Primary Care

Pain Management

It is a very common myth that animals feel less pain than people do. Animals express their pain in a whole different language than humans do, and we speak that language here at VCA Westbury!

Once we have identified acute or chronic pain in your dog or cat, we have various methods and means available for addressing it- and a combination of several usually works best. These may include medications, laser therapy, physical therapy, correction of underlying disease or illness, weight loss and other options. Detection of acute (sudden) pain is often far more straightforward for pet owners than chronic pain. We will combine the historical information you provide us with a physical exam and other diagnostic tools to carefully assess where, and why, your pet hurts- and then we will provide you a plan for alleviating the pain. You can help start this process by answering these questions about your dog or cat in the home environment.

If the answer to any of these is YES, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us for an exam and evaluation.

Does your Cat……

  • Display reduced activity?
  • Have a decrease in appetite?
  • Seem more quiet? Less curious?
  • Sleep more?
  • Exhibit changes in litterbox habits?
  • Hide more?
  • Hiss? Spit? Growl? Flick her tail?
  • Have trouble jumping or moving around? Have a stiff gait?
  • Lick or groom an area excessively? Or groom herself less?
  • Guard or avoid touch in an area of the body?
  • Have weight loss or gain?

Does your Dog….

  • Display reduced activity?
  • Act less social or less happy to see loved ones?
  • Act anxious, or have an anxious expression?
  • Act submissively or avoid physical contact?
  • Move around less?
  • Sleep more?
  • Whimper/growl/howl?
  • Act aggressive or try to bite?
  • Exhibit decreased appetite?
  • Lick or chew parts of her body?
  • Sit, stand, or lie differently than usual?
  • Act restless during rest time? Pace? Pant?
  • Still jump into the car?