Signs of Pain

The most common sources of chronic pain in cats, as in humans, are the lower back (lumbosacral disc disease) and the joints (osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis).

How can we tell if a cat is suffering? We use a combination of behavioural changes and a physical examination. While altered behaviour can indicate pain, it is not a definitive marker. Like us, behaviour naturally changes with age and can be influenced by anxiety or illness.

It is important to differentiate between pain and the general effects of ageing. Older cats may naturally experience a loss of strength and stamina, or a shift in temperament, without necessarily being painful. As treatments for chronic pain—such as surgery and long-term medication—carry their own risks, making an accurate distinction is essential.

Big Data

The following data is derived from 1,240 cats whose families considered normal. The results illustrate how mood, tolerance of handling, and the ability to run or jump are significantly different in older cats.