Published by: Ingrid King. Last Updated on: February 7, 2023 by Crystal Uys
In March, I introduced you to a feline behavior quiz developed by British veterinarian Mike Farrell, BVetMed CertVA CertSAS Diplomat ECVS MRCVS, an orthopedic surgeon with a strong interest in chronic pain management. Thank you to al of you who took the quiz!
Dr. Farrell’s study is designed to provide pet parents and veterinary surgeons free access to clear and simple decision-making aids when it comes to dealing with cats in pain. “We currently rely on behavioral clues such as willingness to exercise and ability to jump, groom and interact,” says Dr. Farrell.
Dr. Farrell analyzed the data collected from the original quiz, and created a new interactive survey that incorporates the data and allows you to compare your cat’s habits with those of normal cats, and those of cats dealing with chronic pain. I was honored that Dr. Farrell asked for my input into his survey.
Please take a few minutes to complete the new survey. The results will not only help Dr. Farrell’s research, but they will provide insight into your cat’s behavior.
If the survey won’t open for you by clicking on the image above, click here to take the survey.
About the author
Ingrid King is an award-winning author, former veterinary hospital manager, and veterinary journalist who is passionate about cats.
I think they should also ask what health conditions your cat is currently having. For example, Alli has diabetes, asthma, chronic pancreatitis, and most significantly, Chronic Kidney Disease. Some of her abnormal behaviour can be attributed to these illnesses. If they don’t want to ask what specific illnesses each cat has, they could just ask whether or not the cat has any current illnesses or chronic illnesses, and how severe these illnesses are… and maybe if her behaviour changed before or after the illnesses began.
They put a lot of work into the quiz. Thanks for sharing. It will be useful in the future.
Comment
I was told by a veterinarian that cats in pain drool!
Is this true?
My 5 year old Tuxedo neutered male drools every time he sleeps. So is he ONLY in pain when he sleeps?
I know he had really bad breath and I imagine it’s his teeth but I cannot afford to have a full dental done on him. I am retired and on a very tight fixed income?
HELP
The combination of bad breath and drooling is usually a sign of advanced dental pain. Please find a way to take your cat to a vet to get this addressed sooner rather than later. These organizations can help with veterinary bills: https://www.gofundme.com/c/blog/help-with-vet-bills