It’s important to know how pain can be exhibited in pets since they are unable to tell you when they are experiencing pain.
Signs your pet might be in pain:
- Stiff gait
- Reluctant to get up when laying down
- Holding the head in a lower position
- Not wanting to jump up or down onto the bed or couch
- Crying out or whining especially with movement or being touched or lifted up
- Decreased appetite
- Change in personality
- Restlessness
- Panting
- Reluctant to use the stairs
- Lethargy
- Hiding
- Irritability or uncharacteristic aggression
- Limping or holding your leg up
- Hunched back
- Tucked up abdomen
- Rapid breathing
- Decrease in sleeping
What should you do if you believe your pet may be in pain?
- Keep your pet calm and quiet.
- DO NOT give over-the-counter medication that is made for humans like Ibuprofen or Tylenol!
- Call your veterinarian – Knox Pet Clinic has 3 great doctors! Call us at 309-343-6156. We also staff an emergency line for after-hours (till 9 pm) and on holidays & weekends.