Companion Animals

Cat Chronic Pain Recognition and Management

Chronic pain is significantly underdiagnosed in cats because they hide signs effectively, but evidence-based tools and treatments now enable better welfare outcomes.

Key Facts

Osteoarthritis is estimated to affect over 90% of cats over 12 years old
Cats in chronic pain show subtle changes including reduced grooming, altered social interactions, and withdrawal
The Feline Grimace Scale is a validated tool for acute pain assessment in cats
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs require careful monitoring in cats due to renal sensitivity
Newer treatments including monoclonal antibodies targeting nerve growth factor offer improved pain control

Welfare Considerations

Cats are masters at concealing pain, leading to chronic pain going unrecognised and untreated for months or years. This results in unnecessary suffering that owners are unaware of. Identifying chronic pain requires observing changes in behaviour, activity, and posture rather than obvious distress signals. Once identified and treated, the improvement in quality of life is often dramatic and rewarding for both cats and their owners.

What You Can Do

Schedule regular senior wellness checks to assess your older cat for chronic pain
Learn to recognise subtle pain signs including reduced jumping, altered grooming, and hiding
Discuss a therapeutic trial of pain medication if your cat shows possible pain signs
Consider home mobility modifications including ramps, low-sided litter trays, and raised food bowls
Ask your vet about newer anti-NGF treatments if standard medications are not tolerated