Cats are masters of hiding pain. It’s a survival instinct that makes it difficult for even the most attentive pet owners to recognize when something’s wrong. But just because your cat isn’t crying or limping doesn’t mean they’re not suffering silently.
Knowing the subtle signs of feline pain can make all the difference in getting them the support and comfort they need, especially as they age or deal with chronic illness.
Here are 10 signs your cat may be in pain, and what you can do to help:
1. Change in Grooming Habits
Cats are naturally fastidious groomers. If your cat stops grooming or begins overgrooming in one area, it could signal discomfort or pain, especially from arthritis or skin conditions.
2. Hiding More Than Usual
A sudden desire to stay under beds, behind furniture, or in dark corners could be a red flag. Cats in pain often retreat from interaction to rest or avoid touch.
3. Loss of Appetite
Pain can make it difficult or unpleasant for cats to eat. If your cat is turning away from food, even favorite treats, it’s time for a vet visit.
4. Unusual Aggression or Irritability
A previously gentle cat that suddenly hisses, growls, or swats when touched may be trying to say, “I hurt.” Don’t take it personally, this behavior is often driven by pain.
5. Changes in Mobility
Jumping less, hesitating to climb stairs, or avoiding their usual perches could point to joint or muscle pain. These signs are common in older cats but shouldn’t be ignored.
6. Vocalizing More (or Less)
Some cats become more vocal when in pain, while others go quiet. If your cat is meowing, yowling, or groaning in ways that are out of character, it may be time for an exam.
7. Litter Box Changes
Straining to urinate, eliminating outside the box, or avoiding the box altogether can all indicate pain, especially from urinary tract infections, constipation, or arthritis.
8. Facial Expression or Body Posture
Squinting, drooping ears, a tucked-in posture, or stiff movements are subtle but telling signs your cat isn’t feeling well.
9. Sleeping Patterns Shift
Cats naturally sleep a lot, but excessive lethargy or unusual restlessness could suggest discomfort. Track any changes to their routines.
10. Weight Loss or Muscle Wasting
Chronic pain, especially from diseases like kidney failure or cancer, can lead to weight loss or a sunken, bony appearance over time.
What You Can Do
If you’ve noticed one or more of these signs, don’t wait. Schedule a checkup with your vet. Pain in cats is often treatable, and early intervention can make a big difference in their quality of life.
But sometimes the pain doesn’t go away. You try medications, treatments, everything the vet recommends, and your cat is still struggling. That’s when the thoughts you don’t want to have start to creep in: “Are they suffering more than they’re living? Am I keeping them here for me or for them?”
If you’ve found yourself researching when to euthanize a cat, you’re not alone. It’s one of the hardest decisions any pet owner has to face. There’s a guide that talks about this exact situation, and many cat owners have found it incredibly helpful during such an emotional time.
The article was created by Compassionate Care, which is the best pet euthanasia and pet cremation company in Portland, Oregon. With years of experience and plenty of five-star reviews, they’ve become a reliable source for pet owners looking for guidance on managing pain and making informed end-of-life decisions.
Pain in cats isn’t always obvious, but it’s always important. By learning to spot the subtle signs, you can make sure your cat gets the care they need when they need it most.
