Pain is probably one of the most unrecognized (by owners) and therefore, under treated illnesses in pets. Pain can be extremely debilitating and detrimental to a pet’s quality of life. Animals can be stoic, even when in pain showing no typical or overt clinical signs. Owners will often mis-read behaviors their pets are exhibiting. Not understanding that these behaviors are in direct response to the pain they are experiencing.
Pet Pain Can Be Hard to Spot
A pet that “bunny hops” up a flight of stairs may seem cute, but may actually be a sign of pain due to osteoarthritis in the back or hips, hip dysplasia, or painful knees. An otherwise upright ear held down and/or sideways could be indicative of a painful ear infection and a cat chronically going to litter box could be a painful, life-threatening condition called FUS (a blocked cat). Of course, if your pet has had a surgical procedure or a traumatic injury (e.g. hit by a car) there is a presumption of pain. We will address this issue during treatment. However, there are many more subtle signs that might fly completely “under the radar.”
Here are some of those common signs:
- Decrease or total lack of appetite
- Hiding (cats especially)
- Licking over a joint
- Reluctance to sit, stand or walk
- Excessive drooling
- Squinting eyes
- Posture changes
- bearing more weight on one leg or foot than the other
- a forward leaning stance that displaces weight to both front legs
- Arched back
- Reluctant to lower or raise neck
Don’t Let Them Suffer
Whether it’s post-surgical or a toothache, your veterinarian does not want your pets to hurt! If you have any suspicion that your dog or cat displaying one of the above signs, for any reason, don’t hesitate to reach out to us so relief be can provided. Veterinarians have many modalities at their disposal to relieve your pet’s pain. From oral medication to acupuncture to laser therapy, there is no reason for your pet to suffer needlessly.