Is Your Cat in Pain? Subtle Signs You Might Be Missing

Cats Don’t Complain—But They Still Hurt

At Winchester Veterinary Clinic, your trusted vet clinic and animal hospital in Canal Winchester, OH, we know just how good cats are at hiding discomfort. Your feline overlord might strut through the house like royalty, but that doesn’t mean she isn’t quietly dealing with pain. Unlike dogs, cats rarely yelp, whimper, or visibly limp. Instead, they withdraw, change routines, and suffer in silence.

If you’ve ever found yourself Googling “vet near me” because something about your cat seems a little off, you’re not alone. Our veterinarians at Winchester Veterinary Clinic want to help you decode your kitty’s behavior and recognize the hidden signs of pain—before things get worse.

Why Cats Hide Their Pain

Survival Instincts at Work

In the wild, a cat that shows weakness becomes an easy target. Domestic cats retain this evolutionary behavior. They mask their symptoms, even serious ones, until they can’t anymore. That’s why it’s so important for cat owners to recognize subtle changes.

Pain Isn’t Always Dramatic

Unlike acute injuries that cause immediate limping or vocalization, many sources of feline pain—arthritis, dental disease, internal discomfort—develop gradually. 

Signs Your Cat May Be in Pain

1. Changes in Behavior

• Increased hiding or isolation
  
• Irritability or aggression when touched
  
• Decreased interest in play or attention
  

2. Altered Grooming Habits

• Overgrooming a specific spot (may indicate arthritis or injury)
  
• Greasy or matted coat from lack of grooming
  
• Excessive licking of joints or paws
  

3. Mobility Shifts

• Hesitation to jump or climb
  
• Difficulty using stairs
  
• Changes in posture or walking pattern
  

4. Changes in Eating or Litter Box Use

• Refusing crunchy food (could mean dental pain)
  
• Urinating outside the litter box (may indicate joint or abdominal pain)
  
• Eating less or seeming uncomfortable while eating
  

5. Vocalization and Facial Expression

• Unusual meowing, growling, or hissing
  
• Squinting, grimacing, or dilated pupils
  

If your cat shows more than one of these signs—or just seems “off” for more than a day or two, schedule a visit with your veterinarian.

Common Causes of Pain in Cats

At Winchester Veterinary Clinic, our vets most frequently see feline pain caused by:

• Arthritis – especially in cats over 7 years old
  
• Dental disease – a major source of chronic pain
  
• Injuries or soft tissue trauma – often from unnoticed falls or rough play
  
• Urinary tract issues – including blockages and infections
  
• Pancreatitis or gastrointestinal problems
  
• Cancer or tumors
  

Because cats are subtle communicators, regular wellness exams help catch these issues before they progress.

What To Do If You Suspect Your Cat Is in Pain

Don’t Wait It Out

Pain rarely resolves on its own. Waiting too long may lead to worsening symptoms or irreversible damage.

Skip the Human Medications

Many human painkillers are toxic to cats. Never give ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen. Instead, consult your veterinarian right away.

Schedule an Exam

At Winchester Veterinary Clinic in Canal Winchester, OH, we’ll perform a thorough physical exam, possibly followed by X-rays or bloodwork. Once we find the cause, we’ll create a tailored pain management plan to help your feline pal feel better.

How We Treat Pain in Cats

Pain management can include:

• Anti-inflammatory or pain-relieving medications
  
• Dental treatments or extractions
  
• Nutritional supplements for joint health
  
• Environmental modifications (like ramps or low-entry litter boxes)
  
• Laser therapy or acupuncture for chronic pain
  

Our goal is always to improve quality of life, using safe, cat-friendly options that work with your kitty’s personality and health history.

Fun Fact: Cats Often Purr When They’re in Pain

That soothing sound isn’t always a sign of contentment. Cats sometimes purr to self-soothe or signal distress. It’s their version of a nervous hum!

FAQs

How can I tell if my older cat is in pain?

Watch for stiffness, hesitation to jump, and decreased grooming. Arthritis is common in senior cats and often overlooked.

Can cats live with chronic pain?

Maybe, to a certain extent—but they shouldn’t have to. Proper diagnosis and treatment can dramatically improve their comfort and lifespan.

My cat suddenly became aggressive—could it be pain?

Yes. Pain often makes cats lash out, especially when touched. Any sudden behavior change deserves a vet visit.

Is dental pain really that serious?

Absolutely. Cats with infected or broken teeth may stop eating, lose weight, or become depressed. Dental care is essential.

Do cats hide pain better than dogs?

In general, yes. Cats are more solitary and less vocal than dogs, making their signs of pain easier to miss.

Let Winchester Veterinary Clinic Help Your Cat Feel Her Best in Canal Winchester, OH

Your kitty may not tell you she’s hurting—but at Winchester Veterinary Clinic, your go-to vet near me and feline-friendly animal clinic in Canal Winchester, OH, we know how to spot what she’s hiding.

Whether she’s showing clear symptoms or just seems “not quite right,” don’t wait. Our veterinarians are here to provide compassionate care and expert pain relief. Schedule a wellness exam today and help your feline bestie feel like herself again.