September is Animal Pain Awareness Month! Even the best pet parents sometimes can’t pick up on subtle, gradual changes in a pet’s behavior, mood, or activity level over time. Many pet parents will chalk subtle behavior changes to aging or an older pet just “slowing down.” However, aging is not an illness and should not be painful. It’s so important to keep a close eye on pets activities, eating habits, and personality changes so that you can seek veterinary treatment for possible problems as early as possible. There are many common changes that may signal your pet needs medical intervention. Please take note and be on the look-out for the following: • Decreased play and activity • Not going up or downstairs • Anxiety • Weight loss • Whimpering • Reluctance to jump (especially for cats) • Difficulty standing after lying down • Decreased appetite • Over-grooming or licking a specific area of the body • Growling or guarding behavior in dogs • Hissing or spitting in cats • Changes in urination or defecation habits • Lethargy/loss of interest in social interaction The sooner you recognize changes in your pet, the sooner your veterinarian can assess the situation and determine an effective treatment plan. Our Team at Ou Kaapse Vet are always on hand to assist. Please call us on 021 715 7517 to secure your appointment.