![]() ![]() ![]() Pain can be a powerful appetite and thirst suppressant – both in humans and in animals! If your cat seems to have lost interest in eating or drinking, it could be a sign that they are experiencing pain. Whatever the case may be, a cat who starts eliminating outside of the litter box is trying to tell you that something is wrong. If your cat is experiencing pain during urination, for example, they may associate the discomfort with the litter box and stop using it. Other painful medical issues can affect litter box usage, too. ![]() Watching for changes in stool consistency is essential too. They may hold it for several days and then really have trouble going. These cats often become constipated since having a bowel movement is uncomfortable for them. Likewise, this type of pain can make getting into and maintaining a squatting position nearly impossible. If your cat is experiencing pain in their knees, hips, elbows, or spine, entering and exiting the box can be painful. While there are several reasons a cat may start eliminating outside of the litter box, pain is one of the most common. Eliminating Outside of the Litter BoxĬats do not stop using their litter boxes for no apparent reason. If you notice your cat laying in lower places, this can be a warning sign too. Cats will hardly ever sleep on the floor they prefer elevated resting spots. Cats in pain may also seek out warmer places to rest, such as a sunny spot or heating pad. Cats who are in pain may sleep more or less than usual, too. They might struggle to find a comfortable position in which to rest, or you may find them sleeping in strange places. Pain may also cause changes in your cat’s sleep patterns. They can also experience a wide range of other health problems that cause pain or discomfort during any stage of their life. Just like people, cats can suffer from degenerative conditions like arthritis as they get older. When your cat is reluctant to run, jump, traverse stairs, participate in playtime, or stand up from a lying position, they are likely in pain. If these changes happen drastically, though, or are seriously impacting your cat’s life, it could be more than advanced age slowing your feline friend down. It is natural for your pet’s energy level to gradually decrease as they get into the senior cat stages. If your cat is spending more time grooming a specific part of their body – especially if they are doing so to the point of causing baldness or wounds – they may be trying to soothe a painful area. Increased grooming could be a sign of pain, too. If it appears unusually unkempt or greasy, trouble could be brewing. If you don’t see your cat grooming regularly, keep an eye on their coat. Cats have meticulous cleaning habits, and they generally only change if something is wrong. If your fastidious feline stops grooming or you notice that they are grooming less of their body than usual, this could also be a sign of discomfort or pain. Unexplained aggression is a serious behavioral change that indicates a need for a vet appointment. Pain can make even the friendliest cats scratch or bite, especially when touched in a painful area or moved in a way that hurts. They may hiss or growl when you or other members of your household come near. If your cat stops sleeping with you at night, following you to the kitchen, or coming out to greet you when you get home from work, they could be in pain.Ĭats who are in pain often exhibit uncharacteristic aggression, too. Cats form strong bonds with their owners, and many enjoy being present and engaged in their day-to-day lives. ![]() If your usually cuddly companion suddenly starts spending all their time hiding under the bed, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong. Though often overlooked, a change in your cat’s behavior is often an early indicator of pain or illness. We’ve rounded up some of the most common symptoms of pain in cats and shared them below but, remember, any sudden changes in your cat’s habits and routines warrant a trip to see your veterinarian. And in doing so, you can better understand your cat’s needs. The good news is that you, too, can learn to recognize signs of pain in cats. Thankfully, we have access to advanced diagnostic equipment that provides us with a clear picture of precisely what is going on with your pet. As veterinarians, we have become adept at recognizing some of the more subtle signs of pain in cats, but we also make sure to remind cat owners that they know their pets best. While they typically show outward signs when experiencing acute, intense pain, it’s not nearly as easy to detect when a cat suffers from long-term pain or discomfort. Unfortunately, felines are experts when it comes to hiding their discomfort. Recognizing the early signs of pain in your cat is an essential step in ensuring their long-term health and happiness. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |