Signs That Your Pet is in Pain

September is Animal Pain Awareness Month! Sometimes, it can be very clear that something is wrong with your animal companion. For instance, if you see that your pet is limping, has stopped eating, or has a clear injury, you know your little buddy needs to see the vet. However, sometimes the warning signs aren’t always that clear. Read on as a local Thorold, ON vet lists some signs that your beloved pet may be hurting.

Fluffy tends to be a bit shy about letting on that she isn’t feeling well. Hiding is one common sign that something isn’t right with a cat. You may also notice your pet’s fur looking greasy or unkempt. Other warning signs include vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory issues, fever, litterbox woes, and unusual behavior or vocalizations.

If Fido isn’t feeling well, he may not feel very playful. He may also be grouchy and/or withdrawn. You may notice your pup licking or chewing at a specific spot. Uncharacteristic behavior, such as whimpering, pawing at his head, restlessness, and a reduced interest in play are also warning signs. Your canine pal may also pant heavily if he isn’t feeling well, and could get grumpy.

Some of the things to watch out for with birds include unusual vocalizations, dizziness, lethargy, stumbling, and sitting or walking on the bottom of the cage. Changes in the amount, color, or texture of a bird’s waste are also red flags. Polly may also stop preening, or go the opposite route and pluck her feathers out. An inflamed cere, discharge from the eyes, and red, swollen, or crusty feet and legs are more symptoms to watch out for.

Bunnies, gerbils, hamsters, and other tiny furballs can show pain in many of the same ways as the pets we’ve just mentioned. Unkempt fur, panting, constipation, hiding, lethargy, unusual postures or vocalizations, diarrhea, and fever are some warning signs.

Reptiles aren’t as personable as other pets, so it’s important to pay close attention to them. Sitting or moving in a stiff, unusual manner is one red flag. You may also notice discharge from the nose, eyes, or mouth; lesions; anorexia; lethargy; and/or dull, scaly skin.

If you see any of these symptoms—or any other unusual behavior—in your pet, call us, your local Thorold, ON vet clinic, right away. We’re here to help!