Signs of Pain in Cats: How to Spot Hidden Discomfort
Cats evolved as both predators and prey. Showing weakness could make them a target, so they hide pain. A cat in discomfort may not cry or limp. Instead, you must notice what has changed. Learning the signs can help you get help early and spare your cat suffering.
Why cats hide pain
Wild ancestors survived by looking healthy. That instinct persists in house cats. Many cats stay quiet, retreat and carry on as best they can. Owners often put changes down to age or mood. A cat that is in pain is not being lazy or grumpy. It is in need.
Behavior changes
- Hiding. Seeking out quiet corners. See why do cats hide.
- Less activity. Jumping less, sleeping more, not playing.
- Appetite changes. Eating less, or dropping food, which may signal dental pain. See cat dental disease.
- Litter box changes. Going outside the box, because getting in hurts, or straining. See why is my cat peeing outside the litter box.
- Aggression or irritability. Hissing or biting when touched. See aggression between cats.
- Grooming changes. Less grooming, with a greasy or matted coat, or overgrooming one area. See why do cats overgroom.
- Vocalizing. More meowing, growling or yowling, or an unusual quiet.
- Clinginess, or the opposite, withdrawal.
Posture and movement
- Hunched or "meatloaf" posture with tucked paws
- Stiff walk, limping or reluctance to move
- Tense belly
- Lying in odd positions or unable to settle
- Head held low
- Difficulty jumping, using stairs or climbing. See arthritis in cats.
- Sitting by the water bowl without drinking
Facial signs: the Grimace Scale
Researchers developed the Feline Grimace Scale to score pain from the face. Look for:
- Ears that flatten, rotate outward or lie wide apart. See cat ear positions.
- Eyes that squint or are partly closed
- Muzzle that looks tense, with a rounded or pinched look
- Whiskers held stiffly, pulled forward or flat against the face
- Head position, lower than the shoulders
A relaxed cat has a soft face, open eyes and ears forward.
Other signs
- Panting or open-mouth breathing, which is an emergency
- Shaking or trembling
- Dilated pupils
- Drooling
- Excessive licking of a body part
- Fast breathing
- Not responding to usual attention
What causes pain
Common sources include dental disease, arthritis, injuries, urinary problems, abscesses, gut disease, cancer and surgery. See feline idiopathic cystitis and cancer in cats.
What to do
- Do not wait. Contact your vet if you notice changes lasting more than a day or two.
- Record video at home, since cats often act normally in the clinic.
- Note details, such as appetite, litter box use, activity and posture.
- Handle gently, and avoid painful areas.
- Never give human pain relievers. Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin and naproxen can be fatal to cats. See cat poisoning what to do.
- Follow your vet's pain plan, with safe medications designed for cats.
Emergency signs
Go to a vet at once if your cat is crying out, cannot move, breathes with an open mouth, cannot pee, has a swollen belly or collapses. See the emergency warning signs guide.
Helping at home
- Provide soft bedding and warmth.
- Make food, water and litter easy to reach.
- Keep the home quiet.
- Reduce stress, and keep routines stable. See cat-friendly home setup.
- Help with grooming gently.
Pain after surgery or dental work
Cats recovering from surgery need pain relief, and signs of discomfort include hiding, not eating and licking the wound. Follow your vet's pain plan. Pain control helps cats heal faster and eat sooner. Contact the clinic if you are worried.
Using a pain diary
A simple daily score for appetite, activity, grooming and mood helps you notice slow change. Many vets provide forms for mobility and quality of life. Bring your notes to checkups.
Kittens
Kittens in pain may cry, refuse milk or become quiet and lethargic. They can decline very fast, so contact a vet quickly. See kitten first vet visit.
Talking to your vet about pain
Describe exactly what you see and when it started. Ask which pain medications are safe for your cat, how long to give them and what side effects to watch for. Never adjust doses on your own, and report any change in appetite or litter habits.
Seniors
Older cats are especially likely to have hidden pain. See senior cat care guide. Regular checkups catch problems early. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic, and see cat vet visit costs.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my cat is in pain?
Look for changes from normal, such as hiding, less grooming, reduced activity or litter box problems.
Do cats purr when in pain?
Sometimes. Purring can be self-soothing, so do not assume a purring cat is comfortable.
Can I give my cat ibuprofen?
Never. It is toxic. Ask your vet for safe options.
What is the Feline Grimace Scale?
A tool that scores facial expression changes to assess pain in cats.
Sources and further reading
Health information changes as research does. These organizations publish guidance worth reading alongside our articles.
- American Veterinary Medical Association: pet owner resourcesPolicy-level guidance from the national veterinary association.
- CDC Healthy Pets, Healthy PeoplePublic-health advice on pets, zoonotic disease and safe handling.
- American Animal Hospital AssociationAccreditation body and practice guidelines for companion-animal hospitals.
Tailwisp is independent and written under our editorial policy. Learn who we are, or browse all cat guides.
This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every cat is different. If your cat is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.