September is dedicated to an issue that often goes unnoticed: the pain our pets may be experiencing without us realizing it.

Dogs and cats feel pain just as we do. The difference is that they rarely express it in a way that is immediately obvious to us. Instead of “complaining,” they may simply sleep more, lose interest in playing, or become less willing to jump onto the sofa.

And that’s how pain can quietly become part of their everyday lives without us noticing.

Why Do Pets Often Hide Their Pain?

In the wild, showing signs of weakness can put an animal’s survival at risk. That is why many pets have an instinctive tendency to hide pain or discomfort, particularly cats.

Even when the pain is significant, the signs can be very subtle. Often, there is no sudden change in behavior, but rather a series of small differences that appear gradually.

And because these changes happen so slowly, it is easy to simply put them down to… getting older.

What Signs Should You Never Ignore?

There is no single way in which pain manifests itself.

Depending on their personality, age, and the health issue they are experiencing, you may notice:

• Less interest in playing or going for walks
• Difficulty getting up or lying down
• Limping or stiffness, particularly after resting
• Reluctance to climb stairs or jump onto furniture
• Changes in appetite
• Changes in sleeping habits
• Excessive licking of a specific area
• Changes in mood or increased irritability

In short, if your pet starts doing less than they used to, there is a possibility that pain may be the reason.

Chronic Inflammation Can Go Unnoticed

Pain is often associated with inflammation.

Inflammation is a natural defense mechanism that helps the body heal after an injury. However, when it becomes chronic, it can place additional strain on the body and significantly affect a pet’s quality of life.

One of the most common examples is osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint condition that occurs more frequently in older dogs and cats.

What Is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis develops as the cartilage that protects the joints gradually wears down.

Over time, movement can become more difficult and painful, while chronic inflammation can have a significant impact on an animal’s everyday life.

Factors that can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis include:

• Advanced age
• Previous injuries
• Congenital orthopedic conditions, such as hip dysplasia
• Obesity, which places additional stress on the joints

Pain Can Also Change Your Pet’s Behavior

When a pet is in pain, it is not only their mobility that can be affected.

They may become more withdrawn, avoid being petted, or even react differently when you touch a sensitive area.

Some animals may eat less, not because they dislike their food, but because even the journey to their food bowl can cause discomfort.

Others may sleep more or stop taking part in the everyday activities they once enjoyed with the family.

Sometimes, what looks like “grumpiness” or “laziness” is actually your pet’s way of telling you that something is wrong.

When Should You Visit the Veterinarian?

If you notice persistent changes in your pet’s behavior or mobility, it is a good idea to consult your veterinarian.

Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in managing pain and improving your pet’s quality of life.

Depending on the individual case, your veterinarian may recommend diagnostic tests, lifestyle changes, weight management, medication, or supplements that support joint health.

The Right Daily Care Can Make a Difference

Prevention remains one of the most important tools for maintaining good health.

Maintaining a healthy body weight, providing gentle daily exercise, and offering a complete and balanced diet all contribute to overall well-being and healthy joint function.

As part of this approach, complete Tanko foods, including the Belize and Welly ranges, provide high-quality, easily digestible ingredients and balanced nutritional support for the daily needs of dogs and cats. They can therefore form part of a comprehensive approach to care throughout every stage of your pet’s life.

Why September Matters

Animal Pain Awareness Month, an initiative supported by the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM), reminds us that our pets cannot tell us in words when they are in pain.

But they can show us.

We simply need to pay attention to the small changes in their everyday lives.

Because that, after all, is what family is for.