As veterinary medicine continues to advance, our understanding of chronic pain in pets has grown significantly. Just like humans, dogs and cats can suffer from long-term pain due to arthritis, cancer, dental disease, past injuries, or other chronic health conditions. Unfortunately, many pets suffer silently—especially cats, who are masters at hiding discomfort.
Recognizing and managing chronic pain is essential not only for prolonging life but also for improving its quality.
Recognizing Chronic Pain in Pets
Chronic pain is often subtle and progressive. Pets may not cry out or limp obviously. Instead, look for these changes in behavior:
Dogs
- Reluctance to walk, run, or climb stairs
- Difficulty rising from rest
- Decreased interest in play
- Changes in appetite
- Irritability or aggression when touched - especially the hind end with back pain or the head with dental pain
- Licking or chewing at joints or paws - especially chronic allergies
Cats
- Decreased grooming or matted coat
- Hesitation to jump onto furniture
- Hiding more often
- Changes in litter box habits
- Reduced appetite or activity
- Unusual vocalization or aggression
If you notice any of these signs, don’t dismiss them as simply “getting old.” Aging may be natural, but pain is not.
Diagnosing Chronic Pain
Your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical exam, and may recommend:
- Orthopedic or neurologic evaluations
- X-rays or advanced imaging, including dental radiographs
- Bloodwork to rule out underlying conditions
- Pain scoring tools or mobility assessments
A proper diagnosis is crucial before starting any long-term pain management plan.
Treatment Options for Chronic Pain
Modern veterinary medicine offers a multimodal approach—meaning several methods are combined to target pain from multiple angles. Treatment plans are tailored to each pet, considering their age, species, health status, and lifestyle.
1. Medications
- NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): Commonly used in dogs for osteoarthritis; newer options are becoming safer for long-term use. Carprofen (Rimadyl), Meloxicam (Metacam), Deraxocib (Deramaxx) and Rirocoxib (Previxoc) are all examples of NSAID drugs for dogs.
- Gabapentin: Especially useful for nerve pain and common in cats
- Monoclonal Antibody Therapy: Monthly injections are available for both dogs (Librela) and cats (Solensia).
- Joint supplements (glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3s): Support joint health and reduce inflammation over time.
Always consult your vet before giving any medication—some human drugs (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) are toxic to pets.
2. Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation
Therapeutic exercises, hydrotherapy, massage, and range-of-motion exercises can help maintain mobility and reduce pain.
3. Laser, Electromagnetic Field, and Shockwave Therapy
These non-invasive treatments can be especially helpful for chronic joint pain, back pain, and even post-surgical discomfort.
4. Weight Management
One of the most overlooked aspects of pain control. Extra weight puts stress on joints and can worsen arthritis. A healthy weight can drastically improve mobility and comfort.
5. Environmental Modifications
- Provide non-slip rugs for traction
- Use ramps or stairs to access furniture
- Offer orthopedic beds
- Keep litter boxes easily accessible for older cats
6. Procedures
Medical procedures, such as joint injections and oral surgery for advanced dental disease can help to control or eliminate causes of chronic pain for some patients.
Monitoring and Adjusting Treatment
Chronic pain management is ongoing. Pets should be evaluated regularly to adjust medications and therapies as needed. What works well today might need modification six months from now.
We offer pain management rechecks, house calls, and telehealth options to support older pets living with chronic pain.
Your Role as a Pet Owner
You are your pet’s voice. Monitor changes, keep a log of symptoms, and stay in touch with your vet. Ask about pain scoring tools, lifestyle changes, or even integrative therapies that could benefit your pet.
Chronic pain in dogs and cats is more common than we once believed, but it’s also more manageable than ever before. With proper care, compassion, and veterinary support, your pet can enjoy a comfortable, active, and happy life—even with chronic conditions.
If you think your pet may be in pain, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian today. Early intervention can make all the difference. 970-963-2371