Unknown and Invisible Pain
Animals are able to feel pain as much as humans. However, sometimes it's not always possible to see and understand when our pets are suffering. Many animals only show their pain to a very limited extent. For example, prey animals like rabbits and guinea pigs tend to hide their pain, as they would in the wild. This is because showing signs of pain, such as vocalizing, would attract predators and increase their chance of being caught and killed. It is therefore often a challenge for someone to recognize when their pet is in pain, especially when there are no identifiable causes, making it vitally important to keep a close eye on our pets behaviors.
Animals Can Often Hide Pain. Watch Out for the Signs!
Changes in posture & movement
posture (e.g. curved posture) & movement (e.g. difficulties getting up)
Change in
eating and drinking behavior
eating and drinking behavior
(e.g. loss of appetite, excessive drinking, increased or decreased urination or passing stools)
Changes in behavior
(e.g. seclusion, increased sleeping, increased vocalizing, sudden aggression or agitation, change in house training)
Change in
appearance
appearance
(e.g. dull coat or eyes, dry or flaky nose, brittle broken claws)
How to Protect Your Pet and Minimize Risk
There are multiple things you can do to minimize the risk of you pet experiencing any pain
