September is Animal Pain Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect reminder to pay close attention to your pet’s comfort and well-being. Pets are experts at hiding pain, which means subtle changes in behavior are often the first clues something may be wrong. Early detection can make a big difference in helping your pet live a healthier, happier life.
Common Signs Your Pet May Be in Pain
Watch for these changes, which could indicate your pet is uncomfortable:
- Limping or difficulty moving
- Decreased appetite or changes in drinking habits
- Excessive licking, chewing, or grooming one area
- Increased irritability or withdrawal
- Restlessness or changes in sleep patterns
- Unusual vocalizing such as whining, growling, or meowing
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your pet evaluated by a veterinarian.
Wondering what pain might look like in your own pet? These real examples from our patients show how hidden discomfort can surface in surprising ways.
The Cat Who Stopped Jumping
Cats are experts at masking discomfort. One of our patients, Luna, suddenly stopped jumping onto her favorite windowsill. Her family thought she was just slowing down with age. During her check-up, we discovered she had arthritis in her hips. Every jump felt like landing on sharp rocks. With treatment, Luna was soon back in her sunny spot, purring contentedly.
If your cat isn’t jumping, climbing, or exploring like they used to, it may be more than age—it may be pain.
The Dog Who Didn’t Want to Play
Dogs may also show pain through changes in play. Max, a young Labrador, suddenly lost interest in fetch. His family thought he was being lazy, but an exam revealed a cracked tooth. Every time he picked up a ball, it felt like biting into broken glass. After dental treatment, Max was pain-free and back to chasing tennis balls with a big smile.
If your dog has lost interest in toys or games, don’t assume it’s just personality—sometimes, pain is the real reason.
The Dog Who Hid Under the Bed
Withdrawal and hiding can also be signs of pain. Bella, a dachshund, started retreating under the bed more and more. Her family thought she just wanted alone time. But Bella was living with chronic back pain, and hiding was her way of saying, “I can’t handle this.” With the right treatment plan, Bella returned to her family’s side, tail wagging once again.
If your pet is hiding, avoiding interaction, or seems unusually quiet, it may be time for a pain assessment.
How Olive Tree Animal Hospital Can Help
Because pets often mask their pain, regular checkups are one of the best ways to catch health problems early. At Olive Tree Animal Hospital, we use:
- Comprehensive physical exams to detect subtle signs of discomfort
- Diagnostic testing (such as X-rays or lab work) to uncover underlying causes of pain
- Yearly wellness exams and blood panels to monitor your pet’s overall health and identify issues before they become more serious
By combining careful observation with modern diagnostics, our team can create a treatment plan tailored to your pet’s unique needs.
Take the Next Step
Don’t wait until your pet’s pain becomes severe. Schedule a wellness exam or consultation today to ensure your furry family member is as comfortable and healthy as possible.