Pain Management
The importance of veterinary pain management has been well-documented over the years. Like humans, pain in our animal companions can lead to prolonged or difficult healing and a reduced quality of life. Pain relief for pets is an essential part of modern veterinary medicine, and we at Lakewood Veterinary Center believe that no animal should ever suffer needless pain.
We believe in a multi-modal approach to pain control, which refers to the use of different types of prescription medications along with supplements, nerve blocks, and laser therapy to help control pain. Many drugs and therapies work synergistically, enhancing their pain control action when used together.
Pain assessment in animals can often be challenging, as many pets (cats in particular) are adept at masking signs of pain or illness. Additionally, gradual changes are often attributed to a pet just “slowing down”—when, in fact, it could be a symptom of treatable pain.
Look for these indications that your pet might be experiencing pain:
- Lethargy
- Unwillingness to exercise or play
- Limping
- Difficulty laying down or standing up
- Difficulty jumping up or down or using stairs
- Restlessness, pacing, or excessive panting
- Loss of appetite
- Change in behavior (aggression or irritability)
- Licking/chewing excessively in a specific area
If you are concerned that your pet might be painful, call us today at (214) 826-4800.
