Recognizing Chronic Pain in Aging Pets

As pets age, they don’t always show pain in obvious ways. Subtle changes in mobility, mood, or daily routines may be the only clues. At Westerville Veterinary Clinic, we frequently work with senior pets who have become less active, withdrawn, or reluctant to climb stairs or jump onto furniture—behaviors that are often mistakenly attributed to “just getting old.”

However, these changes often point to chronic pain, which can significantly impact your pet’s comfort and quality of life. Identifying and addressing these signs early is key.

Need help recognizing the signs? The What’s Wrong? Common Pet Pain Signs guide offers a helpful breakdown of symptoms you might not realize are pain-related.

Common Pain Indicators in Senior Pets

  • Postural changes or limping after resting
  • Avoidance of stairs, play, or being touched
  • Increased vocalization, such as whining or yelping
  • Behavioral shifts like aggression or withdrawal

Even subtle changes can signal that your pet is hurting. Observing their daily habits closely—and acting when something seems “off”—can make all the difference.

What Causes Chronic Pain in Senior Pets?

Chronic pain in older pets typically stems from long-term, progressive conditions. Two of the most common culprits are:

1. Arthritis

Degenerative joint disease affects a large percentage of senior dogs and cats. It can develop slowly over time, often going unnoticed until mobility is severely affected. Learn more about managing mobility and arthritis in the Mobility Matters Guide – AAHA.

2. Dental Disease

Dental pain is frequently overlooked, but it can be excruciating. Untreated infections or tooth decay can affect your pet’s ability to eat comfortably and even lead to systemic illness.

Need more context? The Why and the “Ow”: 7 Conditions That Cause Pain in Pets outlines the top causes of discomfort and how to recognize them.

How We Treat and Manage Chronic Pain

At Westerville Veterinary Clinic, we take a multimodal approach to managing chronic pain—combining medication, alternative therapies, and home care to create a personalized plan for your pet.

Pharmaceutical Options

  • NSAIDs help manage inflammation and discomfort but require regular monitoring of liver and kidney health.
  • Opioids are reserved for more severe or advanced pain cases.
  • Joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin can help slow joint degeneration.

We tailor medication plans based on your pet’s size, condition, and any underlying health issues.

Non-Medication Therapies

Pain relief doesn’t always come in pill form. We often recommend:

  • Physical therapy and exercise modifications
  • Acupuncture to manage pain and inflammation holistically
  • Dietary adjustments for weight control and joint support

For pets with arthritis, this arthritis-friendly home guide from Zoetis is a great resource for improving comfort at home.

Ready for a personalized treatment plan? Make an appointment with our team to discuss what’s best for your pet.

Advanced Pain Management Tools

Laser Therapy and Rehabilitation

  • Laser therapy uses light energy to reduce pain and stimulate healing.
  • Rehabilitative services focus on low-impact exercises and strength training to improve mobility and prevent muscle loss.

Both are excellent options for pets with arthritis, recovering from injury, or managing long-term pain.

For pets who struggle with stairs or slippery surfaces, we also recommend exploring assistive devices and home adjustments that can improve safety and ease of movement.

When to Seek Veterinary Help

Knowing When It’s Time to Call Your Vet

Contact us immediately if your pet exhibits:

  • Sudden inability to walk or move
  • Extreme sensitivity to touch
  • Signs of respiratory distress
  • Marked changes in appetite or alertness

Ongoing checkups are essential to monitor chronic conditions and adjust treatment plans. Supporting Your Senior Pet: Veterinary Care Recommendations offers a helpful overview of what to expect during senior care visits.

Staying Proactive: Keep Your Senior Pet Comfortable

Ongoing pain management doesn’t just improve quality of life—it can help extend it. By staying informed and working closely with your veterinary team, you can help your pet remain mobile, content, and engaged well into their golden years.

If you’re unsure whether your pet’s behavior is related to pain or aging, start with a wellness exam. Regular visits and bloodwork (especially for seniors) help us identify subtle shifts in health before they become major problems. Learn more from Preventive Testing for Senior Pets – Zoetis Petcare.

Let’s Keep Your Pet Comfortable—Together

At Westerville Veterinary Clinic, we’re committed to helping pets age gracefully and pain-free. Whether it’s advanced diagnostics, gentle therapies, or simply guidance on how to make your home more pet-friendly, our team is here for you.

If you’re concerned about your pet’s comfort or mobility, don’t wait—contact us today and let us help your pet live their senior years with ease and joy.