As pets age, many of them experience chronic pain, which often isn’t immediately visible. Identifying and treating this pain early on is a core focus in our Linz practice. Chronic pain can significantly impact quality of life and lead to issues such as:

• Delayed wound healing
• Weakened immune system
• Reduced activity levels
•  Muscle wasting
•  Poor circulation
• Decreased appetite
• Increased discomfort
  
  While acute pain is usually easy to detect due to obvious behavioral changes, chronic pain often manifests more subtly and can mistakenly be attributed to aging. Animals adapt to chronic pain and may not show clear signs. For example, dogs with arthritis might gradually become less active, while cats with back pain might avoid grooming certain areas.

Recognizing Pain and Conducting Thorough Assessments
Common signs of pain include drooling, favoring certain limbs, or changes in posture. Owners often attribute behaviors like withdrawal, increased sleeping, or reluctance to go for walks to aging. However, these are frequently symptoms of chronic pain, which can worsen over time if left untreated.

Our pain management consultations are designed to provide a comprehensive diagnosis and the best possible care. With modern pain management options, we have a range of treatments available, and we always start with the lowest effective dose. If necessary, we adjust medication or dosages individually to achieve optimal pain relief.
Chronic pain in older pets is not something that must simply be accepted. We are committed to improving your pet’s quality of life. If you suspect your pet is in pain, please contact us. Our pain management services are often available outside of regular office hours to ensure that we have the time needed to provide thorough care.