As a professional pet sitter in Kenosha or Milwaukee, we see a lot of animals acting normally or they show us their pain. Just like humans, our pets feel pain. Unfortunately, they can’t exactly tell us when they are. Sometimes it’s obvious, like when you notice your pet limping or if they have a visible wound. Other times it’s not so obvious because cats and dogs can be very good at hiding their discomfort. However, there are ways that animals communicate that they are in pain and it is important to know the signs.
What your dog or cat can show you:
Verbal cues-yelping, whining, barking, panting, distress yawning.
Facial Expressions-squinting or grimacing, or dilated pupils.
Posture-is your pet sitting in hunched over position, with its head down, tail tucked?
Change in habit-decrease in appetite, more sleep, pacing, increased thirst.
Variations in your dogs or cats activity level-is your pet reluctant to chase a favorite ball, play with the laser wand, run and walk like he or she usually does? On the opposite end of the spectrum, pets in pain become restless. They can have difficulty getting comfortable and may repetitively get up and lie down or circle a lot. You may also notice continuous or intermittent trembling and shaking.
Behavioral Abnormalities-Knowing your pets normal ‘mood’ is important. Any indication that your pet is acting out of character should be questioned. Typically, happy and social dogs and cats may withdraw from social interaction and keep to themselves when they are in pain. Pets in pain try to hide and avoid being handled or they can become exceptionally needy and attention-seeking. Animals can also become uncharacteristically aggressive when they are in pain. It is important to approach them with caution.
Best to err on the side of caution and seek the advice of a veterinarian you can trust.
