Every September, National Animal Pain Awareness Month is devoted to raising public awareness of animal suffering, identifying warning signs, and enhancing the care of pets and other animals in need during pain. The goal of this month's event, which is organized by the International Veterinarian Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM), is to increase public awareness of the sometimes overlooked symptoms of animal pain and the significance of obtaining veterinarian attention when pain is suspected.
National Animal Pain Awareness Month's key goals
Recognizing pain in animals
It can be difficult to identify pain in animals because they tend to conceal it as a survival mechanism. Nonetheless, pet owners and caretakers can determine whether an animal is in pain by being alert and knowledgeable about subtle behavioural and physical cues. Animals cannot verbally communicate their distress, so it's critical to watch for both overt and covert changes.
It's important for pet owners to be aware of the subtle behaviours, such as changes in mobility, food, or behaviour, that may signal discomfort or suffering in animals, especially pets like dogs and cats, as they frequently conceal signs of pain.
Pain management
Whether an animal is in pain from an injury, disease, surgery, or age-related ailments like arthritis, this initiative highlights the importance of providing appropriate pain care.
Elderly pets in particular require constant care and attention due to their chronic pain, hence regular veterinary exams, pain monitoring, and consistent use of prescribed medications are necessary for long-term pain treatment. You may effectively manage and relieve your pet's pain by working closely with your veterinarian and paying attention to any changes in behaviour.
Supporting veterinary care
For pets to remain healthy and happy throughout their lives, support for veterinary care is crucial. Preventing disease, managing chronic disorders, and identifying potential health issues early on are all made easier with regular veterinary care.
During Animal Pain Awareness Month, pet owners are urged to speak with veterinarians regarding pain management strategies that might enhance an animal's quality of life, such as medications, therapies, and lifestyle modifications.
Signs of pain in pets
Pets frequently conceal their suffering or show it subtly, making it difficult to identify the signals of pain in them.
Changes in behaviour
Pets in pain may exhibit symptoms of uneasiness or struggle to settle in. They might stop interacting with people, withdraw more, or hide more than usual. Even ordinarily affectionate pets may growl, hiss, or snap when stroked or approached if they are in discomfort.
Vocalization
While cats may excessively growl or meow, dogs may cry, yelp, or whine. When migrating or attempting to settle in, pets may make grunts and when they are in discomfort, some cats purr, but this can be deceiving.
Changes in movement
Joint or muscle pain may be indicated by limping, difficulty walking, or stiffness, especially after resting. If an activity hurts their body, pets could refrain from jumping, running, or even standing up. It may be difficult or impossible to hop onto furniture or climb stairs if you have pain in your legs, back, or joints.
Changes in breathing
Breathing more or less deeply, particularly when at rest, may indicate discomfort or suffering. To prevent pain, pets may hold their breath or breathe shallowly.
Change in posture
Abdominal or back pain may be indicated by a stooped posture or tucked tummy. Pets maintain an inflexible or stiff posture to prevent painful movements and curl up protectively or favouring a particular section of the body to avoid pain.
Changes in grooming
Pets may bite, gnaw, or lick a sore spot, which frequently results in sores or hair loss. Painted cats may cease grooming themselves, which leaves their coat dishevelled or matted.
Change in eating and digestive issues
Abrupt cessation of eating or drinking may indicate pain and an excessive amount of pain can make the pet less hungry. An inability to eat hard food or excessive drooling might be caused by oral or dental pain. Digestive issues can arise from pain, particularly in the abdomen.
Constipation can result from pets who are in pain, especially from joint pain or injuries, as they may find it difficult to posture for a bowel movement.
Changes to sleeping habits
For comfort, pets in discomfort frequently sleep longer than usual. Experiencing discomfort can prevent pets from falling asleep.
Facial and eye changes
An animal exhibiting discomfort may have a furrowed forehead, ears pulled back, or tightness around the mouth and eyes. A sidelong glance or lack of focus can be a subliminal indicator of unease. Squinting, excessive blinking, or avoiding bright light are all possible effects of eye pain or discomfort; glazed-over eyes or a general lack of attention can be signs of worry.
Supporting pets in pain
Supporting a pet in pain takes a combination of medical intervention, environmental comfort, and emotional care.
Make an appointment with a veterinarian right away if you think your pet is in discomfort so they can be properly diagnosed and treated. Follow your veterinarian's instructions precisely when giving any prescription drugs, such as pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs. Since they might be dangerous, never administer over-the-counter human pain medicines to pets without first visiting a veterinarian.
Veterinarians may prescribe painkillers and other medications for your pet. Remember to give medications on time, and be aware of any possible adverse effects. Should any negative reactions arise, contact the veterinarian right once.
Make sure your pet has a peaceful, quiet space to sleep in that is free from stress and noise. Provide easy access to food, water, and a litter box (for cats) or potty location (for dogs) to minimize needless strain or movement. Consider utilizing slings or harnesses to help pets who have trouble moving around and if your pet has trouble jumping or climbing, install ramps or steps to help them reach furniture or get into the car. Limit exercise, especially for pets that are experiencing orthopaedic pain, such as running or jumping, to avoid further harm.
Avoid applying pressure on sensitive areas when you raise or transfer your pet. If your pet is withdrawn or agitated because they are in pain, don't push them to interact and allow them time to relax and heal. In certain situations, stiffness can be relieved with light massages or physical therapy exercises prescribed by a veterinarian.
To offer your pet emotional support, stay close to them. Though physical touch isn't always reassuring, your presence can be. Take your pet for low-energy walks, petting sessions, or just relaxing together if they feel like it. To assist in calming pets who are stressed out due to pain, think about utilizing anxiety wraps, diffusers, or soothing sprays that can be suggested by your veterinarian.
Pay attention to any changes in movement, appetite, or demeanour. For treatment modifications, get in touch with your veterinarian if discomfort gets worse or doesn't go better. To assist pet owners in determining their animal's level of discomfort, some doctors offer pain scales.
Conclusion
To improve the general well-being of animals, National Animal Pain Awareness Month is essential in educating veterinarians, pet owners, and the general public on the recognition and treatment of pain in animals.
Encouraging pet owners to receive veterinarian care for their pets is essential to their long-term well-being. Your pet's health is maintained by regular examinations, preventive care, and quick medical intervention for any problems. Providing them with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and mental stimulation is also essential to their general well-being. You can contribute to your pet's long and healthy life by maintaining proactive pet care practices and a close working relationship with a veterinarian.
It’s important to monitor your pet closely for these signs and seek veterinary care if you notice any of them. Early recognition and treatment of pain can prevent further discomfort and improve your pet’s quality of life. If you’re unsure whether your pet is in pain, a vet can help assess the situation and provide appropriate care.
Providing your pet with support throughout their suffering can significantly impact their comfort and recuperation. If you want to provide your pet with the finest treatment possible, be patient and listen to your veterinarian's advice.
