My pet is hurting somewhere
My pet is in pain: how do I recognize it and what should I do?
Our pets can't speak to express their pain, but they have other ways of showing us that they're suffering. Whether it's a dog, cat or NAC (new pet), it's important to know how to spot the signs of pain and adopt the right behaviour to relieve your companion.
How can I tell if my pet is in pain?
Signs of pain vary depending on the species and the intensity of the problem, but certain behaviors should alert you:
A change in attitude: your pet becomes more apathetic, keeps to himself, or on the contrary, becomes aggressive or irritable.
Unusual complaints: moans, meows, grunts or squeaks for no apparent reason.
A change in posture or gait: limping, crouching, avoiding movement or adopting an abnormal position.
Reduced appetite: an animal that refuses to eat or drink may be suffering.
Excessive grooming or licking of a specific area , even self-mutilation: a frequent sign of localized pain.
Difficulty getting up, jumping or moving around.
Faster or more difficult breathing.
In some NACs, pain is harder to detect because they often mask their symptoms. Decreased activity, weight loss or abnormal posture are signs not to be ignored.
What are the possible causes of pain?
- Injury or trauma: blow, fall, bite, cut...
- A joint or muscle problem: osteoarthritis, sprain, fracture...
- Dental disease: abscess, gingivitis, broken tooth...
- Infection or inflammation: ear infection, cystitis, skin abscess...
- Internal illness: digestive pain, kidney failure, tumor...
What should I do if my pet is in pain?
Observe him carefully for signs of pain and try to identify the cause.
Avoid excessive handling, especially if he seems to be in pain to the touch.
Never give medications intended for humans, as some can be toxic to animals.
Keep your pet calm and restrict his movements if he seems to be in pain when moving.
Make an appointment with a veterinarian if the pain seems severe or persistent.
When is an emergency consultation necessary?
- Injury or trauma: blow, fall, bite, cut...
- A joint or muscle problem: osteoarthritis, sprain, fracture...
- Dental disease: abscess, gingivitis, broken tooth...
- Infection or inflammation: ear infection, cystitis, skin abscess...
- Internal illness: digestive pain, kidney failure, tumor...
How can I relieve my pet's pain?
Your veterinarian can prescribe treatments adapted to the cause of the pain:
- Animal-specific analgesics and anti-inflammatories.
- Local care (disinfection, dressing, removal of foreign bodies, etc.).
- Physiotherapy or rehabilitation for joint problems.
As an owner, your role is to be attentive to your pet's signs of suffering and to act quickly to provide the best care.
If you have the slightest doubt, don't hesitate to ask your vet for advice. Prompt treatment will improve your pet's comfort and health!