8 Ways to Tell If Your Cat is in Pain - Some May Surprise You!

 

8 Ways to Tell If Your Cat is in Pain

By cutenessiscats • Updated: September 8, 2025 • Read time: ~9–11 minutes

Cats are masters of disguise. Unlike dogs, who often whine or seek help when they’re hurting, cats instinctively hide signs of weakness. In the wild, this behavior protects them from predators. At home, it means that cat owners must pay close attention to subtle clues if they want to catch health issues early. This article outlines eight reliable signs that your cat may be in pain, along with simple steps you can take to help them feel better.

1. Changes in Appetite

A healthy cat usually has a consistent appetite. If your cat suddenly eats much less, refuses food, or only picks at meals, it can signal mouth pain, dental disease, nausea, or internal discomfort. On the other hand, excessive hunger can also indicate underlying issues such as hyperthyroidism.

✅ Tip: Track your cat’s eating habits daily. If appetite changes last longer than 24–48 hours, consult your vet immediately.

2. Altered Grooming Habits

Cats take pride in their grooming. A sudden lack of grooming can mean arthritis (difficulty bending), oral pain, or general illness. Overgrooming or constant licking in a certain area may signal localized pain or skin discomfort.

✅ Tip: Check for mats, dandruff, or bald patches. Consistent changes in grooming warrant a vet visit.

3. Hiding or Avoiding Contact

If your usually social cat suddenly avoids family, hides under furniture, or isolates in quiet rooms, it may be a red flag. Cats in pain often retreat to safe spaces where they feel less vulnerable.

✅ Tip: Monitor hiding behavior closely. If it lasts more than a day or two, schedule a check-up.

4. Unusual Posture or Movement

Cats experiencing pain may move stiffly, limp, or hold their bodies differently. They might hunch, keep their heads low, or avoid jumping onto furniture they previously managed easily.

✅ Tip: Watch how your cat climbs, jumps, or lies down. Any stiffness, limping, or hesitation may signal arthritis, injury, or abdominal pain.

5. Changes in Litter Box Habits

Struggling to use the litter box can indicate pain. Cats with urinary issues may strain or cry out, while arthritis may make it difficult to step into a high-sided box. Accidents outside the box often mean something is wrong physically, not just behaviorally.

✅ Tip: Keep litter boxes clean and accessible. If your cat suddenly stops using the box or shows signs of strain, contact your vet.

6. Vocalization and Sounds

Some cats become more vocal when in pain — meowing, crying, or even growling when touched. Others may become unusually quiet. Changes in the “tone” of their sounds can also be significant clues.

✅ Tip: Pay attention to new or unusual sounds, especially if paired with behavior changes.

7. Altered Sleeping Patterns

Cats already sleep a lot, but pain can alter their normal rhythms. A cat in discomfort may sleep far more, appear restless, or frequently change positions as if unable to get comfortable.

✅ Tip: Keep a log of your cat’s sleep. Drastic increases or disrupted rest cycles should be checked.

8. Facial Expressions and Body Language

Cats have subtle facial cues: squinted eyes, flattened ears, and whiskers pulled back can indicate distress. A cat in pain may also swish its tail aggressively or keep its body tense.

✅ Tip: Learn to read your cat’s normal body language. Deviations — such as tense muscles or unusual ear/tail positions — are signs worth noting.

What To Do If You Suspect Pain

If you see one or more of these signs, don’t wait for them to resolve on their own. Cats rarely “shake off” pain without intervention. A veterinarian can diagnose the root cause, provide pain relief, and prevent issues from worsening.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can cats fake being fine?

Yes. Cats instinctively mask pain as a survival mechanism. This is why owners need to be proactive about observing subtle changes.

Should I give my cat human pain medication?

No. Many human medications (ibuprofen, acetaminophen) are toxic to cats. Always consult your vet before giving any treatment.

How often should I check for pain signs?

Daily. Small daily observations of appetite, grooming, movement, and mood can help you catch problems early.

Are senior cats more likely to experience pain?

Yes. Older cats are at higher risk of arthritis, dental issues, and chronic illness. Routine vet visits become even more important with age.

Final Thoughts

Pain in cats can be silent but devastating. As a loving owner, your attention to subtle changes in behavior, movement, and expression can make all the difference. By acting early, you not only prevent suffering but also strengthen the bond of trust and care that makes sharing life with a cat so special.

Written by cutenessiscats