Consult your vet if your cat is experiencing pain

If you suspect that your cat may be in pain, the first and most important thing to do is contact your veterinarian — immediately. Don't wait to see whether your cat's situation improves. Call your vet to discuss your observations and schedule an appointment to have your pet examined. Your vet will be able to evaluate your pet's health and, if necessary, suggest an appropriate course of treatment that may include prescription pain relief.

Other things you can do to help

If your veterinarian diagnosed that your cat is in pain, he or she may have prescribed a medication for pain relief. In addition to treating your cat with medication, there are a number of things you can do to ease pain and speed recovery or help keep your cat more comfortable.

• Provide your cat with a comfortable blanket, pillow, or cat bed in a quiet area where your pet can relax and sleep in peace.
• Ensure all the essentials — food, water, and litter box — are easily accessible, fresh, and clean.
• Check in on your cat often. It gives you an opportunity to monitor their situation and gives your pet the comfort of your presence.
• If your cat is suffering from reduced or limited mobility, do what you can to help them get around the house. Set up pet steps to make it easier for your pet to get up or down from their favourite sleeping place or on your furniture or bed.
• Safeguard your cat from children or other family pets that, despite their best intentions, may make it difficult for your pet to get the rest it needs.