As our pets age, their bodies start to deteriorate just like ours do. Joints become stiff and painful, organs don’t function as well, and cancers or other diseases can develop. This often leads to chronic or acute pain that can significantly impact your pet’s quality of life. Knowing the signs of pain and discomfort in senior pets is important so that you can get them the treatment and relief they need.
Here are some of the most common signs that your aging furry friend may be in pain.
Behavioral Changes
One of the first signs that your senior pet is in pain is a change in normal behavior. This includes:
- Increased aggression or irritability, such as growling or snapping when touched in certain areas.
- Withdrawing from social interaction with family members or other pets.
- Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed like going for walks or playing fetch.
- Changes in sleep patterns such as difficulty settling down or sleeping more than normal.
- House soiling or having accidents in the home when they were previously house-trained.
- Excessive panting, pacing, or restless behavior.
These types of behavioral changes are often a sign your pet is experiencing chronic discomfort or pain.
Consulting with your veterinarian can help determine if pain is the underlying cause.
Altered Mobility
Stiffness, difficulty standing up or laying down, limping, or reluctance to jump up on furniture or climb stairs can all be indicators of orthopedic pain in senior pets.
Arthritis is very common in older dogs and cats and can significantly impact their quality of life if left untreated.
You may notice your pet seems stiffer getting up after lying down for a while or has trouble on stairs.
They may also be hesitant to run or play as they used to.
Limping or favoring a leg is another obvious sign of pain or injury.
Make an appointment with your vet if you observe changes in your pet’s mobility.
Vocalizations
Some pets will vocalize when they are in pain or discomfort.
Cats may meow or yowl excessively, especially when being handled or touched in certain spots.
Dogs may whimper, cry, or groan audibly.
If your normally quiet pet starts vocalizing for no apparent reason, they may be trying to tell you that something hurts.
Pay close attention to these vocal signals from your senior friend.
Inappetence
A decreased appetite or refusal to eat can signal that your pet is not feeling well.
When animals are in pain, they tend to go off their food.
An otherwise healthy senior pet who suddenly loses interest in their favorite meals may be experiencing dental pain, gastrointestinal upset, or some other internal issue causing discomfort.
Schedule a wellness exam if you notice a persistent change in appetite.
What You Can Do to Help
If your aging pet is displaying any signs of pain or discomfort, there are steps you can take to help provide relief and improve their quality of life.
- Have your vet do a thorough physical exam and diagnostic tests to pinpoint the source of pain. X-rays, bloodwork, and other assessments can check for conditions like arthritis and cancer.
- Explore pain management options such as prescription NSAIDs, joint supplements, therapeutic diets, and alternative treatments like acupuncture, massage, or laser therapy.
- Make adjustments around your home to accommodate your pet’s physical limitations – such as ramps, soft bedding, and easily accessible food/water.
- Maintain a healthy weight to avoid extra strain on muscles, joints, and organs.
- Stick to a consistent daily routine that provides structure and meets their basic needs.
- Ask your vet about at-home euthanasia services when the time comes to say goodbye, to avoid stress and anxiety from a visit to the clinic and ensure a peaceful passing for your pet.
Caring for a senior pet with pain or illness can be challenging.
However, with some adjustments and proactive pain management, you can keep them comfortable and maximize quality time together.
Always reach out to your veterinarian if your aging pet shows any signs of discomfort or distress.