How to Tell If Your Cat Is in Pain (And What to Do About It)

Cats are mysterious creatures — dignified, composed, and often stoic. While that calm presence is part of what we love about them, it can also make it difficult to recognize when something is wrong. Unlike dogs, cats rarely whimper, limp obviously, or vocalize their pain. Instead, they quietly adapt, mask discomfort, and try to carry on as if nothing is happening.

This makes it especially important for cat owners to know the subtle signs of pain. Whether it’s a mild toothache or a serious internal issue, your cat is counting on you to notice the clues. Here's how to read between the purrs and pick up on signs your feline friend may be hurting — and what you should do about it.

Why Cats Hide Pain

In the wild, showing pain or weakness could mean vulnerability to predators. Domestic cats have inherited this same instinct: when something hurts, they often suffer in silence to avoid appearing weak.

This survival trait means you won’t always hear or see obvious symptoms — but that doesn’t mean they aren’t experiencing discomfort. You just have to know what to look for.

Common Signs of Pain in Cats

Here are key behavioral and physical signs that may indicate your cat is in pain:

• Changes in movement: Hesitating to jump, slower climbing, stiffness, limping, or reluctance to move.
• Hiding more than usual: A normally social cat who starts hiding may be feeling unwell.
• Loss of appetite: Skipping meals or showing little interest in food can signal dental or internal discomfort.
• Unusual grooming: Over-grooming (especially one area), lack of grooming, or fur that looks dull or messy.
• Vocal changes: Increased meowing, growling, or hissing — or a sudden silence in a normally vocal cat.
• Changes in posture: Arched back, tucked legs, or a hunched sitting position.
• Increased aggression or irritability: Cats in pain may swat, hiss, or avoid contact when they normally wouldn’t.
• Changes in litter box habits: Avoiding the box, missing it, or appearing uncomfortable while urinating or defecating.

Any one of these signs on its own might not be serious, but multiple changes — especially sudden ones — should raise red flags.

Common Causes of Pain in Cats

Cats can experience pain from a wide variety of conditions. Here are some of the most common:

• Dental disease: Tooth decay, abscesses, and gum disease can cause significant oral pain — often without obvious signs.
• Arthritis: Particularly common in older cats, arthritis leads to joint stiffness, decreased movement, and general discomfort.
• Injuries: Falls, bites, sprains, or cuts — even indoor cats can experience accidental trauma.
• Urinary tract infections or blockages: These can be life-threatening and often cause painful urination, vocalizing in the litter box, or accidents.
• Digestive issues: Constipation, bloating, or internal blockages may show up as lethargy or decreased appetite.
• Chronic illness: Kidney disease, diabetes, or cancer may cause pain over time, especially in advanced stages.

What to Do If You Think Your Cat Is in Pain

If you notice a combination of the symptoms listed above, especially if the change is sudden or severe, contact your veterinarian. Do not attempt to treat your cat’s pain with human medications — many common drugs (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) are toxic to cats.

Here are steps you can take:

• Document what you’re seeing: Write down behavior changes, eating patterns, and any physical signs.
• Contact your vet: Describe the changes clearly. They may recommend an in-person visit, bloodwork, or X-rays.
• Follow care instructions: Whether it’s pain medication, rest, or changes in environment, follow treatment plans closely.
• Monitor recovery: Continue watching for signs of improvement or worsening pain after treatment begins.

When It’s an Emergency

Call your vet or an emergency clinic immediately if you notice any of the following:

• Labored or open-mouth breathing
• Crying out in pain repeatedly
• Inability to walk or dragging limbs
• Severe lethargy or unresponsiveness
• Bloody urine, stool, or vomiting

Can Cats Recover From Pain Easily?

Many types of feline pain can be managed or treated with great success — especially if caught early. Cats are resilient and adaptive, and with proper care, they can bounce back remarkably well.

Veterinarians today also offer a variety of feline-safe pain relief options, including anti-inflammatories, laser therapy, joint supplements, and specialized diets.

How to Keep Your Cat Comfortable at Home

• Offer soft, accessible resting spots — especially for older cats who may struggle with jumping.
• Use a heated bed or blanket for joint pain and general comfort.
• Minimize stress and noise while your cat recovers.
• Keep litter boxes clean and easy to reach — avoid high sides or distant rooms.
• Provide gentle interaction and companionship without overstimulating them.

Listening With Your Heart

One of the hardest parts of caring for cats is that they can’t tell us when something hurts. But they do show us — in their eyes, in their routines, in their quiet retreats. When you learn to watch closely, you begin to understand the language beneath the silence.

And by listening — with your eyes, your hands, and your heart — you give your cat the greatest gift: comfort, care, and the safety of being truly seen.

Caring for a cat means noticing the little things. Ready to meet one who needs a gentle home?