The silent struggle: why cats hide pain (and how to spot it)

Cats are famously stoic. It’s often a toss-up whether that feline resting face is a loving gaze or a fierce death stare. Even purring can come from a place of contentment or “back off or else”.

The cat's inscrutability plateaus when it comes to pain or distress.

Long before they became our fuzzy companions and lords of the windowsill, cats did it tough out in the wild world. Survival meant hiding any signs of weakness from predators – a trait that persists today, even in the relative comfort of home.

This is a worry for modern cat parents, who can be left scratching their heads in the face of slight behavioural changes – or worse, blissfully unaware that something’s amiss.

While you know your cat best, a placid exterior doesn’t always mean everything's fine. Look for subtle changes in behaviour to reduce suffering, save money and even save lives.

Stiff upper lip

Masking pain or injury is baked into your cat’s DNA. Felines have a natural aversion to appearing vulnerable, even in the family home. Evolution has taught them that predators target the weak, so every effort is made – even subconsciously – to avoid looking infirm.

Unfortunately, this survival trait doesn’t serve them very well as modern pets. In fact, it’s almost the opposite. An afflicted cat determined to hide their pain can withdraw from the family and other pets, making it difficult to diagnose and seek treatment.

The risk of hidden pain

A cat’s efforts to hide their discomfort can lead to a delayed diagnosis. Acting early is always critical to avoid dire situations. In some cases, a matter of hours can make a big difference; urinary obstructions, which are common in cats of all ages, can become life-threatening if left unchecked.

“Early intervention is one of the best gifts we can give our cats,” says PetSure Senior Veterinary Officer Dr Betty Chan. “Catching problems early keeps them healthier, happier, and with us for longer.”

The longer an ailment is left to develop, the more complex and costly the treatment becomes. A routine dental cleaning, for instance, can quickly snowball into advanced surgery. Dental disease doesn’t stay still – it progresses. By delaying a simple scale and polish appointment, you could be ushering in major dental problems down the line, with major bills to match. Early action saves lives and money.

Signs cat parents might miss

That can be easier said than done, however. A cat’s poker face is among nature’s best and gives little away to the untrained eye. Look closer and you may notice subtle changes in your pet’s behaviour and appearance, but because cats are so adept at hiding pain, symptoms can go unrecognised until it’s too late.

That's why it's crucial to look for these signs of pain in cats and seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Some common indicators include:

• Changes in whisker position or facial expression (see feline grimace scale below)
• Aggression, irritability and/or reluctance to be handled
• Changes in litter tray behaviour
• Lack of interest in food
• Excessive meowing or growling, especially when handled

If your cat becomes withdrawn or aggressive, shows a sudden reluctance to be handled or begins isolating themselves from other pets or the family, it’s a sign that something’s amiss. This behaviour is part of the cat’s instinctive drive to hide their weakness.

As stony as it can seem, your cat’s face can also betray any pain behind the mask. The Feline Grimace Scale (see below) was developed to help with pain assessment in cats, with five points of interest (ears, eyes, muzzle, whiskers and head position) to consider.

Dental issues such as gum disease can be tough to identify as cats can be resistant to having their teeth and gums checked, but excessive drooling and changes in grooming behaviour or tilting their head to the side when eating can be an indication of pain in the mouth.

There may also be an underlying issue in play if your cat is no longer as lithe as they used to be. If a jump from the ground straight up to the kitchen bench or window sill is no longer achievable, or needs a stool or chair for assistance, it can often be a sign of arthritis or joint pain beneath the surface. Worse still, this ungainly movement can lead to greater injuries.

Any change in litter tray behaviour, such as frequent urination, missing the tray, blood in the urine or avoiding the tray altogether, could indicate bowel problems or a urinary tract disease. Urinary and kidney issues are common in cats, particularly as they approach middle age.

Lethargy or reduced energy is a clear sign something’s wrong. Because this could indicate many underlying issues, it’s a good opportunity to take your cat to the vet.

Remember, although your cat is not your ally when it comes to diagnosing possible health issues, your vet is. It’s important to work with your vet to determine precisely what’s going on with your cat’s wellbeing and to develop a healthcare plan. Regular vet check-ups should be part of your cat’s routine, and if you’re unable to determine the cause of your cat’s discomfort, the vet should be your next stop.

Feline grimace scale

Often when a cat is hiding their pain, their body language will give the game away. The Feline Grimace Scale is a quick and clear reference guide to any signs there's trouble beneath the surface. Changes in the ears, eyes, muzzle, whiskers and even the position of the head can indicate an underlying discomfort.

10 subtle signs your cat may be in pain

• Withdrawal from interaction around the house
• Reduced playfulness
• Lack of interest in food or changes in eating habits
• Less grooming or obsessive licking or chewing of one area
• Irritability or reduced affection
• Litter box changes: avoiding it, straining or missing
• Changes in mobility and posture: stiff movement, hesitation when jumping
• Excessive vocalisation
• Changes in facial expression (see Feline Grimace Scale)
• Lack of energy

Alert not alarmed

When it comes to cats and their wellbeing, even the smallest change matters. If something feels off, trust your instincts and look closer. Although your cat’s instinct is to give nothing away, there are tells that point to the truth. The sooner you act, the better the outcome for your furry friend.

And remember, not all changes are indicative of some greater and more sinister health issues – sometimes it’s just your cat’s way of asking for more love. Even so, it’s important to follow up on anything you notice and get your vet involved if necessary.

If you’re unsure, VetChat is available 24/7 to give you expert opinions and peace of mind.

FAQs

Q: What are the most common health conditions in Australian cats?

The most common health conditions in Australian cats are gastrointestinal issues, urinary tract disorders, skin allergies, eye and ear infections, osteoarthritis and heart murmurs. According to PetSure's FY25 claims data, these conditions affect cats across all life stages and breeds — from Domestic Short Hairs to Ragdolls. Recognising early signs and seeking timely veterinary care can significantly improve outcomes and reduce long-term costs.

Q: Why are kittens more vulnerable to illness in their first year?

Kittens are more vulnerable in their first year because their immune systems are still developing and their natural curiosity exposes them to parasites, toxins and foreign objects. PetSure FY25 claims data shows gastrointestinal issues, eye infections and ear infections are the top three claim categories for cats under one. Building an early relationship with your local vet is one of the most effective ways to protect them during this formative stage.

Q: Is it normal for cats to get urinary tract infections?

Yes, urinary tract issues are unfortunately common in cats, especially male cats who often don't drink enough water. PetSure FY25 claims data ranks urinary disorders as the second-most claimed condition for adult cats aged 1–8. Providing constant fresh water, encouraging hydration through wet food, and watching for signs like straining, blood in urine or frequent litter tray visits can help catch issues early.

Q: How much does it cost to treat common cat health conditions in Australia?

Treatment costs for common cat conditions in Australia can range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands. PetSure FY25 claims data shows gastrointestinal treatment averages around $900 but can reach nearly $27,000, while a single urinary tract disorder claim has cost over $38,000. Mass lesions, which mostly affect older cats, have reached almost $35,000 — which is why many Australian cat owners use pet insurance to manage unexpected vet costs.

Q: What should cat owners know about osteoarthritis in older cats?

Osteoarthritis is a common condition in older cats, but early signs can actually begin in kittenhood, making lifelong observation important. Senior cats may show subtle symptoms like reduced jumping, stiffness after rest, reluctance to climb, or changes in grooming habits. Regular vet check-ups, joint-friendly bedding and weight management can ease discomfort and help your cat stay comfortable in their twilight years.

Q: How can I help my cat live a longer, healthier life?

You can help your cat live a longer, healthier life through preventative care, regular vet visits, a safe home environment and awareness of breed-specific risks. Providing fresh water, a stimulating space, quality nutrition and early intervention at the first sign of illness all make a meaningful difference. Many Australian cat owners also take out pet insurance early to ensure they can afford the best care when unexpected health issues arise.

Q: Should I get pet insurance for my cat, and when is the best time to start?

Taking out pet insurance for your cat is worth considering early — ideally when they're still a healthy kitten — because policies generally don't cover pre-existing conditions. With cat treatment costs ranging from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars for serious conditions like urinary disorders or mass lesions, insurance can help manage unexpected vet bills. Starting early ensures fewer exclusions and broader long-term coverage as your cat ages.

Q: What everyday household items are toxic to cats?

Several everyday household items are toxic to cats, with lilies being one of the most dangerous — even pollen contact can be life-threatening. Other common hazards include essential oils, certain houseplants, human medications, chocolate, onions, garlic, and string-like objects that can cause intestinal blockages. If you suspect your cat has ingested something toxic, contact your vet or an emergency animal hospital immediately.

Q: What are the signs my cat might be unwell?

Common signs your cat may be unwell include changes in appetite or thirst, lethargy, hiding, vomiting or diarrhoea, straining in the litter tray, weight loss, dull coat or unusual vocalising. Cats are masters at hiding discomfort, so even subtle behavioural changes can indicate an underlying issue. When in doubt, a quick call or visit to your vet is always the safest course of action.