How to Tell If Your Pet Is in Pain: Subtle Signs to Watch For

If our pets could simply tell us, “My legs are stiff and sore,” “My teeth hurt,” or “My back is aching,” life would be much easier for pet owners.

But they can't.

Animals often hide signs of discomfort, which means changes in behaviour, movement and daily habits can sometimes be the first clues that something isn't quite right.

Learning to recognise these subtle changes can help you seek appropriate advice sooner and prioritise your pet's comfort, mobility and wellbeing.

Signs Your Dog May Be in Pain

Dogs can show discomfort in many different ways. Look for changes from their normal behaviour, including:

  • Slowing down or becoming reluctant to go for walks

  • Hesitating before jumping, climbing stairs or getting into the car

  • Stiffness or changes in the way they move

  • Licking or chewing one particular area repeatedly

  • Becoming more irritable, clingy or withdrawn

  • Changes in appetite

  • Avoiding touch, grooming or being picked up

  • Changes in sleeping habits

Signs Your Cat May Be in Pain

Cats can be particularly good at hiding discomfort. Subtle changes may include:

  • Hiding or spending more time alone

  • Sleeping in a different or unusual place

  • Becoming less playful

  • Overgrooming or repeatedly licking one area

  • A greasy, matted or untidy coat

  • Changes in appetite

  • Becoming more irritable or withdrawn

  • Toileting outside the litter tray

  • Changes in their usual posture or movement

Even small changes in a cat's normal routine can be worth paying attention to.

Signs Your Horse May Be in Pain

Horses can also communicate discomfort through changes in behaviour and movement.

Possible signs include:

  • Reluctance to move forward or changes in behaviour under saddle

  • A shorter stride

  • Stiffness or uneven movement

  • Changes in posture or the way they stand

  • Frequently shifting weight

  • Pinning their ears or increased tail swishing

  • Becoming girthy or resistant to handling

  • Becoming harder to catch, groom or handle

  • Changes in performance or usual behaviour

A horse that suddenly becomes difficult to ride or handle shouldn't simply be labelled as “naughty”. Pain or physical discomfort can sometimes be behind a change in behaviour.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Pain?

If you notice a sudden or persistent change in your pet's behaviour, movement, appetite or daily routine, it is important to investigate the underlying cause.

Pain can have many possible causes, ranging from dental and joint problems to injuries, digestive issues and other health conditions.

A veterinary examination can help identify what may be causing the discomfort and whether further investigation or treatment is needed.

Natural Support for Comfort & Mobility

Once any underlying problems have been appropriately assessed, nutritional and natural support may form part of a broader holistic care plan.

Options available from Greenpet include: