Signs and Symptoms of Pain

Understanding the signs and symptoms of pain in your pet is crucial, yet it's important to recognize that every animal is unique. This list serves as a guideline and should be interpreted within the context of your pet's normal behavior. While the presence of one or more symptoms may indicate discomfort, it doesn't necessarily mean your pet is in severe pain. On the other hand, just because these signs are absent, it doesn't necessarily mean your pet is free from pain.

It's essential to acknowledge that suffering can manifest in various ways. For instance, humans often consider difficulty breathing as a significant form of suffering, despite not being inherently painful. While some signs of pain may be familiar to you, others might be less so.

If you have any concerns or questions about your pet's well-being, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to provide support and guidance whenever you need it.

  1. Howling/moaning/whimpering

  2. Panting

  3. Pacing

  4. Squinting

  5. Trembling/shivering

  6. Hunched spine

  7. Jumping away from "invisible something"

  8. Almond shaped eyes (facial tension)

  9. Erect whiskers (facial tension)

  10. Whiskers flattened against face 

  11. Ears pulled back

  12. Lips pulled back

  13. Ears flattened against head

  14. Head pressing 

  15. Doesn't want to be touched

  16. Guards (won't allow touch) abdomen or other body part

  17. Holds foot up

  18. Slow to stand up or lay down

  19. Restless at night; can't sleep

  20. Decreased or no appetite

  21. Withdrawn OR follows family member around

  22. Clinched teeth

  23. Hiding

  24. Staring absently

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