5 Subtle Signs Your Pet Might Be in Pain (And What You Can Do About It)

Intro: They Can’t Tell You, But They Show You

Pets can’t speak — at least, not in words. But their bodies are constantly communicating how they feel. A sudden change in behaviour, eating habits, or posture might seem minor, but often these are your pet’s way of saying, “I’m not okay.”

At Sapphire Vets, we often meet loving pet parents who only realise their furry friend was in discomfort once the symptoms became obvious. The truth is, most pets instinctively hide pain — a natural behaviour inherited from their wild ancestors. Recognising these early cues can make a huge difference in their comfort, mobility, and long-term health.

Here are five subtle signs your pet might be in pain — and what you can do about them.

1. Changes in Appetite or Water Intake

If your once-enthusiastic eater starts turning away from food, don’t dismiss it as “just being picky.” A sudden decrease in appetite may indicate dental pain, nausea, or internal discomfort. Cats are especially prone to hiding illness, so skipping even one or two meals can be a red flag.

On the other hand, increased thirst or urination could signal issues like kidney disease, diabetes, or infections. In Trinidad’s warm climate, hydration changes are common, but persistent differences shouldn’t be ignored.

👉🏽 What to do: Keep a simple log of your pet’s meals and water intake. If you notice consistent changes over 24–48 hours, schedule a check-up. Early detection often means simpler, more affordable treatment.

2. Limping or Favouring One Side

A limp doesn’t always mean an injury. Pets can favour one side because of joint pain, arthritis, or muscle strain. Some dogs or cats may only show stiffness after resting, then “walk it off” — giving the false impression that everything’s fine.

In older pets, limping or slower movement might be due to degenerative joint disease or hip dysplasia. These conditions are common in Trinidad’s active pet population, especially among larger breeds that love running on the beach or in open yards.

👉🏽 What to do: Limit strenuous activity until a vet assesses the cause. Avoid giving human pain medication — some, like ibuprofen, are toxic to pets. Gentle acupuncture or physiotherapy, both available at Sapphire Vets, can help manage chronic discomfort safely.

3. Avoiding Touch or Hiding More Often

When a pet starts avoiding contact or hiding, it’s usually not a personality change — it’s a protective response. Animals in pain often seek quiet spaces to rest where they feel safe from touch or further irritation.

Cats may retreat under furniture, while dogs may ignore commands or avoid cuddles. This can also coincide with irritability or snapping when touched near a sore area.

👉🏽 What to do: Approach gently and note whether the reaction happens consistently in the same spot. Don’t force affection — instead, make their environment calm and comfortable until you can visit your vet. Pain can make even the gentlest pet defensive.

4. Panting or Whining More Often

Panting in hot weather is normal for dogs, especially in the Caribbean heat. But panting when it’s cool, or without exercise, can be a stress or pain response. Similarly, whining, whimpering, or restlessness during sleep may indicate discomfort.

Cats rarely vocalise when they’re hurting, so listen for unusual meows or silence from a typically chatty cat. These subtle behavioural changes often reveal more than we realise.

👉🏽 What to do: Monitor when and how often the panting or whining occurs. If it happens during rest or at night, it may be linked to internal pain or anxiety. A vet can help determine whether it’s physical or emotional distress.

5. Grooming Less (or Excessively)

Grooming habits can reveal a lot about a pet’s wellbeing. Cats that suddenly stop grooming might be sore or unable to reach certain areas due to joint pain. Conversely, excessive licking, biting, or chewing in one spot can mean irritation, infection, or pain beneath the skin.

👉🏽 What to do: Look for bald spots, scabs, or redness. Don’t apply over-the-counter creams or ointments without veterinary advice — many are unsafe for pets to ingest. If your dog or cat fixates on one area, a quick exam can help pinpoint the cause and prevent infection.

What To Do If You Suspect Pain

1. Observe closely. Keep a brief daily record of symptoms — eating, mobility, mood.

2. Don’t medicate without guidance. Human medications can be dangerous.

3. Book a professional evaluation. Pain can stem from teeth, joints, organs, or even stress.

4. Consider holistic options. Acupuncture and food therapy are safe, proven ways to relieve chronic pain without relying solely on drugs.

At Sapphire Vets, we combine modern diagnostics with holistic treatments like acupuncture, Tui Na massage, and nutrition therapy to address pain from multiple angles. Every plan is tailored to your pet’s lifestyle and comfort.

A Final Thought: Trust Your Instincts

You know your pet best. If something feels “off,” you’re probably right. Early intervention doesn’t just treat pain — it prevents it from becoming long-term suffering.

Whether it’s an aging Labrador or a kitten that’s suddenly quiet, a quick consultation at Sapphire Vets — your trusted veterinary clinic in Trinidad — can help you find answers and keep your pet happy, active, and pain-free.