Cats are masters at concealing pain, making chronic pain one of the most underdiagnosed and undertreated welfare problems in companion animals. Learning to recognise subtle signs is essential.
Chronic pain in cats represents a major hidden welfare burden. Because cats rarely vocalise pain and continue to perform basic functions, owners and sometimes veterinarians miss significant suffering. A cat who stops jumping, becomes reluctant to groom, or withdraws from social interaction may be experiencing significant musculoskeletal or dental pain. This pain is often treatable, yet remains unaddressed for months or years. The suffering is compounded by the paradox that stoic behaviour — the very adaptation that allowed cats to survive — makes their pain invisible. Regular veterinary screening for pain using validated scales, proactive dental care, and owner education about subtle pain signs are all high-impact welfare interventions for the hundreds of millions of companion cats worldwide.