Why Recognizing Pet Pain Matters

Pain in pets is often subtle but can have a major impact on their quality of life. At Animal Hospital Southwest in Fort Worth, we believe every pet deserves to live comfortably, and that starts with understanding how pain presents in dogs and cats—especially senior pets.

Unfortunately, pets instinctively hide pain. This survival behavior means owners must be extra observant. Whether it’s arthritis, dental disease, or an injury, identifying pain early can prevent suffering and slow progression of chronic issues.

Common Signs of Pain in Pets

Every pet experiences pain differently, but common signs include:

  • Limping or favoring a limb
  • Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or exercise
  • Whimpering, whining, or unusual vocalizations
  • Decreased appetite or changes in sleep patterns
  • Licking or chewing at one spot repeatedly
  • Changes in mood, hiding, or increased irritability

What’s Wrong? Common Pet Pain Signs is an excellent guide to help you recognize pain-related behavior.

Why Pets Conceal Pain

Pain concealment is a defense mechanism rooted in survival. In the wild, weakness could mean becoming prey. Today’s pets still carry those instincts, making it easy for pain to go unnoticed until it becomes severe.

This is especially important for older pets, where pain may stem from arthritis, degenerative joint disease, or age-related issues like cognitive dysfunction.

Pain in Dogs vs. Cats

Dogs

Dogs often display:

  • Limping
  • Slower movement
  • Panting when not hot
  • Irritability or withdrawal from touch

More details can be found in the Mobility Matters Guide – AAHA, which offers practical advice for managing pain and mobility issues in dogs.

Cats

Cats are masters at hiding discomfort. Subtle signs include:

  • Less grooming or a messy coat
  • Reduced appetite or activity
  • Avoiding stairs or furniture they once jumped on
  • Hiding more often or becoming unusually clingy

Senior Pet Care – AVMA and Understanding Your Senior Pet’s Life Stage both offer helpful insights into managing aging and pain in cats.

Modern Pain Relief Options: Librela and Solensia

At Animal Hospital Southwest, we’re proud to offer two groundbreaking pain relief options for pets:

  • Librela – A once-monthly injectable monoclonal antibody for dogs with osteoarthritis. It targets NGF (nerve growth factor), a key driver of chronic pain. Unlike NSAIDs, it provides targeted pain relief with fewer gastrointestinal side effects.
  • Solensia – A monthly injectable pain management treatment specifically for cats with osteoarthritis. It helps reduce inflammation and improve mobility with minimal stress for feline patients.

Both options have revolutionized the way we manage long-term pain in pets. Ask us if your pet is a candidate.

When to See Your Veterinarian

If your pet shows any signs of pain or discomfort—no matter how minor—early intervention is key. Don’t wait for pain to become severe. For urgent care or guidance, contact us.

Red flag symptoms include:

  • Inability to walk or stand
  • Crying when touched or moved
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control
  • Sudden, extreme behavioral changes

Diagnosing Pain: Tools and Techniques

We use advanced diagnostics to uncover the root of your pet’s pain, including:

  • Digital radiography (X-rays)
  • Bloodwork and urine analysis
  • Orthopedic and neurological evaluations

From there, we create custom care plans that may include:

We also help you create an arthritis-friendly home with tips on bedding, flooring, and feeding arrangements.

Preventing and Managing Pain Over Time

Pain prevention starts early and continues through regular monitoring. Here’s what we recommend:

See Supporting Your Senior Pet: AAHA Recommendations for guidance on proactive care as your pet ages.

We’re Here to Help

At Animal Hospital Southwest, we’re more than just a veterinary clinic—we’re your partner in helping your pet live a pain-free, joyful life.

If you’ve noticed behavior changes or just want a wellness check to ensure your pet is comfortable, reach out. Our experienced team is here to help with trusted diagnostics, advanced treatments like Librela and Solensia, and practical at-home guidance.

Request an appointment today.

Let us help your pet move better, feel better, and live better—because every pet deserves a life without pain.