cannot simply tell us what hurts. It is our responsibility as pet owners to be aware of our animals’ health, recognize abnormal behaviors, and seek help when we notice something is wrong. This is not as straightforward as it sounds. Many animals, especially cats, are exceptionally good at hiding their pain. Symptoms of pain in our pets may be difficult to spot but there are warning signs we should all understand. The causes for pain in animals are much like those for people. Injuries like broken bones, sprained ankles, cuts, and bruises are common, especially for outdoor pets. sickness like dental disease or cancer can happen to any pet at any age; and side effects of aging, like arthritis may seem to come out of nowhere. Acute injuries are generally easier to notice since they may come with obvious symptoms like bleeding or limping. However things like dental disease or arthritis may creep up over time which is why understanding your pet’s normal behaviors is key to identifying anything out of the ordinary. According to the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management https://www.ivapm.org/animal-pain-awareness-month, there are several common signs of pain to look out for.

• Decreased activity
• Not going up or down stairs
• Reluctance to jump onto surfaces
• Difficulty standing after laying down
• Decreased appetite
• Over grooming or licking a particular area

If you notice your pet displaying any of these symptoms, even if there does not seem to be any obvious cause, contact your vet right away. Early intervention may significantly reduce discomfort. In younger animals, pain management is often about acute injuries. But, as our pets age, disease can set in. Arthritis is especially common. The estimates vary but the American Animal Hospital Association estimates 1 in 5 dogs will be diagnosed in their lifetime and 20% of cats over the age of 11 will also suffer. The symptoms of arthritis are difficulty walking, going up and down stairs, getting up from laying down, noticeable stiffness, and all around changes in activity level. Although it is tempting to simply assume your pet is getting older and slowing down, it is always a good idea to visit your vet and identify possible pain mitigation. Treatment options are varied and include weight management, prescription foods, over the counter supplements, prescription drugs, and even hydrotherapy (physical therapy in a pool). A simple lifestyle change or daily supplement can add years of quality to your pet’s life. It can be difficult to notice pain when our pets don’t make it obvious so we must be alert and ready to advocate for them. Many painful conditions can be managed or even cured with simple treatment or medicine. As with humans, the sooner you identify a cause, the better the probable outcome.