Warning Signs Your Cat Is In Pain

Cats are notorious for their independence. Strange cat behaviors are commonplace in any feline-friendly home, so it can be difficult to determine when your cat is acting differently because he or she is in pain. Your friends at Hampton Veterinary Hospital are serious about feline health, and we want to help you determine when your kitty might need a little veterinary help. Keep reading to learn about some of the top warning signs your cat is in pain.

Litter Box Problems

Using a litter box is a pretty innate behavior for a cat, so if yours is suddenly doing his business outside the box, you can be sure there is something going on. Physical pain can make it difficult to climb in and out of the litter box. If your cat is suddenly avoiding the box, it could be a sign of:

• Knee pain
• Hip pain
• Joint pain 
• Spine pain
• Pain when urinating 

Pay attention to your cat’s litter box habits, and if his behavior suddenly changes for more than a few days, schedule an appointment just to be sure everything looks good with his health.

Increased Urination

Another change in bathroom behavior that could clue you in if your cat is in pain is increased cat urination. Cats typically stick to pretty regular schedules when it comes to eating and drinking, so a sudden increase in urination could be a sign of an underlying issue. Frequent urination could be an indicator of bladder stones, inflammation, infection, or a painful obstruction. It could also be a side effect of diabetes, kidney disease, or hypothyroidism. Increased urination is usually seen with increased cat thirst, which is another side effect of the above-mentioned disorders.

Changes in Grooming Habits

Cats are fastidious groomers, so if they suddenly stop grooming as often or avoid certain parts of the body, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong. If your cat is overgrooming one part of her body, this could also be a sign that she is experiencing pain. Talk to your veterinarian if you notice any significant changes in your kitty’s grooming habits.

Lethargy or Other Behavioral Changes

If your cat is normally energetic and is suddenly sleeping more and avoiding physical activity, he might be trying to tell you he is in pain. Pay attention to your cat’s behavior and if these changes last for more than a few days, it might be time to schedule a veterinary visit. 

At Hampton Veterinary Hospital, we want all our feline patients to always feel their best. From wellness visits to surgery, our list of veterinary services is designed to keep your pets in top health. To learn more, please call (603) 926-7978.