Signs Your Cat May Be in Pain and How to Identify Them

Cats are masters at hiding discomfort, making it difficult for owners to know when their feline friends are in pain. Recognizing the signs early can make a huge difference in your cat’s health and comfort. This guide explains how to tell if your cat is in pain, what behaviors to watch for, and practical ways to check their health, including how to check a cat’s pulse and understand their heart rate.

A calm cat resting quietly on a blanket

How Cats Show Pain Differently

Cats don’t usually cry out or show obvious signs when they hurt. Instead, they may change their behavior in subtle ways. Some common signs include:

• Hiding more than usual

Cats often retreat to quiet, hidden spots when they feel unwell or hurt.

• Changes in appetite

A cat in pain might eat less or stop eating altogether.

• Altered grooming habits

You may notice your cat grooming less or over-grooming a painful area.

• Vocal changes

Some cats may meow more or less, or make unusual sounds.

• Limping or difficulty moving

Watch for stiffness, limping, or reluctance to jump or climb.

• Aggression or irritability

Pain can make cats more defensive or quick to snap.

• Changes in posture

A cat in pain might sit or lie in unusual positions to avoid pressure on sore areas.

Understanding these signs helps you spot pain early, even if your cat doesn’t seem to be in distress.

Do Cats Purr When They Are in Pain?

Many cat owners wonder, do cats purr when they are in pain? The answer is yes, but it’s complicated. Purring is often associated with contentment, but cats also purr when they are stressed, scared, or in pain. This behavior might be a self-soothing mechanism or a way to promote healing.

If your cat is purring but showing other signs of distress, such as hiding or limping, it’s important not to assume they are fine. Pay attention to the full picture of their behavior.

How to Check a Cat’s Pulse and Heart Rate

Knowing how to check your cat’s pulse and understand their heart rate can help you monitor their health and detect pain or illness early.

How to Check a Cat’s Pulse

1. Find a quiet spot where your cat feels calm.

2. Locate the femoral artery on the inside of the cat’s thigh. You can feel a pulse by gently pressing your fingers there.

3. Count the beats for 15 seconds and multiply by 4 to get beats per minute.

   
   

What Is a Normal Heart Rate for a Cat?

A normal heart rate for a cat ranges between 140 and 220 beats per minute. This rate can vary depending on activity, stress, or illness. If your cat’s heart rate is consistently outside this range, especially if it’s very high or low, consult your veterinarian.

Why Monitor the Cat’s Heart Rate?

Pain, stress, or illness can cause changes in the cat’s heart rate. For example, a cat in pain may have an elevated heart rate. Checking the pulse regularly can help you notice these changes early.

Close-up of a cat’s inner thigh with fingers checking pulse

Other Physical Signs of Pain in Cats

Besides changes in behavior and heart rate, physical signs can indicate pain:

• Dilated pupils or squinting

• Rapid breathing or panting

• Trembling or shaking

• Swelling or lumps on the body

• Sensitivity to touch

• Changes in litter box habits such as straining or avoiding the box

  
  

If you notice any of these signs, especially combined with behavioral changes, your cat may be in pain.

What to Do If You Suspect Your Cat Is in Pain

If you think your cat is hurting, here are steps to take:

• Observe carefully for any changes in behavior or physical signs.

• Check the pulse and heart rate to see if they are abnormal.

• Avoid forcing your cat to move if they seem stiff or reluctant.

• Keep your cat comfortable with a quiet, warm place to rest.

• Contact your veterinarian for advice and possible examination.

  
  

Pain in cats can come from many causes, including injury, arthritis, dental problems, or internal illness. Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes.

Understanding Cat Purring in Pain

Since many cat owners ask, do cat purr when they are in pain, it’s important to understand this behavior. Purring can mean:

• Contentment and relaxation

• Stress relief or self-soothing

• Communication of discomfort or pain

  
  

If your cat is purring but also hiding, limping, or showing other signs of distress, it’s a signal to seek veterinary care rather than assume all is well.

A cat resting in a cozy bed with alert eyes

Summary

Cats are experts at hiding pain, but changes in behavior, appetite, grooming, and movement can reveal discomfort. Knowing how to check a cat’s pulse and understanding the normal heart rate for a cat helps you monitor their health closely. Remember that do cats purr when they are in pain is a complex question—purring can mean both comfort and distress.