Most pet owners know their furry friends inside and out – their favorite toy, that exact spot behind the ear that makes their tail thump, or the sound they make when it’s dinner time. But when it comes to spotting pain, things can get tricky. Pets are naturally wired to hide weakness. It’s a leftover instinct from their wild ancestors, where showing pain could make them vulnerable to predators.
That’s why even the most observant pet parent can miss the early signs of discomfort. But if you know what to look for, you can catch these signals before things get serious.
Here are 7 common signs your pet might be in pain – and how to tell when it’s time to call the vet.
1. Changes in Behavior or Personality
If your usually cheerful pup suddenly becomes withdrawn or your affectionate cat starts hiding under the bed, something’s probably off. Behavioral changes are one of the biggest red flags that your pet isn’t feeling right.
A pet in pain may:
- Avoid people or other animals they normally enjoy being around
- Become unusually aggressive or snappy when touched
- Seem lethargic or disinterested in play
- Pace, whine, or seem restless without clear reason
Sometimes, these mood shifts can be subtle. Maybe your dog no longer greets you at the door, or your cat no longer curls up beside you at night. When you notice a sudden change in how they act or interact, it’s worth paying attention – it might be more than a mood swing. According to PetMD, sudden personality shifts often indicate illness or discomfort.
2. Loss of Appetite or Drinking Less Water
A sudden loss of appetite is one of the clearest signals something’s wrong. Most healthy pets love their meals, so if your dog skips breakfast or your cat turns up their nose at dinner, pain could be the reason.
Oral pain, dental disease, gastrointestinal issues, or even internal injuries can make eating uncomfortable. Similarly, if your pet starts drinking a lot less (or more) water, it can indicate dehydration, kidney problems, or other underlying health issues.
Monitor your pet’s eating and drinking habits closely – especially if the change lasts more than a day. Skipping one meal isn’t always alarming, but if it continues or if your pet refuses food altogether, it’s time to check in with the vet. For tips on spotting dehydration, visit the ASPCA’s pet hydration guide.
3. Limping, Stiffness, or Difficulty Moving
It might seem obvious, but mobility issues are among the most telling signs of pain – especially joint or muscle pain. Dogs might limp after an energetic play session, while cats may stop jumping up to their favorite windowsill.
Look out for:
- Trouble standing up or lying down
- Hesitation to use stairs or jump
- Limping or favoring one leg
- Stiffness after resting
- Reduced interest in walks or play
These symptoms often point to arthritis, injury, or hip issues – all of which can cause chronic discomfort if untreated. Even young pets can experience sprains or minor injuries that need rest or vet care.
4. Unusual Vocalizations
Pets communicate with us in their own ways – and sometimes that means being louder than usual.
If your normally quiet cat starts yowling, or your dog whimpers, growls, or howls without an obvious reason, it may be a sign they’re hurting. Pain-related sounds often come out during movement, touch, or when lying down.
But don’t assume a silent pet is pain-free either. Some animals go completely quiet when in pain, which is why observing their body language matters just as much as listening.
If your pet’s sounds feel “off” – different pitch, frequency, or context – trust your instincts and check in with your veterinarian.
5. Changes in Grooming or Appearance
If you’ve noticed your cat licking a specific spot more than usual, or your dog suddenly losing fur in patches, pain might be the culprit. Over-grooming or self-licking can be your pet’s way of soothing an aching area – similar to how humans rub a sore muscle.
Cats especially are experts at masking discomfort, but a change in grooming patterns is often one of the few hints they’ll give. Too much licking, biting, or chewing in one area might indicate skin irritation, arthritis, or even internal pain near that region.
Conversely, a pet that stops grooming altogether may be in too much pain to move comfortably or feeling unwell overall. Matted fur, greasy coats, or a neglected appearance are all signs that warrant attention.
6. Shallow Breathing or Panting
Breathing changes can signal everything from mild pain to serious illness. If your dog starts panting even when it’s not hot, or your cat’s breathing becomes shallow and rapid, it could mean they’re in distress.
Pain – particularly abdominal or chest pain – can make breathing uncomfortable. Your pet might also grunt, sigh excessively, or stretch awkwardly to relieve pressure on a painful area.
Other concerning signs include:
- Wheezing or labored breathing
- Flaring nostrils
- Breathing faster than normal, even at rest
If you notice any of these, contact your vet immediately. Breathing issues can quickly become emergencies, especially if paired with pale gums or lethargy.
7. Changes in Bathroom Habits
Bathroom changes are often overlooked, but they can reveal a lot about your pet’s health. Straining to urinate or defecate, crying in the litter box, or frequent accidents indoors could all indicate pain or discomfort.
Cats, in particular, can develop urinary blockages or infections that cause severe pain — and these can become life-threatening if untreated. Dogs may also have digestive issues or internal inflammation that make bathroom habits irregular.
If you notice your pet struggling to go, visiting the litter box repeatedly, or avoiding elimination altogether, it’s time for a vet visit right away.
When to Call the Vet
Not every sign of pain is an emergency, but if your pet’s behavior changes suddenly or they seem distressed for more than a day, it’s best to consult your vet.
Call your vet immediately if you notice:
- Sudden inability to walk or stand
- Heavy panting or difficulty breathing
- Swollen or hard abdomen
- Uncontrolled shaking or trembling
- Refusal to eat or drink for 24+ hours
- Crying out in pain or hiding constantly
Your vet may recommend a physical exam, X-rays, or bloodwork to identify the source of pain. Sometimes, even small changes in posture, activity, or expression can help pinpoint the problem early.
How to Comfort a Pet in Pain (Before the Vet Visit)
While you wait for your appointment, you can do a few things to make your pet more comfortable:
- Keep them calm and quiet: Avoid rough play or long walks.
- Provide a soft resting spot: A warm, padded area helps relieve joint or muscle tension.
- Avoid self-medicating: Never give human painkillers like ibuprofen or Tylenol to pets — they can be toxic.
- Monitor their symptoms: Note any changes in appetite, movement, or energy to share with your vet.
Sometimes, even gentle reassurance and a calm environment can help your pet relax until professional help arrives.
Trust Your Instincts – You Know Your Pet Best
At the end of the day, no one knows your pet like you do. You’re the first to notice when something feels “off.” If you have that gut feeling that your pet isn’t acting right, trust it.
Pain in animals can be sneaky – but it’s never normal. Early detection can prevent small problems from becoming major health issues, and your quick response could save your pet from prolonged suffering.
Keeping an eye out for these subtle clues, maintaining regular vet checkups, and acting promptly when something seems wrong can make all the difference in your pet’s comfort and quality of life.
Your pet might not be able to tell you they’re hurting – but with a little attention and care, you’ll always know when something’s not right.
