Pets are experts at hiding pain – many diseases, such as arthritis, go undiagnosed. Dogs tend to lick excessively at areas causing them pain, such as their joints or at hot spots on their paws.
If your pet has suddenly stopped or limited their activity level – this can be a clue on how they are feeling.
Signs for your feline:
- Loud meowing
- Hiding
- Aggression
- Panting or rapid breathing
- Increased heart rate
- Changes to their eyes
- Not eating or drinking
- Not grooming themselves
Signs for your canine:
- Aggressive behaviour
- Loss of appetite
- Vocalizing
- Excessive grooming of particular areas
- Panting, or altered breathing
- Stiffness
- Pacing back and forth repeatedly – restless
- Sleeping less
- Swelling of legs, paws, face
- Shaking or trembling
- Increased heart rate
If you notice some of these changes, talk to your veterinarian about how they can help diagnose the source of the pain and solutions to managing your pet’s pain. Be your pet’s advocate.
Written by Caroline Hupe