Recognizing the Subtle Signs of Pain in Dogs and Cats

Cory Korsgen • May 9, 2025

The BEAP Pain Scales: A Tool for Awareness

As pet parents, we wish our beloved companions could tell us when they’re hurting. But pets—especially cats and senior dogs—are often incredibly skilled at hiding their discomfort. This makes it challenging to know when something is wrong until the pain becomes advanced.

At Dr. Cory’s Guiding Light, we believe that understanding the early signs of pain is key to ensuring your pet lives with comfort, dignity, and the love they deserve—especially in their senior years.

Why Pets Hide Pain
Hiding pain is a survival instinct for animals. In the wild, vulnerability can make them a target. This instinct remains strong, even in our well-loved pets at home. That’s why it’s important to watch for behavioral changes, not just dramatic symptoms.

The BEAP Pain Scales: A Tool for Awareness
The BEAP Pain Scales, developed by MN Pets, are a compassionate resource that helps caregivers identify signs of pain in both dogs and cats. BEAP stands for:

Behavior

Energy

Appetite

Posture

Let’s break this down for each species:

Signs of Pain in Dogs
Dogs may not whine or yelp when something hurts. Instead, they may:

Limp or have trouble standing up and lying down

Sleep more or appear withdrawn

Show less interest in food or play

Become irritable or more sensitive to touch

Avoid stairs, jumping, or long walks they once enjoyed

Signs of Pain in Cats
Cats are notoriously stoic and often mask pain until it’s severe. Look for:

Grooming less or appearing unkempt

Avoiding high surfaces they used to jump on

Hiding or isolating from the family

Reduced appetite or subtle weight loss

Restlessness or a change in sleep patterns

What You Can Do
If you recognize any of these signs, it’s time to act. Don’t assume your pet is “just getting old.” Pain is not a normal part of aging, and support is available.

Schedule a veterinary evaluation
Discuss pain management or hospice options
Consider an in-home consultation where your pet feels most comfortable

Compassionate Support in Bergen County, NJ
At Dr. Cory’s Guiding Light, we offer in-home assessments for senior pets and those with chronic conditions. Whether your pet needs pain management, hospice care, or peaceful in-home euthanasia, we’re here to help with warmth, dignity, and deep respect for your bond.

Serving Bergen County and surrounding areas.
Contact us to discuss your pet’s comfort or to schedule a visit.