Cats are masters at hiding pain, a survival adaptation that leaves them chronically undertreated. Learning to recognize subtle pain signs enables earlier intervention and better welfare outcomes.
Feline pain undertreatment is one of the most significant welfare problems in companion animal medicine. The evolutionary imperative to hide weakness means cats suppress overt pain signals until the condition is severe. Owners who have never seen their cat show obvious pain assume it is not present — but the subtle behavioral changes that indicate chronic pain are there if owners know how to look. Reduced jumping to favorite heights, hesitation before stepping into the litter box, reduced self-grooming of the lower back, and decreased social engagement are all signs of pain that should prompt veterinary assessment. Effective pain management options including meloxicam, gabapentin, and injectable anti-NGF treatment can dramatically improve quality of life.