Are Your Feline Patients Suffering in Silence?

The Shocking Reason You’re Missing the Signs of Pain

According to Dr. Wailani Sung, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist, “Cats have evolved to be stoic and hide pain to protect themselves. In a veterinary setting, this can make diagnosing health problems more difficult unless owners are observant of subtle changes in behavior.”

Recognizing the Subtle Signs of Pain in Cats

While cats are experts at concealing pain, there are certain behavioral and physical clues that may indicate discomfort:

  • Changes in Activity Levels: A normally active cat may become more lethargic or avoid jumping or climbing.

  • Altered Grooming Habits: Cats in pain might groom less or excessively focus on a painful area.

  • Appetite Changes: A decrease in appetite or reluctance to eat can signal underlying pain.

  • Litter Box Behavior: Straining, difficulty, or avoidance of the litter box can point to discomfort, especially if related to urinary or gastrointestinal issues.

  • Vocalization: Some cats may vocalize more when in pain, while others become unusually silent.

Check out our tools below to learn why your feline patients might be masking discomfort, how to recognize subtle signs of pain, and what steps you can take to keep them healthy and happy.

Learn more about recognizing pain in cats

  • Podcast

    Why Cats Hide Pain and How to Spot the Signs

    Dive into the fascinating history of cats and explore one of their most remarkable traits—their ability to conceal pain.

    Our special guest, Dr. Wailani Sung, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist and owner of Bay Area Pet Behavior, sheds light on why this behavior evolved from their wild ancestors and how it persists in modern domestic cats.

    Learn why your feline patients might be masking discomfort, how to recognize subtle signs of pain, and what steps you can take to keep them healthy and happy.

    LISTEN NOW

  • Video

    Cracking the Code: How to Spot Hidden Pain in Cats

    As veterinarians, we know that cats are masters at hiding pain—an instinct carried over from their wild ancestors, where showing weakness could attract predators or rivals. Despite being domesticated, today’s house cats still mask discomfort, making it challenging for us to detect health issues early.

    Join Dr. Wailani Sung, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist and learn how your keen observation of subtle changes are critical for diagnosing and managing feline pain effectively.

    WATCH NOW