Introduction
Knowing how to tell if your cat is in pain can be difficult. Cats are experts at hiding discomfort, and many owners don’t realise something is wrong until the problem becomes advanced.
If you’ve been wondering how to tell if your cat is in pain, this guide will walk you through the subtle behavioural and physical signs that should never be ignored.
Why It’s So Hard to Tell If Your Cat Is in Pain
Understanding how to tell if your cat is in pain starts with recognising their natural instincts. In the wild, showing weakness makes animals vulnerable. Even our domesticated cats still hide pain as a survival mechanism.
That’s why small behavioural changes often matter more than dramatic symptoms.
15 Signs That Help You Tell If Your Cat Is in Pain
1. Hiding More Than Usual
Withdrawal is one of the earliest indicators when learning how to tell if your cat is in pain. A normally social cat that suddenly isolates themselves may be struggling.
2. Changes in Grooming
If you’re trying to figure out how to tell if your cat is in pain, look at their coat.
- Poor grooming = possible illness or discomfort
- Over-grooming one area = possible localised pain
3. Reduced Appetite
Loss of appetite is a major clue in understanding how to tell if your cat is in pain.
Cats that stop eating for more than 24 hours should always be checked by a vet.
4. Litter Tray Changes
Pain can cause:
- Straining
- Urinating outside the tray
- Constipation
- Vocalising in the tray
These signs are especially important when assessing how to tell if your cat is in pain.
5. Hunched or Tense Posture
Cats in discomfort often sit in a tight, hunched position with a tucked abdomen. This is a classic physical sign when identifying how to tell if your cat is in pain.
6. Reluctance to Jump
If your cat stops jumping onto furniture or struggles with stairs, arthritis could be the cause. Mobility changes are a common way owners realise how to tell if their cat is in pain.
7. Behaviour Changes
Sudden aggression, irritability, or clinginess can all indicate discomfort. Behavioural shifts are often the first clue when learning how to tell if your cat is in pain.
8. Vocal Changes
More meowing, growling, or unusual quietness can indicate pain — especially if it’s new behaviour.
9. Facial Expression Changes
Veterinarians use the Feline Grimace Scale to assess discomfort.
Look for:
- Squinted eyes
- Flattened ears
- Tension around the mouth
- Stiff whiskers
These subtle cues help with how to tell if your cat is in pain.
10. Breathing Changes
Breathing faster than 30 breaths per minute at rest is not normal. Rapid breathing can indicate serious pain or illness.
11. Trembling
Shaking or trembling can signal pain, fever, or stress.
12. Sleeping More Than Normal
While cats love sleep, excessive lethargy combined with other signs may indicate discomfort.
13. Limping or Stiffness
Even subtle stiffness when getting up can indicate joint pain.
14. Weight Loss
Chronic pain often leads to reduced appetite and gradual weight loss.
15. Avoiding Touch
If your cat suddenly flinches or reacts when you touch a certain area, this is a strong indicator of localised pain.
When You Should See a Vet
If you’re unsure how to tell if your cat is in pain, it’s always safer to seek advice.
Contact your vet urgently if your cat:
- Stops eating
- Has difficulty breathing
- Cannot urinate
- Cries out suddenly
- Has a swollen abdomen
For subtle signs lasting more than 48 hours, book a non-urgent appointment.
Common Causes of Pain in Cats
Understanding possible causes can also help you recognise how to tell if your cat is in pain early.
Common causes include:
- Arthritis
- Dental disease
- Urinary tract disease
- Abscesses
- Injury
- Gastrointestinal problems
Frequently Asked Questions
How do cats act when they are in pain?
They may hide, stop eating, groom less, or become irritable. Subtle behavioural changes are often the first clue.
Do cats purr when they are in pain?
Yes. Purring doesn’t always mean happiness — some cats purr to self-soothe when uncomfortable.
How long should I wait before seeing a vet?
If signs last more than 24–48 hours, or if your cat stops eating, seek veterinary advice immediately.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to tell if your cat is in pain is one of the most important skills a pet owner can develop.
Because cats instinctively hide discomfort, small behavioural changes are often your biggest clue. Trust your instincts — if something feels different, it probably is.
Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming serious health problems.
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