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Assessing pain in pets can be challenging, even for experienced veterinary professionals. While pets cannot grade their pain on a scale of 1-10, they can communicate discomfort in other ways.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n If you notice your pet displaying any of these four subtle signs of pain, don\u2019t overlook them!<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Pets often eat less when they are in pain. A \u201cchow hound\u201d may suddenly become a picky eater and accept only high value foods. A counter-surfing cat looking for a treat may suddenly become less mischievous.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Note: It is NOT recommend to syringe water or force feed your pet at home due to the risk of aspiration and possible development of pneumonia.\u00a0<\/span><\/i>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Pets in pain may seem tired, reluctant to walk, use stairs, or jump on or off furniture. Older pets may appear to be \u201cslowing down\u201d.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Pets experiencing pain often stop acting like themselves. Cats may become withdrawn or hide for extended periods. A dog that normally cuddles on the couch may choose to sleep in its kennel. Some pets may shake or tremble.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Both cats and dogs may excessively lick or chew a painful area.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Pets are very stoic and often mask pain. So, if you notice any of these subtle signs, contact your family veterinarian or local animal emergency hospital. If you aren\u2019t certain your pet\u2019s pain is an emergency, you can call and talk to a triage technician to determine next steps. In the event you are waiting for an appointment with your family veterinarian, monitor your pet closely and journal noticeable signs and behaviors. Seek immediate veterinary care if the situation worsens and your pet begins to display any signs of a <\/span>pet emergency<\/span><\/a>.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0Written by Betsy Chisler, DVM.<\/i>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n More Reading:\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n ![\"pets](\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/2-1.png\")
<\/p>\n1. Decreased Appetite<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n
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<\/p>\n2. Slowing Down<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n
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![\"pets](\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/4-1.png\")
<\/p>\n3. <\/span>Behavior Changes<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n
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<\/p>\n4. Overgrooming<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n
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