Effective Treatments for Cat Pain Relief

Cat pain can be hard to spot. Sometimes there are obvious signs like limping or prolonged crying, but often, the signs are subtler. Cats may withdraw or become irritable. Acute pain may cause panting or even purring.

The Dangers of Pain Medications

Many common pain relievers are toxic to cats-do not give your cat any type of over-the-counter pain medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Use caution when treating your cat's pain because they do not easily metabolize these pain relieving drugs. Natural approaches to cat pain management offer a safer method of addressing your cat's pain symptoms.

Causes of Pain

Acute pain is caused by a minor accident or cat injury and should begin to improve within 3 to 4 days. Pain associated with progressive feline illnesses or conditions such as joint disease, cancer or neuropathic disorders is considered chronic and not subject to immediate improvement.

Your veterinarian may use a pain scale to rate your cat's pain. The pain scale questionnaire analyzes various data including age, gender and pain intensity. Pain scales are subjective, but helpful in assessing pain and determining treatment.

A Healthy Diet for Joint Comfort

Arthritis causes pain in many older cats. To minimize the impact of this common degenerative condition, keep your cat at a healthy weight. Obesity is a leading cause of joint pain as well as diabetes. Choose a cat food that contains a named meat protein as its main ingredient to ensure that your cat gets adequate nutrients, vitamins and enzymes.

Supplements and Nutraceuticals

Add non-prescription supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin to strengthen and repair painful, damaged tendons and joints and offer essential fatty acids (EFAs) to reduce inflammation.

Acupuncture for Pain and Illness

There are over 150,000 veterinary acupuncturists practicing today, using this safe and non-invasive treatment to fight pain as well as treat cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal and neurological disorders.

The Many Benefits of Massage

Applying pressure to specific areas of the body helps to increase flexibility and movement, reduces inflammation, stress and pain and improves circulation. A licensed professional can perform therapeutic massage, but cat owners can perform simple techniques at home.

Chiropractic Adjustments

Optimal function of the spinal column as it relates to the overall framework of the body is the basis of chiropractic. Correction of subluxations-a problem in a joint or joints of the spine-improves mobility and range of motion. Chiropractic is very useful for muscle-related pain.

Home Care for Pain

To keep your cat safe and comfortable, follow these tips:

  • Provide a litter box on each floor of the house to reduce stair climbing
  • Install a litter box with a lower side for easy entry and exit
  • Be sure food and water bowls are within easy reach
  • Stress increases pain symptoms. Provide a safe, quiet place for your cat to retreat
  • A heated pet bed may ease stiff joints
  • Gently brush or comb your cat regularly, especially if stiffness prevents her from doing so herself

Non-invasive and non-toxic pain treatments are safe to use and will improve your elderly or injured cat's quality of life.

 

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