Unfortunately, most cats experience pain during their lives, whether from conditions like arthritis, injuries, dental issues or infections. Chronic diseases such as kidney or liver problems can also contribute to their discomfort. But while you can't always prevent your cat from being in pain, there are pain relief medications that can relieve pain and help them feel more comfortable.
How do I know if my cat is in pain?
Cats are masters of hiding their pain, which can make it hard to tell what they are feeling. But there are some subtle changes and behaviours to look out for that can tell you your cat is in pain. Sometimes, they may meow, growl, hiss, or groan excessively, hide or stop grooming. You may also notice a change in their sleeping habits or that they have become less active. Your cat may start toileting outside the litter box, stop eating or not as much, drink more water, or demonstrate a significant change in their behaviour and demeanour.
What can you give a cat for pain relief?
If you suspect that your cat is in pain, consult your vet before administering any pain relief. Your vet may recommend specific pain medications designed for cats. These may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as meloxicam, which are used to manage pain and inflammation. While NSAIDs can be effective for short-term pain management, it's essential to use them under veterinary supervision due to potential side effects. Your vet might also suggest supplements like glucosamine or chondroitin for managing chronic pain. For more severe pain, opioids like buprenorphine might be prescribed. In cases of chronically painful conditions, alternative therapies such as acupuncture or physical therapy may also be recommended.
Can you give a cat human pain meds?
You should never give your cat human pain medication. Common over-the-counter medicines like ibuprofen and paracetamol are toxic to cats and can cause severe health problems and, in some cases, could be fatal. Cats metabolise medications differently from humans, and what’s safe for us can be harmful or even deadly for them. For example, ibuprofen can lead to kidney failure, and paracetamol can cause liver damage. Always consult a vet before giving your cat any medication. Vets can prescribe specific pain relief designed for cats which are formulated to be safe and effective for feline health.
How can you comfort a cat in pain?
Whether or not your vet prescribes medicine to treat your cat’s pain, there are additional things you can do to make your cat feel more comfortable.
Create a comfortable environment
Help your cat feel calm and relaxed by providing a quiet area with a comfortable bed where it can rest. Regularly check that their bedding is clean and dry. Make sure their litter box is in a place where they feel safe and is easily accessible. If their pain and discomfort make it hard for them to use their litter box, consider switching it to something with low sides for easy access.
Handle with care
Be extra gentle with how you touch or pick up your cat to avoid putting pressure on painful areas. When talking to your cat, use a calm and soothing voice to help them feel safe and reassured. It’s common for cats to become withdrawn or irritable when in severe pain, so be patient and avoid any sudden movements that could frighten them.
Check for injuries
Gently inspect your cat for any visible signs of injuries or issues. Look for swelling, cuts, or abnormal behaviour that might indicate pain. Handle your cat with care and avoid pressing on any sensitive areas. If you’re unsure about what you see, consult a vet for a thorough examination.
Keep your cat hydrated
Adequate hydration is important for recovery. Ensure your cat always has access to fresh, clean water. If they’re not drinking enough, try offering water in different bowls or using a cat water fountain, which might be more enticing.
Monitor their eating
Appetite loss can be a sign of discomfort or illness. Offer small, easily digestible meals that your cat enjoys. You might try warming the food slightly to make it more appealing or providing a variety of options. If they refuse to eat or drink, contact your vet, as it could indicate a more serious issue.
Be patient
Healing takes time, and your cat may need extra care and patience. Avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that could stress your cat further. Allow your cat to come to you for comfort on its own terms, and be prepared to give it plenty of time to recover fully.
What pain medications will a vet prescribe?
There are several types of pain medications your vet may prescribe for your cat, depending on the cause of their pain and degree of discomfort. For example:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These are commonly used to reduce pain and inflammation, for example, Meloxicam and Robenacoxib. They are generally effective but must be used under vet supervision due to potential side effects
- Opioids: For more severe pain, opioids like Buprenorphine may be prescribed. These drugs are particularly strong but can have sedative effects and require careful dosing
- Local analgesics: Sometimes, vets use local treatments like patches or injections that provide targeted pain relief
- Corticosteroids: These are used for pain related to inflammation, though they are usually a short-term solution due to potential side effects
Always follow your vet's instructions regarding dosage and administration to ensure safety and effectiveness.
When should you not give your cat pain relief medicine?
There are certain situations when your cat shouldn’t take certain painkillers. NSAIDs should always be used with extreme caution or avoided if your cat has liver, kidney, or heart disease, a history of stomach ulcers, or blood clotting problems. Pregnant cats and kittens under 6 weeks old should not receive NSAIDs due to potentially severe side effects. Opioids can exacerbate confusion and unsteady gait, making them unsuitable for cats with feline cognitive dysfunction (dementia) or balance issues (vestibular disease). Always consult your vet before giving your cat any pain relief medication. If you notice severe side effects, contact your vet immediately to adjust the treatment or seek alternative pain relief options.
Managing a cat's pain is all about recognising the subtle signs that your cat is in pain and getting veterinary advice before giving your pet any medication. Your vet can prescribe safe, effective pain relief tailored to your cat’s needs and offer additional comfort.
