Why Recognising Pain in Cats Is So Important
Cats are masters of disguise. In the “wild”, showing pain makes them vulnerable, so they’ve evolved to hide it, even from the people who love them most. Unfortunately, that means a cat in pain may look perfectly “fine” on the surface.
1. How Pain Affects a Cat’s Behaviour
When a cat experiences pain, it doesn’t just affect their body; it changes their emotional state. Pain triggers stress hormones, alters movement, and can even reshape the cat’s sense of safety.
Common behavioural changes include:
Becoming withdrawn or hiding more often
Sudden irritability or swatting when touched
Reduced appetite or change in food preferences
Avoiding grooming (or overgrooming one area)
Restlessness, pacing, or vocalising at night
Using the litter box less (or urinating outside of it)
Sleeping in new or unusual spots
2. Common Causes of Pain in Cats
Pain in cats can be acute (short-term, from an injury) or chronic (long-term, from disease or degeneration). Common causes include:
Arthritis and joint pain – often underdiagnosed in older cats
Dental pain – tooth resorption or gum disease is common but hidden
Bladder inflammation (FIC) – stress and pain combine to cause litter box issues
Injuries or abscesses – especially in outdoor or multi-cat homes
Digestive discomfort – constipation or pancreatitis can cause irritability
Nerve or spinal pain – such as spondylosis or disc degeneration
Post-surgical or trauma pain
Even mild discomfort can have a major impact on your cat’s quality of life.
3. Subtle Signs Your Cat Might Be in Pain
Because cats are so quiet about their discomfort, it’s often the small, gradual changes that give clues.
| Physical Signs | Behavioural Signs | Emotional Signs |
|---|---|---|
| Limping, stiffness, slower movement | Hiding, reduced play, avoiding stairs | Sudden irritability or clinginess |
| Matted coat or less grooming | Hissing when picked up | Less interaction or vocalisation |
| Squinting, dilated pupils | Not using the litter box | Changes in sleep patterns |
| Licking one area repeatedly | Uncharacteristic aggression | Withdrawn or “flat” expression |
If you notice even subtle shifts in your cat’s daily habits, it’s worth investigating further.
4. Pain and “Behaviour Problems” - What’s the Connection?
Many feline “behaviour issues” are actually rooted in pain or discomfort.
A cat that urines outside the litter box might have bladder pain or arthritis that makes getting into the box difficult.
A cat that growls when brushed might have sore joints or skin sensitivity.
A cat that bites when petted might associate touch with discomfort.
A cat that stops grooming could have dental pain or stiffness.
Correcting these behaviours through training alone won’t help unless the underlying pain is identified and treated.
5. The Role of Veterinary Assessment
If your cat’s behaviour changes unexpectedly, always start with a veterinary check-up. Cats often hide pain until it becomes severe, so early detection is key.
Your vet may recommend:
Pain relief or anti-inflammatory medication
Dental examination or cleaning
Blood tests to rule out kidney, liver, or thyroid issues
X-rays for arthritis or injuries
Environmental or dietary adjustments
6. Supporting a Cat in Pain at Home
Once pain is diagnosed and managed, small environmental adjustments can make a big difference:
Provide soft, warm bedding, especially for arthritic cats.
Offer easy access to food, water, and litter boxes (avoid stairs).
Use ramps or low entry litter trays to reduce joint strain.
Keep routines consistent to reduce stress.
Encourage gentle play and scent-based enrichment to maintain mobility and mental health.
Avoid forcing interaction – let your cat decide when and how to engage. Comfort and choice build trust.
7. Behavioural Help After Pain
Even after physical pain is relieved, some cats may retain learned fear or defensive behaviours.
A cat who has been in pain for months may still react protectively, especially to touch or handling.
A qualified feline behaviourist can guide gentle desensitisation and positive reinforcement exercises to rebuild confidence and connection.
Understanding pain in cats isn’t just about medical care – it’s about empathy. When you learn to listen to subtle changes, you give your cat the voice they don’t have.
Looking for help from a qualified animal behaviourist?
At Gentled Animals, we’re here to help you and your cat live harmoniously, with understanding and kindness at the heart of every solution.