29/09/2023
⚡September is Animal Pain Awareness Month ⚡
Animals experience pain just like humans do, but sometimes the signs can be subtle and often overlooked.
Prey species such as rabbits are very good at hiding signs of pain and distress and when those signs become obvious, sadly it may be too late.
Spending time with your pets, being familiar with them and noting any changes in behaviour can make it much easier to recognise any symptoms of pain if they develop so that they can then get the necessary help.
Often elderly pets in pain are overlooked as their symptoms are put down to old age, but their pain can be managed, to help them be as comfortable as possible in their final years.
Signs of pain-
1️⃣ Reduced activity - eg a reluctance to play, carry out normal behaviours or interact
2️⃣ Changes in sleeping patterns - eg excess sleeping or restlessness/unable to settle
3️⃣ Reduced mobility- Avoiding stairs, not jumping, reluctance to go for walks
4️⃣ Changes in appetite
5️⃣ Over-grooming specific areas
6️⃣ Temperament changes - eg growling, hissing, and being defensive when they usually wouldn't
If you feel your pet may be in pain, contact your Vet for further advice.
