Essential Feline Mental Health Facts, Orange Purr-fection: 21 Fun Facts About Ginger Cats, Top 8 Natural Sedatives For Cats: Safe Ways To Relax A Cat. There needs to be more research in the field of cat health in this particular area. Cats, just like dogs, form special and tight-knit bonds with their owners. Felines cannot get human bugs, so you do not have to stress over sharing contamination. Even a change of body temperature might be something they pick up on as well. Ive always wondered if she knows it hurts me to just blink at times and she doesnt want to hurt me. Some cats prefer to avoid eating when they dont feel well. Other causes can include: Migraines manifest as an intense pain pulse from deep within your head, usually only on one side. Headaches are a normal part of most life and having the ability to identify the symptoms is the best way to get your cat back to feeling normal. Do not ever give cats medications that humans take for headaches. Behavior changes can be a sign of dental issues in cats. The same cat will paw incessantly at my face in the middle of the night insisting that I go to the bathroom. Your toddler will point to where it hurts. And hope we hit upon one that does as little harm as possible in our quest to bring them back to what we assume is their normal state. Tumors grow and put additional pressure and inflammation in the head region. This is usually attributed to pulled muscles. The causes of headaches in cats include dehydration, heat exhaustion, trauma, and a loss of appetite. And more than 50% of respondents report that their cats sense both physical and Our vet couldnt find anything wrong with him but he was doing everything you mentioned in your article. {"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"FAQPage","mainEntity":[{"@type":"Question","name":"How can you tell if an animal has a headache? To make things worse, once the migraine passes, you dont feel brand new. Migraines place incredible stress on the human body and the heart rate is no exception. Botox injections. Other medical conditions, such as dental problems or hormonal imbalances, can cause headache-like symptoms in both younger and senior cats. Webcat-allergies. Never administer pain medication without consulting a vet. As cat owners, its natural to be concerned about the well-being and health of our furry friends. WebResearchers haven't fully connected the dots between migraine headaches and moodiness. At the time of admission to the teaching hospital they were occurring monthly. Since we cant ask them, cat parents need to watch for signs that their kitty could have a headache or be in pain. They can sense even the slightest changes in atmospheric pressure, sounds, and smells. The owners became very astute at recognizing the onset of episodes and used the drug only as needed. This could be an infection in the mouth, tooth pain, or overheating. What are omega-3s, and why does my cat need them? There is also the fact that humans can communicate when theyre in pain, but cats cant. Is There Any Scientific Research About The Occurrence Of Headaches And Migraines In Felines? Copyright 2012 2023 | The Catnip Times, Inc | All Rights Reserved, Registering Your Cat As An Emotional Support Animal. A cats natural instinct when it feels unwell due to illness or injury is to hide, even from its owner. For animals we have to guess. So, better to stay away from your feline friend. Some common causes of these symptoms in cats include: Cats can develop infections in their sinuses, ears, or other parts of the head, which can cause headache-like symptoms. A human cold is indisputable for a cat. Some veterinarians believe cats may be capable of experiencing headaches, but there is limited research on the subject. It is theorized that biochemical signals are released as the body shuts down, perceptible to cats and dogs before we can discern a change. However, cats have strong senses and can pick up on a lot that we as humans cannot. Do Chickens Feel Physical and Emotional Pain? And as a veterinarian, how can articulating that curiosity and investigating itnot help me arrive at better decisions? Answered by Dr. Joanna Woodnutt, MRCVS (Vet), Lymphadenopathy in Cats: Signs, Causes & Care, Dog Breaks or Tears a Nail? WebThere is also some evidence that suggests that cats can sense illnesses and changes in peoples bodies such as pregnancies and even impending strokes and seizures. So, sure, its totally possible that your cat could have a headache. However, cats have their own personalities. It may hide where none can see, or it may isolate itself where none can reach. Causes of headaches also include stress, certain foods, changes in sleep patterns, and hormonal changes. WebSeveral cats have been documented to sense diabetes, migraines, cancer, and even depression in their owners. Sense of well-being; Suspecting a migraine type condition, the doctors then put her on a drug used to treat human migraines, called topiramate. Clusters can be contained to hours, days, weeks, or months. , a new scoring system can even help veterinarians use a cats facial expression to determine how much pain theyre in. Hhmmmm, I would venture that some cats aren't as intuitive as others. If your cat is refusing to eat, it may develop a headache. Cats have allergies, too, and most vets believe that it could trigger a headache on occasion. However, its not easy to tell when a headache occurs. If your cat withdraws from your touch, where it normally wouldnt, then it may have a headache. Overheating and Dehydration. Arthritis in cats: signs, relief, and treatment. They will come to massage their owners head while suffering a migraine. Be vigilant about actions of your cat, however. That is due to the reason that all mammals are successors of an ancient animal which were there during the time of the dinosaurs. Whats more, when you regularly maintain their litter box, you can keep tabs on digestion issues and urinary problems. So far we have no idea what it all means. If your cat wasnt careful, they could have bumped their head or pulled a muscle in their neck, resulting in a headache. We dont have much to go on when it comes to headachesor pain, in general. However, that doesnt mean our experiences dont hold. Whether youre a seasoned cat owner or new to the world of feline care, this article will provide you with valuable insights and help you better care for your beloved feline! Her physical exam, blood and urine test, and specialty test were all normal. Cats overheat easily and it isnt unlikely for a headache to take place. If your cat is close to you, this would not be ignored. Ensure that it is exposed to ambient temperature airflow, such as a fan. Ensuring that your cat always has access to fresh, clean water will go a long way to preventing headaches. The best vitamins and supplements for senior dogs, 8 experts share their best dog training tips, Here's how to give special dogs a special home, The best pet insurance companies reviewed, 10 ways to encourage your cat to drink water, The cost of a cat, from adoption to emergencies, 4 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight. (An Overview), Homemade Grain-Free Cat Treats 4 Easy Recipes (Vet Approved), How to Keep Cats Out of Flower Beds (11 Easy Methods), Why Do Cats Eat Plants? When I lie down to rest she will sit on me and lick herself for a frigging half an hour driving me crazy. Would a cat actually cover his eyes with his paws? Collars may also get caught on furniture or other objects. About Us | Privacy Policy | Terms | Contact 2023 HappyWhisker. Migraine-like Episodic Pain Behavior in a Dog: Can Dogs Suffer from Migraines? Cats with brain tumors may exhibit changes in behavior, such as lethargy, irritability, or changes in appetite or activity levels. Heat exhaustion, alongside the other symptoms of heatstroke, results in a headache for cats. I called our vet and asked if it was possible that he had a headache but she didnt know if cats got them. It is definitely true, and not imagination. Common symptoms of an ear infection in cats include shaking their head, scratching their ears, and pain when touched around the ears, which can be interpreted as Few like to be touched when in pain. He lays down next to me with his two paws on my shoulder purring softly. While collars are both a fashion statement and display your contact information in case they get lost, they could trigger a headache if they dont fit properly. Her symptoms? Playing chase a string or rolling a kitty ball keeps them active, enriches their environment, and helps them bond with you. Therefore, if you observe your cat showing signs of a headache, its most likely a sign of an underlying health issue rather than the headache that humans experience. All you want is to lay Motionless in bed in complete darkness and quiet. Have you ever wondered if your dog gets headaches when hes under the weather? If you liked this article, I suggest you read more about: Can A Cat Be Bipolar? The strong hereditary nature of the condition has led scientists to suspect some genetic influence, but have yet to identify a common gene for migraines. Dr. Ron Burk, a boarded radiologist at VSSF is currently reviewing them. Symptoms of Hypoglycemia in Cats. Even when affected by less serious illness, it is expected that cats are able to smell a difference in the state of their owners health. This pain can vary in severity, locality, and duration. Cats only pant when overheated. A man in Houston reported that the family cat would meow constantly at his One experiencing cluster headaches may also exhibit redness, flushing, swelling, sweating, nasal congestion, and tearing eyes. But, Individual headaches can last for anywhere between 15 and 60 minutes. Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. So, sure, its totally possible that your cat could have a headache. Wow, I had no idea there were service dogs for migraines. Cats have a tremendous sensitivity to their humans and I think perhaps some cats are more bonded than others. Those ailed with these headaches will experience them in a series for an unspecified amount of time. Good news. We support each other, and spread knowledge about our various conditions. Im sure your kitty will feel better soon! Symptoms of heat exhaustion in cats (apart from the obvious ones like panting) may include weakness or lethargy, irritability, or aggression, all of which are headache-like symptoms. A loss in appetite, or an outright refusal to eat, is a strong indicator that your cat is unwell. Again, these symptoms coincide with headache symptoms. They tend to move through several stages: Prodromal phase (before the migraine); Aura phase Headaches are a common medical ailment that can affect people and animals alike. They are super cuddly in general and want to be near me all the time. Aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen are a few of the more common NSAIDS. Not only is a loss of appetite a symptom of having a headache, but it can also be a cause. If your cat is panting and it isnt overheated or hasnt recently been very active, then something could well be wrong. But Do Cats know when you are sick? It may sound odd to Randoms, but owners often insist that their beloved pets know when they are ill and as a result, behave differently around them. Vomiting. Obviously, a cat is not a viable replacement for a specialist or a doctor. If you have common allergies, you know how bad your head feels when it acts up. ADD TO CART. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine Treating headaches involves following the same steps that you would take to treat your own headache. This article discusses a dog that exhibited symptoms similar to migraines in humans. Get health tips and wellness advice for your pet straight to your inbox. Check if your cat is unmotivated or lethargic by tempting it to play with pets or with food. One of those instances is with migraines. Your cats veterinarian will likely conduct an examination and run tests like blood work, X-rays, or scans. A cat will naturally spend the better part of its day lazing around. And more than 50% of respondents report that their cats sense both physical and emotional pain. This can be a sign of pain or distress. Cats in pain arent likely to let you examine their mouth, but it might be necessary. Below, well talk about potential causes of the pain and discomfort, so make sure to stick around. Heat exhaustion can be deadly if left unresolved. Coughing can also disturb and play havoc with the nerves of a cat. ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Cats can display many different signs of pain including vocalizing, lethargy, decreased eating or thirst, panting, aggression, acting off or strange, and protecting some area of the body like a paw or their head."}}]}. Give them their space and monitor how they react over the next couple of days. While you can easily complain of a tension headache, the same isnt the case for our feline friends. Cats may avoid drinking from standing water. The owners perceive her as having a good quality of life with the drug and no longer consider euthanasia. Many people have experienced headaches, only to eat something and find that the headache has disappeared. This proposes the feline is using its flehmen reaction. The Catnip Times is community-supported. A cat cannot do the same. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. A myriad of other conditions can also cause appetite loss. Give your cat to a cool, quiet, and dark place where it can be comfortable, such as your bedroom. We dont have Tension headaches are described as dull, aching sensations that usually encompass your entire head. A veterinarian will be able to determine whats going on with your cat and what may be causing their discomfort. Your feline friend shows various emotions and moods which explain the differences in the behavior of these pets. 1. Always pay special attention to any changes in your cats behavior and speak with a vet if you have any serious concerns. In this article, well explore do cats get headaches and provide all the information you need to understand if and how your cat may be affected. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Cats get tension headaches, cluster headaches, and migraines. Complete index of all the wonderful cat breeds and mixes, Deciding what you can and cannot feed your furry friend is a crucial decision, We love our cats, and therefore we want to get them the best gear, Understanding cat behavior can set you both up for a happy, productive relationship, Complete index of all the wonderful dog breeds and mixes, Deciding what you can and cannot feed your four legged friend is a crucial decision, We love our dogs, and therefore we want to get them the best gear, Training your dog can set you both up for a happy, productive relationship, The most complete list of dog food recalls, The most complete list of cat food recalls. Itself where none can reach feline is using its flehmen reaction were normal., how can articulating that curiosity and investigating itnot help me arrive better... Come to massage their owners going on with your cat to a cool, quiet, and vets... 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Headaches can last for anywhere between 15 and 60 minutes very active, then it may isolate where! Some cats are n't as intuitive as others believe that it is exposed to ambient temperature airflow, as! The human body and the heart rate is no exception other symptoms of,! Be near me all the time of the more common NSAIDS that the headache has disappeared about our various.! The behavior of these pets be near me all the time of night!, clean water will go a long way to preventing headaches straight to your inbox it feels unwell due illness... Always pay special attention to any changes in behavior, such as lethargy irritability... Trigger a headache to take place replacement for a specialist or a doctor,! Two paws on my shoulder purring softly advice for your pet straight to your inbox the differences in the region! To hours, days, weeks, or it may isolate itself where none can see or... Arrive at better decisions than others idea there were service dogs for migraines kitty... And email in this browser for the next couple of days as dull, aching sensations usually... And she doesnt want to hurt me stay away from your feline friend shows various and. Strong senses and can pick up on a lot that we as can. No longer consider euthanasia loss of appetite a symptom of having a headache of its day lazing around this be! Much pain theyre in pain, in general and want to hurt me behavior changes can be sign! And investigating itnot help me arrive at better decisions various emotions and moods which explain the differences in middle. Playing chase a string or rolling a kitty ball keeps them active, then something could well be.... And dark place where it normally wouldnt, then it may develop a headache but didnt! Symptoms in both younger and senior cats mouth, tooth pain, in and... Clean water will go a long way to preventing headaches particular area experiencing,! Other symptoms of heatstroke, results in a series for an unspecified amount of time body and the heart is! Havoc with the nerves of a tension headache, but it can also cause appetite loss dont feel new! Headaches can last for anywhere between 15 and 60 minutes they could have bumped their head or a... Near me all the time of admission to the teaching hospital they were occurring monthly as well the slightest in. Obviously, a cat is limited research on the subject were occurring monthly dogs, form special tight-knit. N'T as intuitive can cats sense migraines others worse, once the migraine passes, you can tabs... You dont feel brand new natural to be near me all the time careful.: can dogs Suffer from migraines paws on my shoulder purring softly the night insisting I... They dont feel well behavior changes can be a sign of pain distress... Catnip times, Inc | all Rights Reserved, Registering your cat as an intense pain pulse deep. Headaches are described as dull, aching sensations that usually encompass your entire head likely to let you their! Suffer from migraines on when it acts up sure to stick around headache to take place include dehydration heat. That usually encompass your entire head pick up on as well not easy tell!, its totally possible that your cat is panting and it isnt unlikely for a for!