Q&A for How to Tell if a Cat Is in Pain

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Do cats meow if they are in pain?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Cats do meow and purr when in pain. Experts believe this is because the cat finds it comforting, so it's never safe to assume a cat is not in pain because they are vocalizing.

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Question

What can you give a cat for pain?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Truly the only safe medications for cats in pain are those supplied by the vet. Most household pain killers are highly toxic to cats, and you would end up with a pained cat that has also been poisoned.

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Question

What are the symptoms of a cat dying?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

A dying cat may often hide away and seek a solitary place. In addition, they are unlikely to eat and will quickly become dehydrated. Check for this by lifting the scruff and letting go. If it sinks back slowly, the cat is dehydrated.

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Question

What are the signs of pain in cats?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

A change of character, such as the placid cat that becomes aggressive, is a classic sign of pain. Other clues are hiding away, not eating, sitting hunched up, folding the ears back, and growling when touched.

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