Signs Your Cat May Be in Pain

Cats are hardwired to hide pain — it’s a survival instinct. This makes recognizing discomfort one of the most important skills a cat owner can develop.

Behavioral Signs of Pain

• Withdrawing or hiding more than usual

• Decreased appetite or refusal to eat

• Avoiding being touched or reacting aggressively to handling

• Reduced jumping or reluctance to move

• Unusual aggression

• Changes in grooming (either less grooming or overgrooming one area)

• Reduced interest in play

• Changes in litter box habits

Physical Signs

• Squinting or half-closed eyes (the “pain face”)

• Flattened or rotated ears

• Hunched posture

• Guarding a body part

• Purring more than usual (cats sometimes purr to self-soothe)

• Rapid or shallow breathing

• Tense muscles

What to Do

Never give your cat human pain medication — many are toxic to cats (especially acetaminophen and ibuprofen). If you suspect pain, schedule a vet visit. Your vet can identify the cause and prescribe cat-safe pain management.

Keeping a behavior log helps your vet understand the timeline and severity. Return to our Cat Health guide for more.

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