Effective pain management is central to companion animal welfare. Many dogs and cats still experience undertreated pain from surgery, injury, dental disease, arthritis, and cancer.
Pain is one of the most significant welfare concerns for companion animals. Despite advances in veterinary medicine, studies consistently show that pain is underdiagnosed and undertreated in dogs and cats. Cats present particular challenges because their stoic behaviour masks pain signs that owners and even veterinarians may miss. Chronic arthritis pain reduces quality of life for millions of older pets, yet many owners do not recognise the behavioural changes as pain. Dental disease — extremely common in companion animals — causes chronic oral pain that is frequently unaddressed until advanced. Effective pain management improves not only welfare but also recovery rates, behaviour, and human-animal bonds. Regular veterinary check-ups, owner education, and use of validated pain assessment tools are essential.