Just like humans, cats can suffer pain due to several of causes ranging from dental problems to indigestion. A cat in pain can often hide this condition, but to be able to help your cat, you need to look for some subtle symptoms.
1. Hiding Behavior
When in pain, cats tend to be withdrawn and hide in different places. You may find your pet hidden in closets, under furniture or in the yard. The cat seeks secluded places. This may also be a sign of the last stage of pregnancy, but if your cat is neutered or a male, this is clearly not the case.
2. Lack of Appetite
A cat in pain will not eat as much as usual. Some cats, especially if they suffer from a tooth ache or gum problems may refuse to eat. If you notice that your cat doesn’t eat for more than 48 hours, you should consult the vet.
3. Breathing Irregularities
If your cat is in pain, he may often pant or breathe superficially.
4. Agitation and Sleeplessness
A cat that is in pain may be very agitated; he may march up and down the room and will not be able to calm down.
A lot of cats will stay up during the night.
5. Loud Meowing
Being in pain, your cat can vocalize his pain through loud meowing and crying. This may also signal that your cat is ready to mate, but, if your cat is neutered, this is no longer the case.
Some cats may stop meowing due to pain; so if you notice that your cat used to meow and suddenly stops, this should be a warning sign.
6. Personality Changes
When in pain, your cat can suffer from personality changes. He may not respond when you are calling, refuse to play and become irritable and even aggressive if not left alone.
The cat may also be aggressive when you accidentally touch the area that is painful.
7. Limping and Touching Painful Area
Your cat may be limping, if the pain is in the area of the limbs or back. Your cat may also touch the painful area with his paws, if this is accessible. For instance, a cat with ear pain will hold his paws in the ear area.
The main causes of pain in cats include dental problems, trauma and undetected injuries, digestive problems, cancer, infections (skin, ear, eye, urinary tract infections), back diseases, joint diseases or poisoning.
You should pay attention to your cat’s behavior and when grooming him, make sure to check for any unusual signs, lumps or injuries. Consult the vet whenever you suspect there may be a problem. The vet will be able to determine the source of the pain and administrate proper medication and possibly some pain killers.
Some of the most common pain medications used in cats include non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs such as metacam and aspirin or opiates such as tramadol. Never give your cat human pain killers, as these may be toxic.