Just like humans, cats can experience different levels of pain. Although cats cannot talk to us to let us know they are experiencing pain, they are always communicating with their behaviour, body language and facial expressions.
Owners at home may notice a difference in their cat’s interactions with family members and eating routines, but not realize that these could potentially be signs of pain. Being able to identify different levels of pain can be easy if you know what you are looking for. You can use this chart to help aid you with recognizing the signs of pain in your cat.
0
Exhibits normal play behaviour and is interested in surroundings
Normal eating habits
Content and quiet
1
Signs can be subtle at this stage some owners may notice their behaviour is “off”
Not as interested in play or surroundings
May be less interested in food
2
Seek veterinary care
Quiet, eyes seem dull
May be hiding or not interacting with family as much
Sits all curled up with legs under them, tail curled around, shoulders hunched, head hanging lower then body
Eyes dull, hair coat appears rough
Less interested in food or not eating
May be licking or excessively grooming at areas that are painful
3
Seek veterinary care
Hissing, yowling or growling when alone
May try to bite owners when approached
Biting at areas
Stays in one spot for long periods of time
4
Seek veterinary care
Flat out
Unaware of surroundings or unconscious
Doesn’t respond to family
Will allow owners to touch or care for them when they normally wouldn’t
Bad breath (halitosis) in a dog or cat is usually because of poor dental health. Occasionally a dog or cat may have good teeth and still have bad breath in which case the diet is usually the cause. This is relatively rare, however, compared to the likelihood of a dental issue.
With recent changes to restrictions on businesses, we are pleased to advise that effective September 28th, 2020 we have made some important updates to our operating policies.
1. WE CAN NOW SEE ALL CASES BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
This includes vaccines, wellness exams, blood work, heartworm testing, spays and neuters, dental services, and more!
2. SAFETY MEASURES TO KEEP EVERYONE SAFE
Continue our "closed waiting room" policy to protect our clients and staff. When you arrive, please remain in your vehicle and use your cell phone to call us at 416-282-6621 (appointments ONLY at this number). We will take a history of your pet over the phone. Due to the recent rise in COVID cases we are asking that “Pets Only” come into the clinic.
Technician appointments will still be required to wait in the car for the duration of the appointment.
When instructed by a team member we will allow you to bring your pet inside - provided you are wearing a mask. Cats may be placed inside our doorway in their carriers. Dogs may be hooked up just inside our front door on a carabiner. We will call you on your cell phone to discuss findings on your pet’s appointment.
Continue the use of credit cards as the preferred payment method.
Continue with curbside pickup of food and medication - call 416-282-8516 to let us know you are here (unless you have used our online store and are having your order delivered directly to your home). To place an order through our online store, visit our website and click on "Online Store".
3. ONLINE CONSULTATIONS ARE AVAILABLE
If you wish to connect with a veterinarian via message, phone or video, visit our website and follow the "Online Consultation" link.
4. OPERATING HOURS
We are OPEN with the following hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 9:00 am – 7:30 pm - Friday: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm - Saturday: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm - Sunday: CLOSED
5. NEW PET OWNERS
Have you welcomed a new furry family member to your home? We’d love to meet them! Visit our Must Know New Pet Owner Information page for useful resources and helpful recommendations for new pet owners.
Thank you for your patience and understanding and we look forward to seeing you and your furry family members again!
