If you own a pet, you want to ensure it is always happy and healthy. But determining when your beloved cat or dog has discomfort or pain can be hard. Your pet cannot tell what they may be going through. This is the reason you may want to educate yourself about the common signs of pain in pets. Recognizing these signs allows you to give your pet the care it needs and deserves. Also, you will know if it’s time to bring your pet to the nearest veterinary hospital in Woodbridge. This blog will tackle the different signs of pain and discomfort in pets.
Behavioral Changes
Your pain may be in pain when it displays changes in behavior. Your cat or dog may be more withdrawn, aggressive, or anxious. Typically, the pet that used to be friendly and sociable may avoid contact with anyone, including you. Also, your pet may show signs of pacing or restlessness and may require more attention.
Changes in Eating and Drinking Habits
If you notice that your pet’s eating and drinking habits, it may be experiencing discomfort or pain. This may be the case if it suddenly loses its appetite or just consumes small amounts of food or water. Likewise, increased thirst may indicate an underlying health problem.
Vocalization
When an animal is in pain, it instinctively vocalizes when experiencing pain. Your pet may excessively whine, groan, or whimper when in pain. Also, cats may meow more than before or show excessive grooming behavior. Although some vocalization in animals is normal, especially in response to a stimulus, persistent and strange vocalization must be investigated promptly.
Grooming Habit Changes
Pets tend to groom themselves. But if you notice that your cat or dog is suddenly reducing its grooming routine, this could mean an underlying problem. Usually, pets with pain are no longer interested in grooming themselves, resulting in a dull or dirty look. In addition, your pet may excessively lick some areas of its body to relieve its discomfort.
Posture and Movement
Pets who may be in pain show posture and movement changes. For instance, your pet may struggle to get up, climb stairs, or jump. They may also not want to take part in physical activities they used to enjoy. Also, it may hold its body in a tens or hunched position to protect the affected area. 
Sleeping Pattern Changes
Your pet’s sleeping patterns also offer clues to its well-being. Although pets sleep more than people, excessive sleep or restlessness while sleeping can indicate discomfort. If in pain, your pet may not be able to find a comfortable sleeping position, have a problem settling down, or wake up suddenly and frequently. Monitor the sleeping habits of your pet and speak with a vet if you notice changes.
Facial Expression Changes
Keep an eye on the facial expression of your pet as it can speak volumes on its comfort level. If in pain, your pet may look tense and have a furrowed brow. Also, a clenched jaw or squinting eye can indicate discomfort or pain. Your pet may show shallow or rapid breathing. Dogs in pain may lick their lips more often or display a furrowed forehead. Meanwhile, cats in pain may have a flattened look to their ears or dilated pupils. By understanding the normal facial expression of your cat or dog and monitoring for changes, you can identify signs of discomfort or pain.
Part of owning a pet is identifying signs of pain. Although the signs mentioned above can indicate discomfort, remember that pets may not overly express pain. This makes it important to bring your pet in for routine veterinary checkups. This way, your vet can check your pet for irregularities you may not notice yourself.