Pain management
Dogs and cats hide pain, so it is easy to miss. Our Woodbridge vets help you spot the signs, find the cause, and build a plan to keep your pet comfortable.
What happens at the visit
For pet owners in Woodbridge, a pain visit starts with a conversation. We will ask what changes you have noticed at home, when they started, and whether they come and go. Then the vet does a hands-on exam, gently checking joints, the spine, the belly, and the mouth. Depending on what we find, the vet may recommend lab work or x-rays to look for the cause. From there, we talk through a plan to keep your pet comfortable and how we will check that it is working.
If your dog or cat seems sore or is acting differently, call (703) 680-4646 or request an appointment.
Signs of pain in dogs
- Limping, stiffness, or trouble getting up
- Not wanting to use the stairs, jump in the car, or go for walks
- Panting or restlessness at rest
- Licking or chewing one spot over and over
- Growling or flinching when touched
Signs of pain in cats
Cats are very good at hiding discomfort, so the signs are often small. Watch for a cat who stops jumping onto the counter or bed, misses the litter box, hides more than usual, or stops grooming. A hunched posture, squinting eyes, or a sudden short temper can also point to pain. If something seems off, trust your instincts and call.
Arthritis in older pets
Arthritis is one of the most common reasons older dogs and cats hurt. It tends to come on slowly, so many owners chalk it up to age. A pet who is slower in the morning or no longer uses the stairs may be in real pain. Weight control, a good diet, gentle exercise, and pain control can help many pets move more easily. Our nutrition counseling can help if extra weight is part of the picture.
Comfort after surgery
Pain control is part of every surgery plan. The vet plans for comfort before, during, and after the procedure, and you will go home with clear directions. If your pet seems to be hurting more as the days go on, rather than less, call us.
Never give human pain medicine
If your pet has swallowed any human pain reliever, call (703) 680-4646 right away. Many common pain pills for people are toxic to dogs and cats, and some can be deadly to cats even in small amounts. Never give your pet anything from your medicine cabinet without talking to the vet first. If we are closed, see our after-hours emergency page.
Common questions
How can I tell if my cat is in pain?
Look for small changes, such as less jumping, hiding, a messy coat, or using spots outside the litter box. Any change in normal habits is worth a call.
Can I give my dog something from my medicine cabinet?
No. Human pain relievers can cause serious harm to pets. Call (703) 680-4646 first and let the vet recommend something safe.
Is my older dog just slowing down, or is it pain?
Stiffness, trouble on stairs, and less interest in walks are often signs of arthritis rather than simple aging. An exam can help sort that out.
Will my pet need tests for pain?
Sometimes. The vet may suggest lab work or x-rays to find the cause and to make sure the pain plan is safe for your pet.
How will my pet's pain be handled after surgery?
Comfort is planned into every procedure. You will get home care directions and can call with any questions during recovery.
Can weight loss help a pet with arthritis?
Yes. Extra weight puts more strain on sore joints, so reaching a healthy weight often makes a real difference.
What should I do if my pet ate a human pain pill?
Call (703) 680-4646 right away. If we are closed, go to our after-hours emergencies page for what to do next.
Questions, or ready to book?
Call us during open hours or send a request online and we will call you back to set a time.