Pawsitive Pain Management
We never want to see our little furball friends in distress, so we share your commitment to their comfort. Whether your cat is dealing with short-term discomfort, age-related aches, or a chronic condition, the Sacramento Cat Hospital team is dedicated to enhancing their quality of life.
What Is The Difference Between Acute and Chronic Pain?
Acute pain generally occurs suddenly and is often associated with injuries. For instance, if your cat starts limping after jumping down from the counter, they may be experiencing acute pain.
Chronic pain persists over time and is more commonly linked to conditions like osteoarthritis. This type of pain tends to be dull and persistent, unlike the sharp pain of acute injuries. While many chronic pain conditions are incurable, the main objective is to manage pain and minimize discomfort throughout your cat's life.
Recognizing Signs Of Pain
Cats are masters at concealing their discomfort, but there are telltale signs to watch for:
- Resisting handling or being picked up
- Withdrawal from family activities (for social cats)
- Aggression or unexpected reactions when approached
- Decreased grooming and unkempt haircoat (mats, dander, or greasy fur)
- Increased grooming in specific areas
- Stiffness or limping
- Changes in personality
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is common in cats, especially our older companions. And because the clinical signs of arthritis in cats are very different from those noticed in dogs, this condition is often not recognized until it is advanced.
In cats, the clinical signs of osteoarthritis are more typically behavioral changes. Common behavioral changes in cats with osteoarthritis include:
- Changes in mobility
- Increased time spent resting
- Reduced time grooming
- Changes in social behavior
- Heightened vocalization
- Objection to being handled while resting
- Changes in play and hunting behavior
- Changes in overall posture
Our Approach to Treatment
As a cat-only hospital, our team is expertly trained in the nuances of feline pain. If you suspect your cat is experiencing either acute or chronic pain, we'll have you complete a pre-appointment pain assessment form and schedule a comprehensive nose-to-tail examination. Knowing how well cats keep their ailments hidden we will most likely run additional diagnostic testing to identify the underlying issue.
Pain management is not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why we adopt a personalized multimodal approach to our treatment plans. These plans may include:
- Medications, injections, or supplements
- Weight management
- Environmental modifications