Cat Chronic Pain: Recognition and Management

Chronic pain in cats is dramatically underrecognized and undertreated. Cats hide pain instinctively, making owner and veterinary awareness critical for welfare.

Key Facts

Osteoarthritis (OA) affects over 90% of cats over 12 years old radiographically
Cats rarely limp from OA — instead they reduce activity, avoid jumping, and change grooming habits
Dental disease affects over 70% of cats over 3 years and is a major but overlooked pain source
Validated feline pain scales (Feline Grimace Scale, UNESP-Botucatu) are now available for clinical use
NSAIDs safe for cats are limited — meloxicam at low doses is most commonly used long-term
Monoclonal antibody treatments (frunevetmab/Solensia) now provide monthly OA pain relief for cats

Welfare Considerations

Chronic pain in cats causes significant welfare harm that is largely invisible to owners who interpret reduced activity as "slowing down with age." Research shows cats on pain management improve mobility, increase activity levels, and show better grooming and social behavior — demonstrating that their previous state involved genuine suffering. The availability of frunevetmab (a feline-specific anti-nerve growth factor antibody) has transformed OA management by providing monthly injectable pain relief without the renal risks of NSAIDs.

What You Can Do

Schedule regular senior wellness exams (twice yearly from age 10) that include pain assessment
Learn the signs of feline chronic pain: reduced jumping, altered grooming, hiding, reduced play
Ask your vet about the Feline Grimace Scale and newer pain management options like Solensia
Address dental disease promptly — dental pain is a major, treatable quality-of-life issue in cats