Recognising pain in companion animals requires understanding species-specific pain indicators, as cats and dogs mask discomfort in ways that delay owner recognition.
Many companion animals experience unrecognised and therefore untreated pain for extended periods. The Glasgow Composite Pain Tool and feline grimace scale provide validated, accessible tools for owners and veterinary professionals. Learning the subtle signs of chronic pain in companion species is one of the highest-value welfare skills an owner can develop. Regularly assessing your pet for pain signs rather than assuming absence of signs means absence of pain significantly improves welfare outcomes.