Recognising Pain and Illness in Your Pet
As a pet owner, I know just how much we love our little friends and how we’ll go to great lengths to ensure they’re healthy and happy. However, our fur babies can’t use words to explain how they’re feeling, It’s up to us to notice when they might be in pain or not feeling well.
It’s important to know your pet’s normal behaviour. Any changes could be an indicator of discomfort or illness. Are they eating less? Maybe more? Has their energy level dropped? Are they sleeping more than usual? These could all be signs that your pet isn’t feeling their best.
Another subtle sign could be a change in their grooming habits. For example, cats are known for their meticulous grooming. If your feline friend stops taking care of himself, it could be a sign of discomfort or illness. Conversely, over-grooming or licking a specific area excessively could also indicate pain.
Make sure that you pay attention to any changes in their body posture or movement. A dog that’s usually bouncy and eager to play may be less active, or might not be able to jump onto their favourite couch anymore. Cats might stop jumping onto high surfaces, or you might notice a limp that wasn’t there before.
Look for any changes in their bathroom habits. Frequent urination, difficulty urinating, or blood in their urine could all be signs of illness. Similarly, changes in their stool, such as diarrhoea or constipation, could be cause for concern.
It’s important to remember that these are just a few examples of the subtle signs your pet might display if they’re in pain or ill. Each pet is unique, and their signs of discomfort can be too.
The key to recognising the signs of pain or illness in your pet is knowing their normal behaviour. Any changes, no matter how minor, should be noted and monitored.
It’s always a good idea to consult with your vet if you notice any changes in your pet’s behaviour, eating or bathroom habits, or if they seem to be in discomfort. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the health and wellbeing of our beloved pets.