Your pet can’t tell you with words when they are experiencing pain. In addition, some kinds of domesticated animals, such as cats, are known for doing their utmost to carry on, even though they’re actually in physical pain. As a loving pet owner, this is heartbreaking, since there are effective ways to get pet pain management  in Lawrence, KS.

12 Signs That Your Pet May be in Pain

Thankfully, there are telltale signs that your pet may be in pain, even if they are trying to hide it. A vigilant pet owner can pick up signs such as:

1. Avoiding being picked up or petted, even though they usually love to be physically affectionate
2. Sudden snapping, growling, hissing, etc., that is out of character
3. Excessive licking; licking is often a self-soothing behavior in cases of pain
4. Insistent or excessive vocalization that is out of character
5. Hiding or spending long periods of time out of sight
6. Lack of interest in favorite toys or playtime activities
7. Sitting for hours at a time in one position
8. Unusual, “non-reaction” to stimuli that would have caused a reaction previously, such as another passing animal, a bird, etc.
9. Excessive panting or labored breathing
10. Increased heart rate
11. Limping or favoring one leg over another
12. Resistance to climbing stairs or jumping

Pet Pain Relief in Lawrence, KS

If you notice one or more of these symptoms in your pet, talk to your veterinarian. Your responsible Lawrence, KS vet has a range of pain relief options that can help your pet. They include:

• Physical therapy
• Acupuncture
• Chiropractic
• Massage
• Traction
• Laser therapy
• Herbal therapy
• Nutrition therapy
• Prescription pain medication

Your vet can tell you more about the various ways to manage pain in your pet. To book your appointment, please contact your Lawrence, KS, vet today.

Your four-legged friend can’t use words to tell you he’s in pain, but most pet owners can tell when something is off about their best boy or girl. Many different conditions can make your pet feel uncomfortable, and if you don’t act right away, that discomfort may worsen rapidly. That’s why we’ve put together this short list of indicators that can alert you when it’s time to take your furry friend to see the veterinarian in Lawrence, KS.

1. Excessive Grooming

If your cat, dog, or other friend with fur seems suddenly obsessed with grooming, they’re likely uncomfortable. Grooming includes licking, biting, and chewing of different areas of the body. These often include the paws, hindquarters, private areas, or nose. Animals groom themselves to keep clean, to regulate body temperature, and sometimes, as a form of communication — such as when they groom one another. But if your pet can’t seem to stop, it’s time to visit the vet.

2. Loss of Interest in Grooming

At the opposite end of the spectrum, pets who suddenly lose interest in grooming may also be trying to tell you something. It’s possible they have pain from arthritis and can no longer reach certain places on their bodies. They may also be too sick to be bothered, just like you may skip your daily shower when you’re down with the flu.

3. Restlessness

If your dog or cat can’t get comfortable, there’s usually a good reason. Pets who pace, who can’t lie down, or who try to lie down and get right back up do so for a reason. If you notice this behavior, call your veterinarian right away.

Other common symptoms of pain in pets include sudden aggression, whining, growling, hissing, loss of appetite, and having accidents in the house. All may be signs your very good boy isn’t feeling so great. If you suspect your pet is in pain in Lawrence, KS, call Gentle Care Animal Hospital today.