Learn to Recognize the Subtle Signs of Suffering and Support Your Pet with Confidence
Pets don’t complain the way humans do. They don’t moan, point, or request help with words. Instead, they whisper their discomfort — in posture, behavior, and subtle changes we might mistake for “just getting older.”
But pain in senior pets isn’t inevitable — and it should never be ignored.
Whether you’re currently in hospice care with your pet or simply noticing signs of slowing down, understanding how to recognize pain can help you make more informed, compassionate decisions. This guide explores the top 10 pain indicators in senior dogs and cats, along with insights from veterinary hospice scales used to evaluate comfort and quality of life.
Why Pain Is Often Missed in Aging Pets
Dogs and cats are instinctively stoic. In the wild, showing weakness made them vulnerable. So even when they hurt, they often hide it — until it becomes impossible to ignore.
This is especially true with senior pets, where subtle signs of pain may be confused with aging, arthritis, or “just being cranky.” That’s why it’s important to look beyond the obvious.
What Is a Hospice Pain Scale?
Veterinary hospice teams often use Quality of Life (QoL) scales and pain scoring tools to evaluate how well a pet is coping. One widely used tool is the HHHHHMM Scale developed by Dr. Alice Villalobos, which evaluates:
- Hurt
- Hunger
- Hydration
- Hygiene
- Happiness
- Mobility
- More good days than bad
This scale helps families assess their pet’s comfort level and determine whether continued hospice care is appropriate — or if it’s time to consider euthanasia.
Now let’s explore the top 10 pain indicators every pet owner should recognize.
Top 10 Pain Signals in Senior Dogs & Cats
1. Changes in Mobility or Movement
One of the most visible signs of pain is difficulty moving.
Look for:
- Limping or favoring one limb
- Stiffness after waking up
- Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or walk
- “Bunny hopping” in the back legs (especially in cats)
- Slower walking pace, hesitation before moving
These can indicate arthritis, spinal pain, joint disease, or neurological issues.
2. Panting, Pacing, or Restlessness (in Dogs)
Dogs in pain may pant even when they’re not hot or excited. Pacing or constantly shifting positions is another red flag.
Cats, by contrast, may become extremely still or hide.
3. Hiding or Withdrawal
Cats often retreat under beds or into closets when in pain. Dogs may isolate themselves, avoid eye contact, or move to quieter parts of the home.
These behaviors aren’t just sadness — they’re survival tactics. A pet who hides is often hurting.
4. Changes in Appetite or Drinking Habits
Pain can suppress appetite, especially if it’s related to dental disease, abdominal pain, or nausea.
Watch for:
- Refusal to eat or eat only soft food
- Dropping food or chewing on one side
- Increased thirst (which may be a sign of kidney pain or metabolic conditions)
Loss of interest in food is one of the most reported signs near the end of life.
5. Unusual Vocalizations
Crying, whining, growling, or howling — especially if sudden or out of character — may indicate discomfort.
Cats may growl or hiss more when handled. Dogs may whimper when touched, especially in certain areas.
Pay close attention to changes in pitch, frequency, and context.
6. Postural Changes or Tension
Is your pet hunching their back? Tucking their tail? Sitting oddly? Holding their body stiffly?
Dogs and cats may adjust their posture to guard painful areas. Cats sometimes “meatloaf” — tucking their feet beneath them and sitting hunched, without fully resting.
This posture signals discomfort — often abdominal or joint-related.
7. Aggression or Irritability
A previously gentle pet that begins growling, snapping, or withdrawing from touch may be trying to avoid pain.
This is especially common in pets with arthritis, dental pain, or spinal sensitivity. It’s not a personality change — it’s a coping mechanism.
8. Excessive Grooming or Licking
Dogs may lick painful joints, wounds, or even areas that look normal. Cats may over-groom or under-groom, depending on where the pain is.
A decrease in grooming, especially in cats, can also signal discomfort — they may not feel well enough to care for themselves.
9. Accidents or Incontinence
Senior pets who suddenly begin having accidents indoors may be experiencing back pain, hip arthritis, or bladder/kidney discomfort.
This often leads to secondary stress — pets feel confused or ashamed about eliminating in the wrong place.
10. Just Not Themselves
Sometimes, the clearest signal comes from your intuition. You know your pet better than anyone.
If they seem “off,” detached, or like they’ve lost their spark — take it seriously. A pet who’s no longer engaging with the world may be trying to tell you something.
How to Monitor and Track Pain at Home
Use a daily check-in journal or QoL scorecard to keep track of symptoms. Write down:
- Appetite and food intake
- Hydration
- Mobility
- Interactions with people or other pets
- Play or tail-wagging behavior
- Elimination habits
- Bad days vs. good days
When bad days begin to outweigh good ones, it may be time to discuss next steps.
What to Do If You Suspect Your Pet Is in Pain
1. Schedule a Quality of Life Consultation
This can be an in-home visit or a telehospice appointment. A trained vet will evaluate your pet and help guide you through the options — including hospice, medications, or euthanasia.
2. Ask About Pain Management
There are many safe pain relief options available for pets — including anti-inflammatories, nerve pain medications, joint supplements, and more. A vet can customize a plan based on your pet’s condition.
3. Don’t Delay Support
Pain doesn’t always show up in dramatic ways. If something feels wrong, early support can prevent unnecessary suffering.
When Pain Becomes Unmanageable
When pain persists despite treatment — or when it begins to limit your pet’s ability to eat, move, or rest — it may be time to consider in-home euthanasia.
This isn’t giving up. It’s choosing peace over prolonged discomfort.
At Peaceful Paws At Home Care, we help families navigate this moment with compassion, clarity, and expert support. You don’t have to make this decision alone.
Final Thoughts: Pain Is a Signal — Not a Sentence
Recognizing pain is an act of love. It means you’re paying attention. It means you want better for your pet — not just longer.
If you’re noticing any of these signs, we encourage you to reach out. Whether you need reassurance, a new plan, or a peaceful goodbye, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Ready to Talk?
📞 Call us: (248) 721-8667
📧 Email: info@peacefulpawsathomecare.com
🕒 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8AM–7PM
📍 Service Area: Ferndale, Royal Oak, Troy, Southfield, Birmingham, and surrounding Southeast Michigan