At Redwood Pet Clinic, our veterinarians in Greenbrae, CA—and throughout the surrounding Marin County area—understand how hard it is to see your beloved pet in discomfort. Chronic pain in pets often goes unnoticed because dogs and cats instinctively mask signs of pain. That’s why our compassionate team at this Greenbrae animal hospital works hard to identify even the subtlest signs of pain and provide advanced treatment options. Whether your furry friend is slowing down or your feline companion is acting unusually withdrawn, it might be time for a pain evaluation.

Chronic pain in pets can result from arthritis, dental disease, injuries, or underlying medical conditions. While some signs may seem like a normal part of aging, persistent pain is never something your four-legged friend should have to “just live with.” This blog will explore how to recognize pain in dogs and cats, how veterinarians at Redwood Pet Clinic manage chronic inflammation, and what treatment options are available to support your furry bestie’s quality of life.

Understanding Chronic Pain in Dogs and Cats

Pain isn’t always obvious. Pets can’t tell us where it hurts, and many signs of discomfort are mistaken for behavioral changes or old age. Chronic pain in pets can be mild and consistent or flare up in waves, but it always affects your pet’s daily comfort.

Common Sources of Pain

Some of the most frequent causes of long-term discomfort in cats and dogs include:

• Osteoarthritis and joint degeneration

• Dental disease and infected teeth

• Cancer-related pain

• Post-surgical discomfort

• Chronic inflammation from internal conditions like pancreatitis or inflammatory bowel disease

Whether your pooch is dealing with a long-term orthopedic issue or your kitty has oral pain, identifying the root cause is the first step toward relief.

Subtle Signs Your Pet Is in Pain

Pets rarely cry out or whimper unless pain is sudden and severe. Instead, they may show changes in behavior, posture, or daily habits. As your trusted Greenbrae veterinary clinic, we want to help you know what to watch for.

Signs of Pain in Dogs

• Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or go for walks

• Limping or stiffness, especially after resting

• Increased panting or restlessness

• Sensitivity to touch

• Changes in eating or sleeping patterns

If your canine pal suddenly avoids activities they used to love, it’s time to talk to a vet.

Signs of Pain in Cats

• Reduced grooming (or overgrooming sore areas)

• Hiding more than usual

• Hesitation to jump onto furniture

• Decreased appetite or grumpiness

• Litter box avoidance due to mobility issues

Fluffy may not complain, but she’ll definitely let you know something’s off—if you know what to look for.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Chronic Pain

At Redwood Pet Clinic, we use a combination of physical exams, medical history, behavior observations, and sometimes diagnostic imaging to pinpoint the source of chronic pain in pets. Our Greenbrae veterinarians look for compensatory behaviors, subtle limping, and muscular changes to uncover hidden discomfort.

Depending on your pet’s symptoms, we may recommend:

• X-rays or ultrasound to evaluate joints and organs

• Bloodwork to detect inflammation or chronic disease

• Pain assessment scoring systems tailored for dogs and cats

The more information we have, the better we can tailor a pain management plan for your furry pal.

Managing Chronic Pain in Pets: What Works

Pain management isn’t one-size-fits-all. The best veterinary clinics, like Redwood Pet Clinic, create custom treatment plans based on your pet’s needs, personality, and condition. Our goal is always to minimize discomfort while maximizing mobility and quality of life.

Common Pain Relief Options

We may recommend a combination of:

• Anti-inflammatory medications (used carefully with monitoring)

• Joint supplements and nutritional support

• Laser therapy to reduce inflammation and stimulate healing

• Acupuncture (offered by certified practitioners)

• Physical rehabilitation and low-impact exercises

• Weight management for improved mobility

Your dog’s joint pain or your cat’s stiff movements can be dramatically improved with the right combination of therapies. You can learn more about recognizing signs of pain in dogs at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine website here. The Blue Cross has information on signs of pain in cats on their website here.

Chronic Inflammation in Pets: The Silent Saboteur

One of the most misunderstood contributors to chronic pain is low-grade inflammation. This slow, persistent condition can cause long-term damage and discomfort. In cats and dogs, chronic inflammation is often seen in:

• Joints (as in arthritis)

• Digestive system (such as inflammatory bowel disease)

• Skin (like allergic dermatitis)

• Gums and teeth (from untreated dental disease)

Left unchecked, inflammation can lead to more serious conditions. That’s why regular visits to a vet near you are critical—even if your pet “seems fine.”

Improving Quality of Life for Pets with Chronic Pain

At Redwood Pet Clinic, our veterinarians don’t just treat pain—we help your pet thrive. Chronic pain can affect your furry companion’s mood, appetite, energy, and connection with your family. That’s why our Greenbrae vet clinic takes a whole-pet approach to care.

What You Can Do at Home

Partnering with your vet is just the beginning. You can support your pet by:

• Providing a soft, warm place to sleep

• Using ramps or stairs to reduce joint strain

• Encouraging gentle play or low-impact walks

• Feeding a joint-supportive diet

• Scheduling regular wellness visits to monitor changes

Your four-legged buddy deserves to feel safe, comfortable, and loved every day—especially when navigating chronic conditions.

FAQ: Chronic Pain in Pets

How do I know if my pet’s slowing down due to age or pain?

Always assume there’s a reason for behavior changes. Slowing down may be due to discomfort, not just age. A veterinary exam can tell the difference. 

Watching for signs of pain is just part of being a good pet parent. Of course, that’s just one aspect of it. Click here to read our blog about common pet care mistakes to avoid.

Can pain medication be used long-term?

Yes, but only under veterinary supervision. We monitor liver and kidney function and adjust dosages to ensure safety.

Is arthritis curable in pets?

It’s not curable, but it is manageable. Early diagnosis and proactive care can dramatically improve mobility and comfort.

My cat still jumps and eats—could she still be in pain?

Absolutely. Cats are masters at hiding discomfort. Even active cats can suffer from joint, dental, or abdominal pain.

Visit Our Greenbrae, CA Veterinary Clinic for Chronic Pain Relief

If you’ve noticed changes in your dog or cat’s behavior, mobility, or mood, don’t wait. Chronic pain in pets can often be managed or even reversed with timely veterinary care. At Redwood Pet Clinic in Greenbrae, CA, our experienced veterinarians are here to help your furry bestie feel better, move easier, and enjoy life to the fullest.

Are you looking for a trustworthy vet near me in Greenbrae? Call Redwood Pet Clinic today to schedule an appointment. Let’s work together to give your four-legged friend the comfort and care they deserve. Visit our Service page here for details about our pet clinic and the pets we treat.

This blog is meant to be informational only. Always consult with your veterinarian for the right medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment plan for your pet and follow their advice.