Last Updated on September 7, 2023 by Dr. Alisha Barnes
While it’s so easy for us to include our pets in our lives as part of our families, sometimes we forget just how similar to us our pets really are. We know that our pets can feel emotion, exhibit various behaviors (some more amusing than others!), and change with age and time, but sometimes it’s hard to remember that our pets also have health needs like we do! Like us, our pets need regular care and attention to ensure that their metrics are in good order: whether that be their weight, blood pressure, joint health, or mobility. And, like us, pets can often feel pain and discomfort—sometimes without exhibiting any signs. To discover more about pain relief for pets and how you can increase your pet’s quality of life, read on!
How can I tell if my pet is in pain?
The truth is, you can’t always tell if your pet is in pain—but there are some very good indicators to look out for if you suspect your pet might not be feeling their best.
“My pet is hiding from me” and “my pet won’t come out from under the bed!”
Does it feel like your pet is hiding from you? If your pet won’t come out from under the bed, at first, you may believe it’s because they’ve been spooked by a loud sound or a scary experience. But there’s another reason that pets sequester themselves in a safe space: because they’re in pain.
Pets that are in pain may not always exhibit obvious signals like yelping, whining, or shaking. Instead, their natural instinct to take shelter and recover may arise, forcing them into a location like under the bed, into a crate, beneath a table, or into a closet.
“My pet yelps when touched” or “my pet snaps when I touch them!”
One of the more visible signs that your pet may be in pain is if they yelp when you touch them, or if they snap, growl, or bare their teeth when you come near. If these are unusual behaviors, then there is a high probability that your pet is in some kind of discomfort. It’s important to make a note of any area that your pet is protecting, as it may give an indication of where there is an injury or pain.
“My pet doesn’t run around anymore”
Did your pet use to run around with energy, even very recently? Maybe it was something they did a few years ago, so you’ve thought that they’ve transitioned into age and calmness. This isn’t always the case. Even adult pets in more advanced years can still get the “zoomies” and run around excitedly, it’s actually very common.
If your pet doesn’t run around anymore—whether they haven’t for a few years, or a few days—it could be because they’re in pain.
“My pet doesn’t have any energy”
Is your pet lethargic and just “off?” Doesn’t seem to have any energy or zest for life like they once did? Or maybe your pet never has been energetic—maybe there’s always been something a little tired about the way they carry themselves.
If this is the case, it might indicate that your pet is in pain. Your pet should be energetic and alert, even if their personality isn’t the most outgoing or chipper. A healthy pet shows signs of engagement and energy, and is able to move around in their space spontaneously and easily.
“My pet seems depressed”
Did your pet once have a lot of energy and enthusiasm, and now no longer seems to have it? Pain can manifest as depression in your pet, and can lead them to feel sluggish and apathetic—especially in cases of chronic pain. Chronic pain can develop over time, and often afflicts pets as they get older.
If your pet seems depressed, they may be feeling down because of chronic pain. It’s possible that this is a result of joint pain, illness, or some other kind of discomfort that your pet is experiencing.
Best Pet Chiropractor in Denver, CO
If your pet is in pain, or simply not acting like themself, then it’s time to see the best pet chiropractor in Denver, CO! (We also have offices in Fort Collins, Windsor, Boulder, and Broomfield). Our expert pet chiropractors are standing by to help your pet get out of pain and back to their active, excited self.
Pet chiropractic is a fantastic way to treat your pet’s neuro-musculoskeletal system, which is responsible for their bones, joints, muscles, and nerves. If your pet has pulled a muscle, regularly jumps on and off of furniture, or carries significant weight, then it’s time to investigate pet chiropractic. An adjustment may be all your furry friend needs to get out of pain and back to their most vitalic self. To learn more, call us today and book your pet’s appointment—it’s time to get your pet out of pain!