Animals can’t speak, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t saying something important through their actions. Being able to read your animal’s behavior and signs is an essential part of being a good animal owner. Catching early signs of pain and discomfort can help avoid more serious problems down the road according to vets and animal behaviorists. If you’re using pet care services in Dubai, knowing the signs can help you to prevent problems to keep your pet in the best shape possible.

1. Changes in Daily Habits  

A change in habits is one of the oldest signs of pain. Animals in pain may become more withdrawn and hide more. They may lose interest in their favorite activities. This may be a sign of them getting older, but an active pet becoming quiet is a sign that they may be in pain.

2. Changes in Eating or Drinking Habits   

Pain may also affect appetite. Animals in pain may eat less or avoid hard food. They may also drink more or less than what they are supposed to. These are changes that are caused by dental pain, discomfort in the stomach, or other internal problems.

3. Strange Body Posture or Movement

Pets may limp, move stiffly, or hunch their backs. They might avoid jumping or climbing. Cats may crouch low to the ground, while dogs may hesitate before sitting or standing. These movements are important signs that something is wrong.

4. More Than Normal Licking or Grooming

Pets often lick or chew the area that hurts. This may be a sign of a wound that is not visible. This also may be a sign that a pet is injured or in pain. They may lick their paw, joints, or body parts to the point that there is not a visible injury.

5. Changes in Facial Expressions

Pets may pull funny faces when in pain. Eyes may be squinting shut, ears are pulled the back, the eyebrows may be scrunched, and the jaw may be locked. These are signs that a pet is experiencing discomfort. Cats may have tight faces with their eyes partially closed.

6. Changes in Behavior

Pets may become anxious, Aggressive, and are startled easily. They may snap and growl when touched in the area that is causing pain. This is a sign that a pet is in distress.

7. Trouble Sleeping

Pets may sleep more or less when they are in pain. They may struggle to get in a good position and may pace. When rested, they may change positions often. This may be a sign that the pet is experiencing pain in their abdomen or joints.

8. Changes in Bathroom Habits 

Straining or even accidents in the house can signal discomfort related to digestive, urinary, or even mobility problems. These are not signs to ignore. 

9. Less Grooming (Especially with Cats) 

Grooming is a natural behavior of cats, so if you notice that your kitty is having issues with grooming or is not grooming at all, it could signal that something is wrong. This is especially true with older or arthritic cats that have a dull or matted coat. 

10. Some Cues that are Silent 

Even though pets can cry, they can also sigh, grunt, and have breathing that is different than usual. These and other behaviors can signal that the pet is having discomfort or pain. 

When to Get Help 

If you see ongoing movement, behavior, or habit changes in your pet, you need to see a vet right away. Pet care professionals in Dubai are able to identify problems during routine care and tend to work with vets, so use that knowledge to protect your pet. 

Final Thoughts 

Recognizing the behavior of pets that are in pain and not able to communicate this pain is a critical element of being a responsible pet owner. Our pets depend on us to be observant about the signs that cannot be expressed in words. With the right level of focus on pet care, and especially with the help of professionals, you will be able to help your pet maintain greater comfort and quality of life.