While some injuries are obvious, recognizing the signs of hidden pain can be difficult. In the wild, animals will mask their pain so as to not appear weak. Unfortunately for us, our pets instinctively do the same. Understanding how to recognize the signs of pain in pets can help you seek treatment before the problem gets any worse. Here’s how to tell if your pet is unwell, so you can bring them to the vet.
Three Telltale Signs Your Pet Is in Pain
1: Changes in Mobility
Changes in the way your pet moves can be indicative of pain or injury.
- Difficulty or rapid breathing, especially when they are resting
- Limping or stiffness in their extremities
- Lethargy
- Inability or hesitation to rise from the floor, climb stairs, or jump
- Hunched in on themselves, especially when standing
- Sitting in odd positions
2: Changes in Behavior
If your pet is acting differently than they typically do, it could be related to pain.
- A loss of appetite or a refusal to eat, especially if they’re ignoring their treats
- Whining or vocalizing that is not typical
- Aggression or irritability, such as growling or biting, especially if you are touching certain spots on their body
- Restlessness, pacing, or constantly resituating themselves
- Changes in their level of need for contact, either hiding and avoiding you, or constantly following you around
3: Incontinence or Trouble Pooping
An inability to make it to the back yard or the litterbox in time is often a sign that there is something wrong. Incontinence can be a sign of many illnesses, such as urinary tract infections, bladder stones, or even spinal cord damage. Signs of difficulty with pooping, like straining, whimpering, butt-dragging, or blood in the stool are also urgent concerns.
How Do You Know If You Need a Veterinarian?
Pain, especially chronic pain, can make your pet’s life very difficult. Getting it checked out and treated will help your pet feel better so they can enjoy their favorite treats and games again. Some signs of pain should be treated right away, while others could wait for the next available appointment.
See your veterinarian right away if:
- Your pet is having difficulty breathing
- You think there could be a broken bone
- Your pet was in an accident or a fight
Otherwise, call your veterinarian for their next available appointment. If they think the problem is urgent, they might ask you to come in the same day.
Veterinary Care That Isn’t a Pain
Prolonged pain can take an immense toll on your pet’s ability to fight illnesses and enjoy life. But a visit with your veterinarian will help reveal the reason for your pet’s pain so you can take the next steps toward treatment. From diagnosis to treatment to follow-up care, East Valley Animal Hospital in Gilbert,is here for you.
We care about your pet’s future. If you are worried about your pet, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’ll do all we can to relieve their pain and help them feel their best.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (11/21/25). Photo by Robert Larsson on Unsplash.