Is Your Pet in Pain? What Every Pet Owner Should Know
Pain isn’t fun for any of us, and our furry friends are no exception. More than 45 million household pets suffer from chronic or acute pain, yet many cases go unnoticed. September is Animal Pain Awareness Month, a time dedicated to helping pet owners recognize the signs of pain so they can take action to improve their pet’s quality of life.
Six Common Signs of Pain in Pets
Slowing down in activity – Struggling with stairs, difficulty standing after lying down, less interest in play, or reluctance to jump onto surfaces. For cats, avoiding high spots is often a key signal.
Decreased eating or drinking – While this can point to serious medical issues, it may also indicate pain.
Changes in grooming – Overgrooming or licking a particular spot may signal pain. On the other hand, decreased grooming may mean it’s too uncomfortable to twist and clean.
Bathroom changes – Pain can affect posture during elimination. Cats may also avoid the litter box if it’s painful to climb in or out.
Increased respiration – Faster breathing can be triggered by discomfort.
Routine changes – Shifts in sleep patterns, preferred resting places, or overall behavior may point to pain.
What to Do (and Not Do)
Do contact your veterinarian if you notice behavior or health changes.
Do take note of signs and symptoms to share with your vet.
Do follow your vet’s guidance on limiting activity with leashes or kennels when needed.
Don’t give human medication or attempt to treat pain without veterinary advice. (For more on safe medication practices, check out our blog on giving pets human medications here.)
Do support your pet’s overall health with regular exercise and a balanced diet.
HART is Here to Help!
At our Bredel Clinic, we offer two advanced treatments to help ease your pet’s pain: Laser Therapy and Librela or Solensia injections.
At our Bredel Clinic, we offer two advanced treatments to help ease your pet’s pain: Laser Therapy and Librela or Solensia injections.
Librela & Solensia: Breakthrough Pain Relief
Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common sources of chronic pain in senior dogs and cats (yes, cats get arthritis too!). But now, relief is possible.
Librela (for dogs) and Solensia (for cats) are once-monthly injections that block the nerve signals responsible for pain.
Unlike traditional medications, they’re processed differently in the body, making them safe for both young and senior pets.
With just one injection a month, pets can regain comfort, mobility, and joy in their daily lives.
Laser Therapy: Gentle, Non-Invasive Healing
If your pet struggles with arthritis, inflammation, post-surgical recovery, or even chronic skin issues, laser therapy may be the answer. This non-invasive treatment uses light energy to:
Reduce pain
Speed up healing
Improve mobility
It’s safe for both dogs and cats, and requires no medications.
Give Your Pet the Comfort They Deserve
At HART for Animals, your pet’s health and well-being always come first. If you suspect your pet is in pain, don’t wait, schedule an appointment with our Bredel Clinic today.
Call 301.387.7729 or visit www.hartforanimals.org to learn more about our veterinary services.