Just like people, cats can experience pain in various forms. Cats are often skilled at hiding their discomfort, which can make it challenging to recognize when they are suffering. In the past, people misunderstood cats’ stoic behavior to mean that they didn’t feel pain as intensely as humans do. However, research has debunked this notion. Cats feel pain and can suffer greatly if left untreated.
Unlike humans, cats cannot understand that pain might be temporary or manageable. They don’t know why they hurt, nor do they have any way of understanding that the pain will eventually subside or that relief is available. Without intervention, pain for a cat can be a confusing and distressing experience.
The Veterinarian’s Oath
A veterinarian’s oath includes a commitment to the relief of animal suffering:
“Being admitted to the profession of veterinary medicine, I solemnly swear to use my scientific knowledge and skills for the benefit of society through the protection of animal health and welfare, the prevention and relief of animal suffering…”
Veterinarians adhering to this oath are ethically bound not only to recognize pain in cats but also to actively work to relieve it. Considering pain relief as optional contradicts this commitment. Proactive pain management is absolutely critical to providing appropriate care.
Recognizing Pain in Cats
Cats are especially adept at masking pain, making it crucial for owners to be aware of subtle signs of discomfort. Recognizing these early signs allows us to provide timely and effective relief. The American Animal Hospital Association and feline specialists have identified common symptoms of pain in cats:
- Vocalizing: Unusual meowing, growling, purring, yowling, or groaning.
- Activity Level: Reduced activity, reluctance to move, difficulty jumping or climbing, hiding, or pacing.
- Self-Protection: Guarding a specific area, limping, avoiding touch, or hesitating to sit or lie down.
- Daily Habits: Decreased appetite, changes in litter box habits, altered grooming routines, or increased sleep.
- Facial Expressions: Squinting, dilated pupils, flattened ears, or unusual facial tension.
- Aggression or Withdrawal: Changes in behavior, hiding more than usual, growling, hissing, or acting out of character.
- Self-Mutilation: Excessive grooming, licking, biting, or scratching at specific areas.
- Posture: A hunched back, reluctance to stand, lying with legs tucked under, or appearing tense or stiff.
How We Can Help Relieve Pain in Cats
At The Hometown Veterinarian, we’re committed to diagnosing and treating pain in cats with a range of effective options. The first step is a thorough evaluation to identify the source of pain, allowing us to create a personalized treatment plan for your cat.
- Surgical Solutions: When appropriate, surgical options can help eliminate the source of chronic pain. Our team is skilled in performing various surgeries to address painful conditions and improve quality of life.
- Medication and Holistic Therapies: In cases where surgery is not needed, we offer a variety of medications specifically safe for cats to control pain. Additionally, we provide holistic treatments like laser therapy and acupuncture to support pain relief and enhance healing.
- Monoclonal Antibody Therapy: A groundbreaking development in feline pain management is Solensia, a monoclonal antibody injection for cats that effectively targets chronic pain without the side effects of traditional medications. We have seen remarkable results with this treatment, especially for cats with osteoarthritis and other chronic conditions.
Dr. Grant Jacobson maintains active membership in the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management, reflecting his commitment to staying at the forefront of effective and compassionate pain management for all animals, including cats.
Help Your Cat Live Its Best Life
Our caring team at The Hometown Veterinarian is dedicated to providing effective pain management solutions for your cat. Whether it’s through medication, advanced therapies, or targeted treatments like Solensia, we’re here to help your cat live a comfortable and pain-free life.
To learn more about treating pain in cats or to schedule an evaluation, call us at 641-758-3333 or click to request an appointment