Signs Your Cat Is in Pain

Cats are very good at hiding pain. In the wild, showing weakness could make an animal vulnerable, and many pet cats still keep discomfort hidden until it becomes more obvious. This can make it difficult for owners to know when something is wrong.

Learning to spot the early signs of pain in cats can help you act sooner and get the right support for your pet. Some signs are subtle, such as sleeping more or becoming less sociable, while others may be more noticeable, such as limping, crying out, or struggling to jump.

In this guide, we explain how cats may show pain, what symptoms to look out for, and when it is important to contact your veterinary surgeon.

This article is intended for general guidance only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or showing concerning symptoms, please contact your veterinary surgeon.

Why cats often hide pain

Unlike people, cats cannot tell us when something hurts. They may also continue eating, grooming, or moving around even when they are uncomfortable. Because of this, pain in cats is often mistaken for normal ageing, a change in mood, or a temporary off day.

Pain can be caused by a wide range of problems, including:

• Arthritis or joint stiffness
• Dental disease
• Injuries such as sprains, bites, or falls
• Urinary problems
• Digestive upset
• Skin irritation or wounds
• Ear or eye conditions
• Underlying illness or infection

If your cat seems different in any way that lasts more than a day or two, it is worth paying closer attention.

Common signs your cat may be in pain

Changes in behaviour

One of the first clues is often a change in your cat’s usual behaviour. Cats in pain may become quieter, hide more, or seem less interested in attention. Some become irritable and may not want to be touched, especially in certain areas.

You might notice your cat:

• Hiding away more than usual
• Avoiding being picked up or stroked
• Becoming less playful
• Seeming withdrawn or unusually quiet
• Growling, hissing, or swiping when handled

If your cat suddenly seems out of character, pain is one possible reason.

Changes in movement

Discomfort often affects the way a cat moves. They may become stiff, reluctant to jump, or less willing to use stairs. Some cats limp, while others simply move more slowly or carefully than normal.

• Limping or favouring one leg
• Stiffness after resting
• Hesitating before jumping up or down
• Difficulty using the litter tray if the sides are high
• Sleeping in easier-to-reach places

Older cats with arthritis may show these signs gradually. Supportive care, weight management, and vet-prescribed treatment can all help. If your cat has already been diagnosed with a painful condition, you may be able to order treatment through our cat prescription products collection once you have a valid prescription from your veterinary surgeon.

Changes in facial expression and posture

Cats in pain may hold themselves differently. You may notice a tense body, flattened ears, narrowed eyes, or a hunched posture. Some cats sit very still for long periods because movement makes them uncomfortable.

Look out for:

• Squinting or partially closed eyes
• Ears turned sideways or flattened
• A tucked-up or hunched posture
• Tension in the face or body
• Tail held differently than usual

These signs can be easy to miss, especially if they come and go.

Changes in eating, drinking, or grooming

Pain can affect daily habits. A cat with dental pain may approach food but seem reluctant to eat. A sore or stiff cat may stop grooming properly, leading to a scruffy coat. Some cats may overgroom one area if it is painful or irritated.

• Reduced appetite or dropping food from the mouth
• Dribbling or bad breath
• Drinking more or less than usual
• Poor coat condition from reduced grooming
• Excessive licking of one area

If you are concerned about mouth discomfort, it may help to learn more about supportive options in our cat dental products range, but any ongoing dental pain should be assessed by a veterinary surgeon.

Changes in litter tray habits

A cat in pain may stop using the litter tray as normal. This can happen if squatting is uncomfortable, if climbing into the tray hurts, or if there is pain linked to the bladder or digestive system.

• Straining to urinate or pass faeces
• Passing urine more frequently
• Crying when using the litter tray
• Toileting outside the tray
• Blood in the urine

Urinary problems in cats can become serious quickly, especially in male cats. If your cat is straining, producing little or no urine, or seems distressed, contact a veterinary surgeon urgently.

Signs of pain in specific conditions

Arthritis and joint pain

Arthritis is common in older cats, but it often goes unnoticed. Rather than obvious limping, you may simply see less jumping, reduced activity, or difficulty getting comfortable.

Helpful support may include vet advice, weight control, and joint support products. You can browse our cat joint care and cat supplements collections for supportive options, but always check with your veterinary surgeon before starting anything new, especially if your cat is on other medication.

Dental pain

Dental disease is a very common cause of pain in cats. Signs may include bad breath, pawing at the mouth, eating more slowly, favouring one side of the mouth, or refusing dry food.

Because cats often continue eating despite discomfort, dental pain can be overlooked for quite a while. A vet examination is the best way to assess the problem safely.

Skin, ears, and eyes

Skin irritation, ear infections, and eye problems can all be painful. A cat may shake their head, scratch repeatedly, keep one eye closed, or avoid having their face touched.

Depending on the problem, your vet may prescribe treatment. We also stock a range of cat ear products, cat eye products, and cat skin and coat products for ongoing care where appropriate.

When to contact a veterinary surgeon urgently

Some signs of pain need prompt veterinary attention. Contact your veterinary practice as soon as possible if your cat:

• Cries out suddenly or repeatedly
• Has difficulty breathing
• Cannot stand or walk normally
• Has been in an accident or fall
• Is straining to urinate or not passing urine
• Stops eating for more than 24 hours
• Seems very lethargic, collapsed, or unresponsive
• Has a swollen abdomen or obvious injury

If in doubt, it is always safest to speak to a veterinary professional.

What not to give a cat for pain

Never give your cat human painkillers unless specifically instructed by a veterinary surgeon. Medicines such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, and aspirin can be extremely dangerous to cats, even in small amounts.

Only use pain relief that has been prescribed for your cat, at the correct dose and for the correct length of time. Responsible medication use is important for both safety and effective treatment.

If your veterinary surgeon has prescribed medication, you can find information about ordering through our How to Order a Prescription Medicine page, or visit our Prescription FAQs for more guidance.

How to help a cat who may be in pain

While you arrange veterinary advice, there are a few gentle steps you can take at home:

• Keep your cat warm, quiet, and comfortable
• Place food, water, and the litter tray within easy reach
• Avoid handling sore areas unnecessarily
• Monitor eating, drinking, movement, and toileting
• Write down any changes to share with your vet

For cats recovering from illness or managing a long-term condition, supportive products such as soft bedding, easily accessible litter trays, and appropriate nutritional support may also help. You can browse our wider cat collection for everyday healthcare products and supplies.

How Vetscriptions can help

At Vetscriptions, we are founded and run by vets, and we understand how worrying it can be when your cat is not quite themselves. We offer genuine pet medicines and healthcare products, including prescription treatments when prescribed by your veterinary surgeon, as well as helpful everyday support for ongoing care.

If your cat has been diagnosed with a condition and you need prescribed treatment, you can browse our cat pain relief products and other prescription medicines. If you are unsure about the ordering process, our team and online guidance can help make things straightforward.

Conclusion

Pain in cats is not always obvious, but small changes in behaviour, movement, grooming, appetite, or litter tray habits can all be important clues. Trust your instincts if your cat seems different. Early veterinary advice can make a real difference, whether the problem is minor or something that needs prompt treatment.

If your cat is showing signs of pain, speak to your veterinary surgeon for advice and diagnosis. If treatment is prescribed, we are here to help you order responsibly and conveniently, with a wide range of genuine medicines and cat health products available through Vetscriptions.

To learn more, explore our cat health collection, read our prescription guidance, or contact us if you need help with an order. At Vetscriptions, we are here to support you in looking after your cat’s health with confidence and care.