Companion Animal Welfare

Cat Chronic Pain Recognition and Management

Cats are stoic pain sufferers and chronic pain — particularly from osteoarthritis — is widely underdiagnosed and undertreated in domestic cats.

Key Facts

Studies suggest over 90% of cats over 12 years have radiographic signs of osteoarthritis
Cats mask pain instinctively — reduced activity is often the only obvious sign
Only a fraction of arthritic cats receive any form of pain management
Safe feline pain relief options include meloxicam, gabapentin and newer monoclonal antibody treatments
Environmental modifications (ramps, low-sided litter trays) improve quality of life significantly

Welfare Considerations

Chronic pain profoundly affects feline welfare and is often mistaken for normal ageing. Cats in pain stop grooming, interact less, eliminate outside the litter box and become irritable. Owners rarely report these changes as pain symptoms. Veterinary pain scoring tools adapted for cats help identify subtle signs. Monthly anti-nerve growth factor injections (frunevetmab) now provide effective pain control without gastrointestinal risks.

What You Can Do

Watch for subtle pain signs in older cats: reduced jumping, stiff gait, less grooming
Ask your vet about pain assessment and management options for senior cats
Modify your home with ramps, steps and low-entry litter boxes for arthritic cats
Schedule annual senior wellness exams from age 7, twice-yearly from age 11