pain. So, don't let your dog's wagging tail fool you—he could be in a lot of pain. Overall, pets don't have a higher tolerance for pain; they're just masters of hiding their pain.
Myth #3: Dog breeds have different pain tolerances.
The sturdy Rottweiler can withstand anything, while the little teacup Poodle can't handle any pain, right? Wrong! Breed has nothing do with pain tolerance. Making this assumption can lead to over- or undertreating pain, both of which can have negative consequences.
Myth #4: Pain is different in puppies and kittens versus adult pets.
Puppies and kittens feel pain, too. In fact, a failure to properly manage pain in puppies and kittens could increase the risk of chronic pain in adulthood.
Myth #5: Pain is good because it limits physical activity.
It was once believed that pain would keep a pet still after surgery and help the healing process. In reality, pain makes pets feel restless; they might even bite at the surgical site. Also, unmanaged pain after surgery can affect other parts of the body, such as the immune and digestive systems. Adequate pain management helps pets rest comfortably after surgery.
Myth #6: Pain relief isn't necessary after short or elective surgical procedures.
Pets experience pain after surgery, whether it's a major abdominal surgery or a quick cat neuter. Pain relief is always necessary for at least 24 hours after surgery, regardless of the procedure.
Myth #7: Pets need pain relief only if they show signs of pain.
Because our pets do such a great job at hiding their pain, waiting until they look painful only serves to prolong their discomfort. For example, a veterinarian who performed surgery on a cat should not wait until the cat's body language indicates pain (purring, squinting the eyes) to provide them with pain relief.
Myth #8: Arthritis in dogs doesn't require pain management.
As in people, arthritis in dogs is a chronic, painful condition. Not managing this pain can make arthritic dogs very uncomfortable and unable to be physically active. Treatment options, such as pain medication, physical therapy and massage therapy, can provide pain relief for dogs with arthritis.
Myth #9: Pain is inevitable in older pets.
Older pets are not inevitably resigned to a life of pain and discomfort. Pets in their golden years can still have a good quality of life when their pain is properly managed.