My cat, Whiskers, seems a little off lately. He’s usually a playful cat, always chasing after his toys and greeting me at the door. But the past few days he’s been quieter, sleeping more, and hasn’t been as interested in playing. He’s also eating a little less, although he is still eating. I’ve tried petting him in his usual spots, but he sometimes flinches slightly, which he never used to do. I’m worried he might be in pain. I don’t see any obvious injuries. So, given these changes in his behavior, what are the more subtle signs of pain in cats that I should be looking for? How can I definitively tell if Whiskers is experiencing pain, and what steps should I take next if I suspect he is?

Answer

Detecting pain in cats can be challenging as they often mask their discomfort. Subtle changes in behavior and appearance are key indicators. Here’s a breakdown of signs to watch for:

Changes in Behavior:

• Hiding: A cat that is suddenly hiding more than usual, especially in unusual or secluded spots, might be in pain.
• Decreased Activity: Lethargy, reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or play could indicate pain.
• Changes in Grooming Habits: A cat might neglect grooming altogether, resulting in a matted or unkempt coat. Conversely, they might over-groom a specific area, potentially indicating localized pain.
• Changes in Appetite: Reduced food intake or refusal to eat, or changes in drinking habits can be a sign.
• Changes in Litter Box Habits: Accidents outside the litter box, straining to urinate or defecate, or changes in the frequency of urination or defecation are all potential indicators. This may include changes in the type of litter preferred (e.g., preferring soft surfaces).
• Changes in Social Interaction: A typically affectionate cat might become withdrawn or irritable. Conversely, a normally independent cat might become clingy.
• Aggression: A cat in pain might become more easily agitated and may hiss, swat, or bite when touched or approached.
• Restlessness/Pacing: An inability to settle down and constant shifting positions might signal pain.
• Altered Sleep Patterns: Sleeping more than usual or difficulty finding a comfortable sleeping position.

Changes in Posture and Movement:

• Limping: Favoring one leg or exhibiting an altered gait.
• Stiffness: Difficulty getting up or down, or moving stiffly.
• Arched Back or Hunched Posture: This can indicate abdominal or back pain.
• Head Pressing: Compulsively pressing the head against a wall or other object is a sign of neurological pain.
• Reluctance to be Picked Up or Touched: Especially around specific areas of the body.
• Guarding: Protecting a specific body part from being touched.
• Abnormal Gait: Changes in how the cat walks, such as a swaying motion or shortened steps.

Changes in Vocalization:

• Excessive Meowing: Meowing more than usual, especially if it seems distressed.
• Hissing or Growling: Even without direct interaction, hissing or growling can indicate pain.
• Purring: While often associated with contentment, cats sometimes purr when in pain as a self-soothing mechanism. Note the context and other signs.
• Yowling: A drawn-out, mournful cry, often associated with significant pain.

Changes in Facial Expression:

• Squinting: Partially closing the eyes or keeping them tightly shut.
• Dilated Pupils: Enlarged pupils, even in bright light.
• Third Eyelid Protrusion: The third eyelid (nictitating membrane) might be partially visible.
• Tension in the Face: Taut muscles around the mouth, nose, or eyes.
• Changes in Ear Position: Ears held flattened against the head.
• Whiskers Pulled Back: Whiskers held close to the face.

Physiological Changes:

• Increased Heart Rate: A faster than normal heartbeat.
• Increased Respiratory Rate: Rapid or shallow breathing.
• Panting: While rare in cats, panting can indicate pain or distress (especially if not due to heat).
• Loss of Appetite and/or weight loss.
• Fever: An elevated body temperature. (Normal rectal temperature for cats is 100.5-102.5°F or 38.1-39.2°C).
• Shivering: Trembling or shaking, even when not cold.

Specific Pain Locations and Associated Signs:

• Dental Pain: Drooling, difficulty eating hard food, pawing at the mouth, bad breath.
• Abdominal Pain: Hunched posture, reluctance to be touched on the abdomen, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite.
• Arthritis: Stiffness, limping, reluctance to jump or climb, decreased grooming.
• Urinary Tract Pain: Straining to urinate, frequent attempts to urinate, blood in the urine, urinating outside the litter box.
• Eye Pain: Squinting, excessive tearing, rubbing the eye, sensitivity to light.
• Ear Pain: Head shaking, scratching at the ear, discharge from the ear.

What to Do If You Suspect Your Cat Is In Pain:

1. Consult a Veterinarian: This is the most important step. Do not attempt to diagnose or treat your cat’s pain yourself. Many human pain medications are toxic to cats. A vet can properly assess the situation, determine the cause of the pain, and prescribe appropriate treatment.
2. Provide a Comfortable Environment: Make sure your cat has a quiet, comfortable place to rest, with easy access to food, water, and the litter box.
3. Observe Carefully: Pay close attention to your cat’s behavior and any specific signs of pain. This information will be helpful for your veterinarian.
4. Handle with Care: Be gentle when handling your cat, especially if you suspect a particular area is painful.

It’s crucial to note that these signs can also indicate other medical conditions, so it’s essential to seek professional veterinary advice for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Early detection and treatment of pain can significantly improve your cat’s quality of life.