Cracking the Code: Understanding Cat Pain origin and Detection
Cats, like all animals, can experience pain for various reasons. Osteoarthritis stands out as a prevalent source of chronic pain in aging cats, affecting an estimated 70% to 90% of senior feline companions. This condition, characterized by the degeneration of joint cartilage, often leads to inflammation, discomfort, and reduced mobility. However, it's important to note that pain can also stem from other factors. Here are common causes of pain in cats:
Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, is a leading contributor to chronic pain in older cats. It involves the gradual breakdown of cartilage in the joints, resulting in inflammation, pain, and decreased range of motion.
Injuries: Cats can sustain injuries from accidents, altercations with other animals, or falls, leading to pain due to bruising, lacerations, fractures, or muscle strains.
Dental Problems: Dental issues such as gingivitis, tooth decay, or abscesses can be a source of pain for cats.
Infections: Both internal (e.g., urinary tract infections) and external (e.g., skin infections) infections can cause discomfort and pain in cats.
Digestive Problems: Gastrointestinal issues like constipation, diarrhea, or pancreatitis can result in abdominal pain.
Surgery: Following surgical procedures, cats often experience pain during their recovery period.
Chronic Conditions: Underlying conditions like kidney disease, cancer, or inflammatory disorders can lead to persistent pain.
Detecting pain in cats can be challenging due to their natural tendency to conceal discomfort. However, there are key signs to watch for, whether the pain is associated with osteoarthritis or other causes:
Changes in Behavior: Cats in pain may become more withdrawn or irritable. They might hide more frequently, hiss or growl when touched, or avoid interactions with people or other pets.
Changes in Appetite: Pain can lead to a loss of appetite or difficulty eating.
Vocalization: Some cats may vocalize more or differently than usual when experiencing pain.
Litter Box Changes: Pain can lead to alterations in litter box habits, such as urinating or defecating outside the box or straining while in the litter box.
Licking or Grooming: Cats may excessively groom or lick the area that hurts, potentially leading to hair loss or irritated skin.
Posture and Movement: Cats in pain may adopt unusual postures or move more slowly and stiffly. They might limp if a specific limb is causing discomfort. Cats can also avoid jumping up and down or are not able to jump as high as before because of pain.
Changes in Sleeping Patterns: Cats might sleep more or less than usual when dealing with pain.
Change in Facial Expression: A tense or strained facial expression may indicate pain. Some app using AI are developed to help diagnosis.
Hiding or Withdrawing from Humans: Cats might hide in unusual places or withdraw from human interaction to cope with pain.
Panting or Open Mouth Breathing: Panting or open-mouth breathing in cats can indicate pain or distress and should be taken seriously.
Mood change like grumpiness or overall mood change: Cats can become grumpy or display noticeable mood changes when they're in pain, potentially becoming more irritable or aggressive.
It's crucial to closely monitor your cat's behavior and consult with a veterinarian if you suspect your cat is in pain. Effective pain management is a crucial aspect of veterinary care, especially when dealing with conditions like osteoarthritis. Your veterinarian can diagnose the underlying cause of the pain and develop a tailored treatment plan to alleviate it. Never administer over-the-counter pain medications to your cat without consulting a veterinarian, as some human medications can be toxic to cats. Remember to visit a cat-friendly vet clinic promptly when you observe persistent signs of pain to ensure your cat's well-being, particularly osteoarthritis, due to aging.
Dr K. Quintelier
