Chronic Pain in Cats: Recognition and Management

Cats are adept at hiding pain, making chronic conditions like arthritis — affecting the majority of senior cats — frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated despite effective management options.

Key Facts

Studies estimate 60-90% of cats over 12 years old have radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis
Cats rarely vocalize pain from arthritis — behavior changes are the primary indicator
Common behavioral signs of feline pain include reluctance to jump, altered grooming, reduced play, and hiding
Meloxicam, monoclonal antibody therapies, and physiotherapy are effective feline pain management options
Vets report that the majority of arthritis in cats goes unidentified and untreated

Welfare Considerations

Chronic pain in cats is a hidden welfare crisis. Unlike dogs, cats in pain typically become quieter and less active rather than vocalizing or seeking help. Owners interpret reduced jumping and play as normal aging rather than pain signals. Cats with painful joints groom themselves less completely, especially around the back and tail, because the postures required are uncomfortable. Effective pain management — now available in convenient injectable monoclonal antibody form that avoids the risks of NSAIDs in cats — can restore quality of life dramatically when pain is identified.

What You Can Do

Learn the behavioral pain indicators for cats and assess your senior cat using a validated feline pain scale
Discuss mobility and pain assessment with your vet at every senior cat health check
Ask your vet about feline-specific pain management options including new monoclonal antibody therapies
Provide gentle environmental modifications — ramps, lower litter trays, raised food bowls — to support cats with joint pain
Share feline pain awareness information with other cat owners who may have senior cats with undiagnosed pain