Cat Pain Signs & Relief 2025: Vet-Approved Comfort Tips 🩺🛏️

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Cats are incredibly good at hiding pain. 😿 Unlike dogs, who often whimper or limp, cats tend to suffer in silence. This means pain often goes unnoticed until it becomes serious — especially in senior cats.

In this article, we’ll break down the subtle signs of pain in cats, what causes it, and how to support your cat’s comfort with vet-approved solutions like orthopedic beds and environmental changes.

🔍 Common Causes of Pain in Cats 

• 🦴 Arthritis – common in cats over 8 years old 
• 🦷 Dental disease – tooth resorption, gingivitis 
• 🧠 Injury or trauma – even minor ones can cause lingering pain 
• 🩺 Chronic illness – kidney disease, pancreatitis, cancer 
• 💔 Stress-related inflammation – including FLUTD or behavioral changes

✅ Early detection can prevent long-term discomfort and increase quality of life.

🚩 Signs Your Cat Might Be in Pain

1. 🛏️ Changes in Sleeping Habits 

• Sleeping less (restlessness = discomfort)
  
• Sleeping more (to escape pain) 
• Refusing to use usual bed or perch

2. 🐾 Mobility Changes 

• Hesitating or refusing to jump 
• Stiff walking or limping
  
• Increased difficulty using stairs or litter box

3. 🍽️ Appetite or Grooming Decline

• Not grooming certain areas (painful to twist)
  
• Eating less or dropping food (possible dental pain)

4. 😾 Behavior & Personality Shifts

• Hiding more than usual 
• Increased aggression or irritability 
• Loss of interest in play or affection

5. 😿 Vocalizing or Subtle Whimpers 

• Growling when touched 
• Excessive meowing during movement or use of the litter box

If you notice 2 or more of these changes, your cat might be experiencing chronic discomfort.

🛏️ Vet-Approved Ways to Help a Cat in Pain

1. Create an Orthopedic Comfort Zone 

• 3-in-1 Cube Cave – adjust for low entry or flat recovery mat 
• Uluru Felt Cave – retains warmth and cushions sore joints 
• XL Felt Pad – pairs perfectly with heated pads or vet wraps

Felt is firm yet soft — ideal for cats that need support without sinkage. Plus, it's quiet and secure for cats in stress or recovery mode.

2. Talk to Your Vet 

• Ask about cat-safe pain relief like meloxicam, gabapentin, or joint supplements
  
• Request a pain assessment if your cat is over 7 years old

3. Support Low-Stress Environments

• Use ramps or stools to avoid jumping 
• Place beds in warm, quiet corners 
• Offer gentle wand toy play to maintain mobility

💬 Vet Quote: Dr. Duncan Houston

"Pain in cats is often mistaken for laziness or age. But most of the time, they're trying to tell you something. A better bed, a calmer space, and the right treatment can make a world of difference."   — Dr. Duncan Houston, BVSc

🛒 Shop Comfort Essentials for Cats in Pain 

• 🔁 3-in-1 Adjustable Cube Cave 
• 🌋 Uluru Supportive Felt Cave 
• 🛏️ Flat Orthopedic Pad

🌿 Explore all vet-approved pain relief products here