The Neighborhood Vet Blog

Has your dog seemed a little more reserved lately,  or is your cat less interested in playing with their favorite toys? It can be easy to attribute these changes to aging or mood, but pets are experts at hiding discomfort. The good news is that there are plenty of subtle signals that can provide clues that your pet may be experiencing pain, and many treatment options to help alleviate this discomfort.

Why Pets Don’t Show Pain

Animals are hardwired to hide weakness. Out in the wild, showing pain could make them a target or slow down the group. Even though our pets have traded “the wild” for the couch, they still carry this instinct.

Everyday Clues Your Pet May Be Hurting

Pain does not always come with loud cries or limps. It often shows up in subtle changes. Here are common signs that deserve attention:

• Change in appetite or water intake
• Reluctance to play or difficulty moving
• Changes in grooming habits
• Shifts in personality
• Unusual vocalization

• Posture changes
• Sensitivity to touch
• Withdrawal from interaction

Since these signals are subtle, it can be easy to miss them, but they are quiet signs that your pet needs veterinary attention.

If you notice any of these changes, schedule a veterinary exam. Even if the signs seem minor, our veterinary team has the training and diagnostic tools to uncover the root cause. Pain may come from arthritis, dental disease, injury, infection, or even internal conditions that are not visually obvious.

Helping Pets Stay Comfortable at Home

While our veterinary team guides treatment, there are steps you can take at home to support your pet’s comfort:

• Track changes: Each day, jot down your pet’s eating habits, activity levels, and behavior. This record helps us spot patterns.
• Provide comfort: Provide soft, supportive bedding and a quiet place to rest away from the noise and daily hustle in your home.
• Follow veterinary instructions: Use medications, supplements, or special diets exactly as prescribed. Avoid over-the-counter human products, as many of them are unsafe for pets.

Living a Pain-Free Life

Your pet cannot say, “This hurts,” so you have to play detective. By noticing the small things, such as skipped meals, slower walks, and subtle posture shifts, you give them the gift of early care and faster relief.

If something feels off, trust your gut. Schedule a wellness exam and talk with our veterinary team. With the right care, your best friend can get back to living their comfortable, happy life!

Photo credit: Alice Cullen | Unsplash