Changes in Eating or Drinking Habits – Loss of appetite or drinking less/more water than usual can signal dental pain, illness, or kidney issues.
Hiding or Avoiding Interaction – Cats in pain often hide under furniture or avoid people. – They may become less playful or social than usual.
Excessive Grooming or Lack of Grooming – Overgrooming one area could mean pain or irritation. – A lack of grooming may indicate discomfort, arthritis, or illness.
Unusual Aggression or Irritability – A normally friendly cat may hiss, growl, or swat when touched. – Pain can make them more defensive or unwilling to be handled.
Limping or Difficulty Moving – Struggling to jump, climb, or walk could indicate joint pain, arthritis, or injury. – Sudden lameness may be an emergency.
Changes in Litter Box Behavior – Avoiding the litter box may signal urinary tract infections, arthritis, or digestive pain. – Straining or crying while using the litter box is a red flag.