Top 5 Causes of Chronic Pain in Pets and How to Manage Them
What looks like aging in dogs and cats is often chronic pain. The International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management puts it simply — “Animals suffer from pain just like people do,” and chronic pain is often subtle, hiding behind behavior changes or slowing down.
At Koala Health, we’re dedicated to helping pet parents and vets when their animals are suffering from chronic pain. Whether it’s prescription medications, daily supplements, or other vet-approved products, we provide the resources you need to keep your pets comfortable, active, and thriving. The first step families can take to ensuring the pet is healthy and not in pain is by understanding the most common causes of chronic pain.
Joint and Mobility Pain
Joint and mobility issues are among the most common sources of chronic pain in pets. Early signs of joint pain for dogs may be seen if they start to hesitate to climb stairs, struggle to get up after resting, or seem reluctant to jump on the couch, these can be early signs of joint pain. Pain in cats tends to be even more subtle—sometimes the only clues are refusing to jump to higher places, sleeping more than usual, or becoming less social. Because pets rarely cry out or limp until pain is severe, these everyday behavior changes can be a big tell that something is wrong.
With lifestyle adjustments, it’s possible to improve their quality of life. Maintaining a healthy weight significantly reduces strain put on the joints, while regular low-impact exercise such as swimming or steady paced walking helps preserve mobility. In addition, supplements like omega-3 fatty acids have demonstrated anti-inflammatory benefits, while glucosamine and chondroitin are commonly used for joint support. For pets with more advanced pain, veterinarians may recommend prescription medications such as NSAIDs or injectable therapies.
Routine vet visits play an important role in keeping pets comfortable as they age. By combining what owners observe at home with the findings from a physical exam, veterinarians can often spot early changes before they progress. Keeping a simple log of your pet’s mobility, energy, or any changes in their daily habits can also make a big difference—it helps your vet understand what’s going on at home and adjust the care plan so your pet can stay active and happy.
These strategies can help manage pain, improve comfort, and support long-term mobility to improve the pet’s quality of life (VCA Hospitals).
Oral Discomfort
Unfortunately, oral and dental pain in pets is often overlooked. Pets may show subtle signs such as dropping food, avoiding hard treats, eating more slowly, refusing toys, or appearing indifferent at mealtime. Conditions like gum disease, tooth decay, and oral infections are not only painful but can also affect overall health.
Pets rarely display obvious discomfort, regular dental checkups are essential. Tooth wear, dental attrition, and abrasion—often from chewing hard objects like bones or toys—can cause serious enamel loss and expose sensitive dentin or pulp, leading to chronic pain (Spruce Pets).
Protecting your pet’s oral health starts with gentle at-home brushing and providing veterinarian-recommended dental chews. Regular veterinary dental exams and professional cleanings are crucial for preventing and managing chronic dental pain. These evaluations can identify issues such as tartar buildup, gum disease, or tooth fractures that may not be visible without expert assessment.
Muscle Strain and Tension
Pets may experience soft-tissue pain as a result of compensating for joint discomfort, such as favoring a limb, which can lead to chronic muscle strain, tightness, or inflammation (PetMD). Signs may include stiffness, awkward posture, slower grooming, or hesitation to jump or stretch. In some cases, muscle injuries like strains or tears may occur due to sudden movements or trauma. Treatment for these injuries often involves lots of rest, cold compresses, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and swelling. Depending on the severity of the injury and the veterinarian’s recommendation, physical therapy may be suggested after a period of rest to support recovery and restore mobility.
To support your pet’s recovery from muscle strain or tension, consider trying gentle stretching exercises and low-impact activities like walking or swimming. These can help build muscle strength without overstressing the body. For targeted rehabilitation, consult with a veterinarian or a certified canine rehabilitation therapist to develop a personalized plan that addresses your pet’s specific needs.
Skin Sensitivities
Persistent licking, scratching, biting at the skin, hair loss, or rubbing against objects can indicate that a pet is experiencing skin issues. These behaviors may result from a variety of conditions which can include inflammation, allergic reactions, nerve irritation, or other dermatological problems. Common causes include allergic dermatitis, parasitic infections such as fleas, mites, or ticks, bacterial or fungal skin infections that can be worsened by scratching, and neurological disorders that may lead to heightened skin sensitivity and unusual grooming behaviors (American Kennel Club).
To help manage skin discomfort, Koala Health provides veterinarian-approved supplements and topical treatments that support healthy skin, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. When used alongside a veterinarian’s guidance to address the underlying cause, these supportive products can significantly improve a pet’s comfort and overall quality of life.
Previous Injuries or Surgeries
Even after a pet seems fully recovered from an injury or surgery, lingering pain can persist depending on the severity and location of the injury. Signs may include stiffness, reduced mobility, or uneven weight-bearing, which can indicate that scar tissue, nerve sensitivity, or compensatory movement patterns are still causing discomfort.
Canine rehabilitation therapy, including techniques like gentle stretching, massages, hydrotherapy, and guided exercises, can help restore mobility, strengthen the muscles, and reduce pain. Working closely with a veterinarian to create a tailored rehabilitation plan ensures the pet regains function safely, improves overall comfort, and maintains a better quality of life (American Kennel Club).
Take Action and Keep Alert
Chronic pain in pets is often subtle but can significantly impact mobility, behavior, and overall well-being. Understanding common causes—joint issues, oral discomfort, muscle strain, skin sensitivities, and lingering post-injury pain—helps pet parents recognize the early warning signs to take quick action.
Working with a veterinarian on a routine basis is the key. Regular checkups, dental exams combined with supportive strategies like gentle exercise, targeted rehabilitation, and veterinarian-approved supplements or topical treatments, can make a meaningful difference in a pet’s comfort. We here at Koala Health are always here to help.
__________________________________________________________________
Disclaimer
The information provided on the Koala Health blog is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not veterinarians, and the content shared should not be interpreted as medical advice for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian or a qualified animal healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your pet's health or medical conditions. __________________________________________________________________