Companion Animals

Companion Animal Pain Management Advances

Recent advances in multimodal pain management approaches for dogs and cats, improving quality of life for animals with chronic conditions.

Key Facts

Multimodal pain management combines drugs, rehabilitation, and environmental modification
NSAIDs remain first-line for most companion animal pain conditions
Monoclonal antibody therapies now available for osteoarthritis pain in cats and dogs
Rehabilitation therapy including hydrotherapy improves mobility and quality of life
Owner recognition of pain signs is a key barrier to effective treatment

Welfare Considerations

Undertreatment of chronic pain is a significant welfare problem in companion animals. Many animals live with preventable suffering because signs are misread or treatment not sought. Modern multimodal approaches can dramatically improve quality of life.

What You Can Do

Learn to recognize pain signs in your pets
Discuss multimodal pain management options with your veterinarian
Advocate for pain assessment as a routine part of veterinary consultations