09/02/2026
🐾 September is Animal Pain Awareness Month! 🐾
Did you know that pets don’t always show pain in obvious ways? Unlike people, our dogs and cats can’t tell us when something hurts, and many animals are instinctively good at hiding signs of pain.
That’s why it’s important to pay attention to small changes in behavior or routine.
Some signs your pet may be experiencing pain include:
🐶 Reluctance to walk, run, jump, or use stairs
🐱 Hiding more than usual or becoming less social
🛏️ Difficulty getting up, lying down, or finding a comfortable position
🍽️ Changes in appetite or drinking
😴 Sleeping more or seeming unusually tired
🧸 Decreased interest in play or favorite activities
😾 Changes in mood, such as irritability or aggression
🧼 Changes in grooming habits
🚽 Changes in bathroom habits
💨 Panting, restlessness, trembling, or other unusual behaviors
Pain can be acute, such as pain from an injury or surgery, or chronic, such as pain associated with arthritis or other long-term conditions.
The good news? Your pet doesn't have to live with pain. There are many ways veterinarians can help manage pain and improve a pet’s comfort and quality of life.
❤️ If you notice changes in your pet, don’t assume they’re simply “getting old.” Changes in mobility, behavior, appetite, or daily routines may be signs that something is bothering them.
When in doubt, give us a call. Your pet’s comfort matters! 🐾
