When Pets Hurt: Subtle Signs of Pain You Shouldn’t Ignore

You know your pet’s normal behavior and routines- so when they start refusing a walk they used to love or seem less excited about mealtime, you might worry something is wrong. Does a sudden change in behavior mean they are in pain? It can be difficult to know because pets are masters at hiding discomfort. They rarely cry out or limp conspicuously. Instead, the signs of pain are often quiet changes- like moving less or acting withdrawn. These subtle shifts are easy to overlook but can be the only clue to issues like arthritis or dental disease. Understanding these quiet signals is the first step in getting your pet the relief they need before their suffering becomes chronic.

At Mission Veterinary Clinic, we’ve been providing compassionate emergency and urgent care for more than 20 years. Our team is trained to identify even the subtlest signs of pain using advanced diagnostics, thorough services, and individualized treatment plans. When care can’t wait, we’re here- day or night- to restore your pet’s comfort and peace of mind.

Recognizing Pain in Pets

It’s natural to assume pain is obvious, but in reality, pets instinctively hide discomfort as a survival trait. A dog with joint stiffness or a cat with dental pain may seem only slightly “off.” You might notice subtle changes like hesitation before jumping, eating more slowly, or sleeping in unusual places.

Routine diagnostic exams help detect these early signs before they escalate into serious health problems. Our veterinarians use both physical and behavioral assessments to catch pain-related changes that may not be visible at home. If you’re unsure whether your pet’s behavior change is normal aging or something more, call our team for guidance or contact us to schedule an evaluation.

Understanding Subtle Pain Behaviors

Pain can be physical or emotional- and it often shows up in the smallest ways. A pet may hide because movement hurts, or lash out when touched near a sore spot. Over time, untreated pain can impact their mood, appetite, and ability to rest comfortably. Some conditions develop gradually, such as arthritis or dental infections, while others, like injuries or inflammation, appear suddenly.

The best way to stay ahead of these pain conditions is to schedule regular checkups and report any behavioral changes as soon as you notice them. The earlier pain is identified, the easier it is to manage before it becomes chronic.

Signs Your Pet May Be in Pain

Dogs and cats communicate through behavior, so knowing what to watch for is essential. Common warning signs include:

  • Reluctance to jump, climb, or play
  • Increased sleep or withdrawal from family
  • Avoiding touch or hiding
  • Panting, pacing, or restlessness
  • Appetite loss or excessive grooming

Persistent lethargy in dogs or lethargy in cats can signal discomfort or illness. If your pet’s behavior changes suddenly or seems off for more than a few days, it’s time for a veterinary visit. Early diagnosis often means faster relief and fewer complications.

Common Medical Causes of Pain

Pain can originate from a wide range of health issues. Some are acute, while others develop over time. Common causes include:

  • Joint disease and osteoarthritis: These conditions often develop gradually in older pets and lead to stiffness, difficulty rising, or hesitance with stairs. Many pets compensate for months before showing obvious limping, which is why early evaluation is so important.
  • Cruciate ligament injury: Damage to the knee ligament usually causes a sudden non-weight-bearing limp and visible instability in the joint. Pets may sit awkwardly or avoid putting full pressure on the injured leg.
  • Dental fractures: Broken teeth are not always visible from the outside but can lead to pawing at the mouth, drooling, or reluctance to chew. Left untreated, these fractures often progress to painful infections.
  • Otitis externa: Ear canal inflammation is intensely uncomfortable and typically triggers head shaking, scratching, or sensitivity when the ears are touched. Chronic cases can lead to thickened tissue and worsening pain.
  • Corneal ulcers: These ulcers cause significant eye discomfort, squinting, and increased tearing, and pets may rub their face to seek relief. Without prompt treatment, ulcers can deepen and threaten vision.
  • Anal gland problems: Full or infected anal glands often lead to scooting, licking, or sudden sensitivity near the tail. Some pets may yelp or avoid sitting due to pressure and discomfort.
  • Pancreatitis: This inflammatory condition causes abdominal pain, vomiting, decreased appetite, and restlessness. Many pets adopt a hunched posture or refuse food because the discomfort intensifies after eating.
  • Post-operative discomfort: After surgery, pets may experience soreness, reduced mobility, or hesitation with normal activities. Careful monitoring and appropriate pain control help ensure healing progresses safely and comfortably.

At Mission Veterinary Clinic, our diagnostic services and pain scoring assessments help identify these issues quickly so treatment can begin right away.

Dog-Specific Pain Signals

Dogs often reveal pain through posture and facial expression. You might see stiffness, a hunched back, reluctance to climb stairs, or a “pain face” with furrowed brows and pinned ears. Subtle whining or restlessness can also point to discomfort.

Tracking movement and energy changes is vital, especially for pets with arthritis or chronic joint disease. A detailed chronic pain assessment by your veterinarian can help fine-tune medication and therapy for better mobility.

Cat-Specific Pain Signals

Cats are particularly skilled at concealing pain. They may groom less, avoid jumping, or choose lower resting spots. You might also see litter box avoidance if movement causes discomfort.

The Feline Grimace Scale helps veterinarians measure feline pain by observing subtle changes in ear position, whisker tension, and eye shape. During gentle, low-stress exams, our team uses this tool to ensure cats receive the comfort and care they need.

Veterinary Pain Management Options

Once the source of pain is identified, treatment can begin immediately. Our veterinarians may prescribe pain medications tailored to your pet’s age, weight, and medical condition. For chronic arthritis, we offer monoclonal antibody therapies like Librela for dogs and Solensia for cats, which target the specific proteins that cause joint pain.

We closely monitor your pet’s progress with follow-up exams and bloodwork, ensuring both comfort and safety.

Integrative and Supportive Therapies

Beyond medication, a multimodal approach can make a big difference in your pet’s recovery. Options such as acupuncture, laser therapy, and veterinary rehabilitation help reduce inflammation, stimulate healing, and improve mobility.

Our veterinarians may recommend these therapies alongside traditional treatments to maximize comfort, especially for older pets or those with chronic pain.

Making Your Home Comfortable for a Pet in Pain

A few simple changes at home can ease daily life for pets dealing with pain. Creating an arthritis-friendly home with non-slip rugs, ramps, or low-sided litter boxes prevents strain on joints. For dogs, supportive bedding and assistive devices like slings or harnesses can help them move comfortably and safely.

Ask our team during your next visit for personalized recommendations based on your pet’s condition and mobility level.

Recognizing Pain Emergencies

Certain signs of pain require immediate care. Bring your pet in or call us right away if you notice:

  • Sudden inability to stand or walk
  • Persistent crying or shaking
  • Refusal to eat or drink for more than 24 hours
  • Collapse or trauma
  • Swollen limbs, severe limping, or visible wounds

Because we operate on a triage-based walk-in system, pets with life-threatening pain or injury are prioritized for rapid, expert care. Visit our conditions treated page to learn more about the emergencies we handle daily.

Staying Proactive with Your Veterinary Team

Managing pain is a partnership between you and your veterinary team. Regular wellness exams, diagnostic imaging, and follow-ups allow for early adjustments as pets age or heal. Keep notes on your pet’s behavior and mobility, and share them during visits to guide treatment planning.

Our veterinarians combine advanced medical insight with compassionate care to create personalized strategies that enhance your pet’s comfort and quality of life.

Taking the First Step Toward Comfort

Pain doesn’t have to be a part of your pet’s daily life. With proper evaluation and a tailored plan, most pets can enjoy relief, mobility, and renewed happiness.

If you suspect your dog or cat is in pain, don’t wait- contact our team or visit Mission Veterinary Clinic for prompt evaluation. Whether it’s a same-day emergency or ongoing condition, our compassionate experts are here to help your pet feel better, move easier, and live a more comfortable life.