Signs Your Pet is in Pain or Unwell

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Animals cannot tell us what is wrong, they hide pain which means by the time we see that something is wrong it is likely the pet has been uncomfortable for some time. Knowing your pet and what is normal for them is key to the early detection that something is wrong, sometimes this can mean the difference between life and death, it will always reduce the length of time that your animal is in pain and suffering silently.

Subtle signs your pet may be unwell or in pain

Lethargy, being quieter than usual, sleeping more than normal.
Hiding away.
Changes in appetite e.g. eating less, eating more slowly, eating more than usual.
Reluctant to go out for a walk, go outside.
Changes in the way they walk e.g. hunched abdomen, walking more slowly.
Reluctant or hesitation in jumping up on furniture, fences, climbing up or down stairs more slowly.
Any unusual behaviour i.e. aggression, fear, vocalisation, adopting odd mannerisms.
Inappropriate toileting e.g. peeing in areas around the house which is something they had never done before.
Changes in toileting patterns e.g. the dog that has one long pee on its walk is suddenly having lots of pees.
Drinking more than usual.
Coat changes.
Third eyelids visible.

Any change in behaviour could be a sign your pet is unwell or in pain, it is quite easy to rationalise or justify why they are doing something different; you need to rule out a clinical reason first.