Is Your Pet in Pain? How to Recognize the Signs & What to Do

Pain in pets isn’t always obvious. Unlike people, animals often mask signs of discomfort—sometimes due to instinct, sometimes because they simply can’t express what hurts. But just because they can’t tell us doesn’t mean they aren’t suffering. 

That’s why the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management has designated September as Animal Pain Awareness Month—an initiative to help pet parents recognize the often subtle signs of pain and seek timely veterinary care. Whether it’s acute discomfort from injury or surgery, or a chronic condition that develops gradually, early recognition and intervention are key to improving quality of life. 

Here we will discuss how untreated pain can affect pets physically and emotionally and share some insights on what pain looks like in animals—and how you can help. 

Common Signs of Pain in Dogs and Cats

Recognizing pain early is key to effective treatment. While every animal is different, the following signs may indicate your pet is experiencing discomfort: 

In dogs: 

• Reluctance to engage in usual activities 

• Limping or stiffness (remember: lameness is pain) 

• Whining, yelping, or other vocalizations when touched 

• Decreased appetite or energy, difficulty voiding 

• Hiding or seeking isolation, loss of appetite 

• Changes in posture or gait, “grimacing” with ears back or eyes partially closed 

In cats: 

• Avoiding jumping or climbing 

• Hissing or biting when handled 

• Flattened ears, flicking tail, or tense posture 

• Excessive grooming of one area—or lack of grooming 

• Hiding or withdrawing from family members 

If your pet displays any of these symptoms, it’s time to talk to your veterinarian. 

What Could Be Causing the Pain?

Pain in pets can arise from many sources—and in many cases, the cause may not be immediately obvious. At your veterinary hospital their collaborative, multi-specialty team will work together to identify the root of the problem and tailor treatment to your pet’s specific needs. Depending on the type of pain, one or more of the following services may be involved: 

Dental Disease or Fractured Teeth

Pain from dental issues is extremely common—and often overlooked. Red gums, tartar buildup, tooth root exposure, and bad breath are all signs that your pet may be experiencing oral discomfort. In some cases, cracked or worn-down teeth can also be painful, even if your pet continues to eat. 

Dentistry and Oral Surgery, led by a board-certified veterinary dentist, can help identify and treat the source of dental pain, from advanced cleaning and extractions to root canal therapy. 

Joint or Orthopedic Conditions

Arthritis, cruciate ligament injuries, dysplasia, and joint instability are just a few causes of chronic pain in pets. These conditions are particularly common in senior pets or active breeds.

To help address these conditions you will need to find a board-certified veterinary surgeon (DACVS) with advanced expertise in orthopedic diagnosis and treatment, including surgical and non-surgical options. Animal Rehabilitation services can also help pets recover mobility and reduce discomfort through customized exercise, laser therapy, and more. 

Neck and Back Issues

Conditions like Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), trauma, or spinal tumors can result in severe back pain and even neurological symptoms. Dogs with long backs and short legs are especially at risk for disc degeneration. 

Board-certified specialists in Neurology & Neurosurgery are trained to diagnose and treat spinal pain and related conditions, using advanced imaging (MRI/CT) and surgical intervention when necessary. We also work closely with our Critical Care and Rehabilitation teams to support recovery and manage ongoing pain. 

Managing Pain: Treatment Options

Once your veterinarian has determined that your pet is in pain—and identified the likely cause—there are several ways to manage that pain effectively. A multimodal approach often works best, combining medication, supportive therapies, and lifestyle adjustments to relieve discomfort and support healing. 

Pain Management After Surgery or Dental Procedures

If your pet is scheduled for surgery or a dental procedure, don’t hesitate to ask what kind of pain relief will be provided. Most patients receive medication before, during, and after their procedure to minimize discomfort and speed recovery. The duration and type of pain management will depend on the procedure, but ensuring comfort is always a top priority. 

Your veterinarian should follow current best practices for perioperative pain control in all species. 

Medications for Pain Relief

Veterinarians have access to a wide range of pain-relief medications and will choose the appropriate treatment based on your pet’s condition, species, and overall health. 

• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Commonly used for mild to moderate pain, NSAIDs reduce inflammation and discomfort. However, they must be used cautiously, especially in pets with kidney, liver, or gastrointestinal concerns. 

• Opioids: Medications like morphine, codeine, buprenorphine, and fentanyl may be used to control severe pain, such as after surgery or in advanced cases of cancer or arthritis. When prescribed and monitored appropriately, opioids can significantly improve comfort and quality of life. 

• Other Medications: Additional options include gabapentin, often used for nerve pain, and corticosteroids like prednisone and dexamethasone, which reduce inflammation in certain chronic or immune-mediated conditions. 

⚠️ Never give your pet human pain medications without veterinary guidance. Many over-the-counter drugs are toxic to dogs and cats and can cause serious harm—even in small doses. 

Non-Medication Therapies

Pain management doesn’t stop with prescriptions. Many pets benefit from complementary therapies, especially when dealing with chronic or mobility-related pain: 

• Acupuncture 

• Massage and laser therapy 

• Physical rehabilitation, including underwater treadmill sessions, strength-building exercises, and stretching 

It is important that your rehabilitation team works closely with your veterinarian to create customized recovery and pain management plans for pets of all ages and activity levels. 

Prevention Matters

Many painful conditions in pets are preventable—or manageable with early intervention. Here are a few key prevention tips: 

• Keep pets at a healthy weight to reduce strain on joints 

• Avoid overexertion, especially in older pets 

• Use supplements or prescription diets when appropriate 

• Schedule regular veterinary exams for early detection of issues 

Pain prevention and relief are integral to everything. Board-certified specialists in surgery, emergency and critical care, and rehabilitation collaborate to provide comprehensive care for both sudden and chronic pain cases. 

Whether your pet is recovering from surgery, managing an orthopedic condition, or suddenly showing signs of discomfort, contact your veterinarian or an emergency vet local to you to support you.

Don’t let your pet suffer in silence. If you suspect they’re in pain, reach out to your family veterinarian. We all want to help your pet live a more comfortable, happy life.