09/15/2026
🐾 SEPTEMBER IS ANIMAL PAIN AWARENESS MONTH 🐾
One of the biggest misconceptions about pain in pets?
“If they were hurting, I’d know.”
Unfortunately, that isn’t always true. Dogs and cats are very good at hiding pain. They may continue eating, walking around, greeting you, or even playing while still experiencing significant discomfort.
So, what should you watch for?
🔹 Limping or favoring a leg — a limping pet is a painful pet.
🔹 Reluctance to jump onto furniture or use stairs
🔹 Difficulty getting up or lying down
🔹 Sleeping more or changing sleeping positions
🔹 Hiding or becoming less social
🔹 Irritability or acting “grumpy” when touched
🔹 Excessive licking of a particular area
🔹 Changes in appetite
🔹 Restlessness or difficulty getting comfortable
🔹 Decreased grooming, especially in cats
🔹 Changes in posture, facial expression, or the way they move
🔹 Simply not acting like themselves
Pain doesn’t only happen after an injury. Arthritis, dental disease, orthopedic problems, ear infections, abdominal issues, cancer, and many other conditions can cause pain.
The good news? There are many ways we can help manage pain. Depending on the cause, treatment may include prescription pain medications, supplements, rehabilitation, or newer osteoarthritis treatments such as Librela® for dogs and Solensia® for cats.
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Your veterinarian can help determine why your pet hurts and what pain management plan is right for them. ❤️
🐶🐱 If you notice a change in how your pet moves, acts, sleeps, eats, or interacts with you, don’t assume it’s “just getting older.”
They may not be able to tell us where it hurts — but they can show us.
If you’re concerned that your pet may be experiencing pain, reach out to our team. We’re happy to help you determine the next best step for your pet. 🐾
🐶 Dog: Take the Dog Osteoarthritis Pain Quiz
 https://www.zoetispetcare.com/products/librela/quiz/dog-osteoarthritis
🐱 Cat: Take the Cat Osteoarthritis Pain Quiz
https://www.zoetispetcare.com/products/solensia/quiz/cat-osteoarthritis