September is Animal Pain Awareness Month. This is a very important topic! Pets can’t tell us if they don’t feel well, and they can’t drive themselves to the emergency clinic. It’s important to know what the warning signs are, so if something is wrong with your furry friend, you can spot it right away. In this article from Fairfield Animal Hospital, your Cy-Fair, TX animal clinic, a vet lists some of the common signs of pain in animals.

Dogs

Some of the things to watch for in dogs include shaking, trembling, crankiness, pacing, restlessness, agitation, sudden and/or unexplained aggression, and withdrawal. Fido may pace, bark, whine, or howl. You may also notice him having trouble getting up or down and/or climbing in or out of the car. Your canine pal may also not want to walk or play. He may stand in a stiff or strange position, perhaps with his head down, or lick at his paws, legs, or tail.

Cats

Kitties often try to hide signs of illness or injury, which can make it hard to tell if your furry pal is sick. Fluffy may retreat to a special hiding spot or corner. She may lose interest in food, and may stop grooming herself, in which case her coat will soon start looking rough. You may also notice your furball doesn’t want to be held, petted, or even touched: she may withdraw, flinch, hiss, or even bite if you try.

Pocket Pets

Tiny pets can also hurt! We strongly believe that all animals, even a little bitty gerbil or hamster, deserve to feel comfortable, happy, and safe, and to live pain free. These guys may huddle in one corner of their cage, hide, grind their teeth, or just act erratic in general. Rabbits and Guinea pigs may also vocalize in a distressed manner.

All Animals

Some things are common to any pet in pain. These include labored breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, weight gain or loss, and lack of appetite. Some other warning signs include lethargy, limping, fur loss, skin problems, swelling, visible sores or lesions, disorientation, and discolored gums. Call your vet immediately if you notice any of these warning signs. The sooner an issue is caught and treated, the better! Please contact Fairfield Animal Hospital, your Cy-Fair, TX animal clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!