Signs Your Cat Is in Pain

Cats evolved as both predator and prey, and showing weakness is dangerous. A cat in significant pain often looks like a cat that has simply become quiet.

Behavioural signs

Hiding, reduced grooming leading to a scruffy coat, over-grooming one spot, reluctance to jump onto surfaces it used to use, litter box avoidance, and irritability when touched.

Facial signs

Narrowed eyes, ears rotated slightly outward, a tense muzzle. Once you know the pattern it is quite readable.

Arthritis is very common and rarely diagnosed

Most cats over twelve have arthritic changes. Owners describe it as 'slowing down'. Ramps, lower-sided litter trays and pain management change quality of life dramatically.

Never self-medicate

Human painkillers, paracetamol and ibuprofen especially, are lethal to cats even in small doses.