If your pet were in pain, would you know it? Many pet owners are surprised to learn that dogs and cats are incredibly good at masking discomfort. This instinct to hide pain goes back to their wild ancestors, where showing weakness could make them vulnerable. But in a home setting, it means that health problems can go unnoticed until they become more serious. At Pet Care on Highland, we believe that early recognition and treatment of pain are key to a better quality of life for your pet.
Pain in pets can come from many sources—arthritis, dental disease, injury, surgery recovery, or internal conditions like pancreatitis or kidney issues. Sometimes the pain is acute and obvious, like limping or yelping. But more often, it's subtle. You might notice your dog hesitating to jump on the couch or your cat no longer leaping up to their favorite window perch. They may seem less playful, more withdrawn, or just “not quite themselves.”
Changes in behavior are often the first clue. A normally friendly pet who suddenly avoids touch or becomes unusually clingy may be experiencing discomfort. Pets in pain might pace, pant, hide, lick a particular area excessively, or have changes in appetite and sleep patterns. Cats may stop grooming themselves, while dogs might start chewing furniture or becoming vocal for seemingly no reason.
If you’re noticing any of these signs, it’s important to have your pet evaluated. At Pet Care on Highland, we take a comprehensive approach to pain management. We start with a thorough physical exam, review your pet’s history, and use diagnostics like X-rays or bloodwork to identify the root cause. Once we know what’s going on, we tailor a pain management plan that suits your pet’s condition, age, and lifestyle.
Pain management can include a combination of medications, joint supplements, lifestyle modifications, and even therapeutic options like laser therapy or physical rehabilitation. For chronic conditions like arthritis, we work with you to create a long-term strategy that keeps your pet comfortable while minimizing side effects.
Managing pain also means helping you adjust your home environment. Small changes—like using non-slip mats, orthopedic beds, or pet stairs—can make a big difference in how your pet moves and feels. We’ll also advise on weight management and appropriate exercise, since even a few extra pounds can put stress on already achy joints.
No pet should have to live with untreated pain, especially when there are so many effective ways to provide relief. Our team is committed to not just treating symptoms but improving your pet’s day-to-day comfort, mobility, and happiness.
If you think your pet might be in pain, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment at Pet Care on Highland today by callling (863) 937-7914 or give us quick visit at 222 West Highland Dr.,Lakeland, FL 33813. Together, we’ll uncover the cause and build a plan that helps your best friend get back to feeling like themselves again.
