12 Signs Your Cat May Be in Pain and How to Spot Them

Sara Roman

Sharing is caring!

Cats are known for being masters of hiding discomfort, often masking their pain until it becomes severe. As a pet owner, it’s important to recognize the subtle signs that may indicate your cat is in pain so you can take the necessary steps to help them feel better. Here are 12 signs that your cat might be experiencing pain and what to look out for:

1. Changes in Behavior

A sudden shift in your cat’s behavior can be one of the first signs that something isn’t right. If your typically friendly cat becomes more withdrawn, aggressive, or irritable, it could be a response to pain. Cats in pain may also seek isolation, avoiding interaction or hiding more than usual.

2. Decreased Appetite

Pain can cause a cat to lose interest in food. If your cat suddenly stops eating or has trouble chewing, it could be due to dental pain, abdominal discomfort, or other underlying conditions. A decreased appetite may also be a sign of nausea, which often accompanies pain.

3. Excessive Grooming or Licking

While cats are fastidious groomers, they may lick or chew at specific areas of their body when in pain. Over-grooming in one spot can indicate localized pain, such as arthritis or an injury. Alternatively, if your cat is grooming less than usual, it might be due to discomfort or a lack of energy.

4. Limping or Difficulty Moving

Pain in the joints, muscles, or bones can make movement difficult for your cat. If your cat is limping, reluctant to jump, or has trouble climbing stairs, it could be a sign of injury or arthritis. Be alert to subtle changes in their ability to move around comfortably.

5. Vocalizing More Than Usual

Cats in pain often vocalize to communicate their discomfort. It could indicate pain if your cat starts meowing, yowling, or growling more than normal, especially when moving or being touched. Please pay attention to the tone and frequency of their vocalizations as well.

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

6. Changes in Posture

A cat in pain may adjust its posture to avoid discomfort. For example, they might arch their back, hunch over, or keep their body stiff when moving. A cat with abdominal pain might adopt a “praying position,” with their head and chest on the ground and their rear end raised.

7. Changes in Litter Box Habits

Pain, especially in the lower back or abdomen, can cause your cat trouble using the litter box. They may not use the litter box at all or urinate or defecate outside of it. They may also exhibit signs of distress or vocalize while trying to relieve themselves.

8. Breathing Changes

Shallow, rapid, or labored breathing can indicate pain, particularly if it’s associated with injury or respiratory distress. If you notice your cat breathing differently or showing signs of shortness of breath, it could indicate significant discomfort and require immediate veterinary attention.

9. Hiding More Than Usual

Cats instinctively hide when they are in pain, as it makes them feel safer and less vulnerable. If your cat, who usually enjoys interaction, starts retreating to hidden spots or becomes more reclusive, monitoring their health more closely is important.

10. Sensitivity to Touch

If your cat becomes unusually sensitive to touching or handling, it could be a sign of pain. They might flinch, hiss, or swat when touched in specific body areas. This reaction may indicate an injury, sore spot, or internal discomfort that makes them more sensitive than usual.

kitten with toys

11. Increased Aggression

Pain can make your cat feel defensive, leading to increased aggression. A normally calm and gentle cat might become more irritable or aggressive, swatting or biting when approached. If this behavior is new, it may be a sign that they’re trying to protect themselves from pain.

12. Altered Sleep Patterns

Cats tend to sleep a lot, especially as they age, but if you notice changes in their sleeping patterns, such as restlessness, difficulty settling down, or constant waking up during the night, it could be a sign that they are experiencing discomfort.

If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it’s important to seek veterinary attention promptly. Early detection and treatment can help alleviate their pain and improve their quality of life. Cats may be good at hiding pain, but with careful observation and care, you can ensure your feline companion stays happy and healthy.

Leave a Comment