How to tell if your pet is in pain
Pets can’t tell us when something’s wrong - but they do show us. Here’s how to spot the subtle signs of pain before it becomes serious.
Unlike humans, animals instinctively hide discomfort, making the signs easy to miss until the problem worsens. From small shifts in behaviour to changes in mood or movement, learning to read these subtle cues is key to protecting your pet’s well-being and ensuring they get the care they need, when they need it most. Here are some of the signs to look out for:
Dogs and cats
A normally affectionate pet may become irritable or withdraw from interaction.
- Altered mobility: Limping, difficulty rising, or reluctance to climb stairs.
- Unusual vocalisation: Whimpering, growling, or excessive meowing.
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits: Loss of appetite or increased sleep.
Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and other small mammals
- Decreased appetite: Refusing favourite treats or not eating at all.
- Altered grooming: Excessive grooming of a particular area or neglecting grooming entirely.
- Changes in posture: Hunched posture or reluctance to move.
Birds
- Feather plucking: Excessive preening or pulling out feathers.
- Changes in vocalisation: Unusual quietness or increased squawking.
- Altered perching behaviour: Staying on lower perches or the bottom of the cage.
When to visit your vet
If you notice any of the previously mentioned signs persisting for more than a day, it’s time to consult your veterinarian. Seek immediate veterinary care if your pet shows:
- Difficulty breathing
- Signs of severe pain (shaking, panting, agitation)
- Seizures or loss of consciousness
- Significant wounds or injuries
- Sudden mobility issues
- Vision impairment or sudden blindness
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
Find out more by visiting Anima Strath.
For more on pets and animal care ,visit Get It Magazine.
