As pets enter their senior years, chronic pain becomes increasingly common—but often goes unnoticed. Dogs and cats are masters at masking discomfort, which can delay diagnosis and worsen long-term outcomes. At Bayview Animal Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida, we’re here to help pet parents recognize subtle warning signs of pain and explore treatment options that can restore comfort and mobility.

Understanding Chronic Pain in Senior Pets

Chronic pain is more than a temporary ache—it’s persistent discomfort that affects your pet’s daily life. It often stems from progressive conditions and may go undiagnosed until symptoms interfere with basic activities like walking, eating, or resting.

What Causes Chronic Pain?

Senior pets are especially prone to conditions such as:

  • Osteoarthritis and joint degeneration – among the leading causes of chronic pain in aging dogs and cats
  • Spinal conditions like intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) or degenerative myelopathy
  • Cancer-related pain, often due to pressure from growing tumors
  • Dental disease, a silent source of pain that’s frequently overlooked

Learn more about the physical and emotional effects of chronic discomfort in the AAHA Mobility Matters Guide.

How to Recognize Pain in Your Pet

Pain in pets doesn’t always look obvious. Many signs are subtle and develop gradually, especially in cats.

Behavioral Clues to Watch For

  • Withdrawal from play, family, or other pets
  • Reluctance to move or use stairs
  • Irritability or changes in personality
  • Disrupted sleep or pacing at night

The AAHA guide to common pain signs offers a helpful checklist.

Mobility & Postural Changes

  • Limping or stiffness, particularly after rest
  • Hunched posture or back leg dragging
  • Difficulty getting up or lying down
  • Hesitation to jump or climb stairs

Check out this AKC article on limping for more insights.

Changes in Grooming and Appearance

  • Matted or dull coats due to decreased grooming
  • Excessive licking or chewing at joints or paws
  • Visible tension in facial expressions or body language

How Vets Diagnose Chronic Pain

An accurate diagnosis is the first step toward relief.

What to Expect at a Veterinary Visit

  • A comprehensive physical exam to assess joint function and pain response
  • Bloodwork and urinalysis to rule out other causes of lethargy or weakness
  • X-rays or advanced imaging (MRI, CT scans) for deeper insights into spinal and joint health
    Preventive Testing for Senior Pets – Zoetis

Annual wellness exams are essential for senior pets—even when symptoms seem mild. Explore AAHA’s care recommendations to stay ahead of pain-related issues.

Proven Treatment Options for Chronic Pain

While chronic pain may not be curable, it is highly manageable with the right treatment strategy.

Medications and Supplements

  • NSAIDs for inflammation
  • Gabapentin or Amantadine for nerve-related pain
  • Joint supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3s
    Read about senior dog supplements

Your veterinarian will tailor a regimen that balances relief with safety, especially for pets with liver or kidney concerns.

Newer Therapies for Lasting Comfort

These options offer a powerful, non-NSAID alternative for managing long-term arthritis pain.

Physical Rehabilitation

Warm-ups and cooldowns before and after walks or exercise can also minimize flare-ups.

Laser Therapy & Acupuncture

These therapies reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and support healing—especially beneficial for pets who don’t tolerate medications well.
Laser Therapy Explained – AKC

Creating a Comfortable Home for a Pain-Free Life

Supporting your pet at home is just as important as clinical care.

Helpful Adjustments for Senior Pets

  • Orthopedic beds and heated pads to ease joint stiffness
  • Pet ramps and non-slip flooring to support safe movement
  • Mobility aids such as harnesses or slings
    Check out assistive devices

Daily Exercise, Tailored to Their Needs

Short, slow walks and light play can keep your pet active without overstressing joints.
Exercises for Dogs with Osteoarthritis – Zoetis

Regular activity also helps maintain a healthy weight, which is key to reducing joint strain.

When to Call the Vet

Reach out if your pet:

  • Becomes more reclusive or irritable
  • Struggles to get up, eat, or walk
  • No longer responds to existing medications
  • Shows new symptoms like vocalizing, trembling, or falls

Sometimes, subtle shifts can signal deeper issues. Schedule an evaluation at Bayview Animal Hospital.

Prevention & Long-Term Management

Don’t wait for visible pain to act—chronic pain often starts before you notice. Regular checkups, a proactive lifestyle, and early intervention can make a profound difference.
Book a wellness exam

Need help understanding your pet’s aging process? Read AAHA’s guide to senior life stages and AVMA’s senior care tips.

Let’s Make Aging More Comfortable—Together

Your pet’s golden years should be full of comfort, not compromise. At Bayview Animal Hospital, we’re here to help you identify pain early and create a personalized care plan that supports mobility, well-being, and joy.