The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. First, about 700 cat owners responded so the sampling of data is relatively large. When you click on our chosen products, we may receive a commission. And more than 50% of respondents report that their cats sense both physical and emotional pain. Animals are naturally more defensive when they are in pain. Various underlying medical conditions, such as infections, injuries, or nervous system disorders, can cause headache-like symptoms in cats. The owners became very astute at recognizing the onset of episodes and used the drug only as needed. But, its more likely that they could have head pain as a result of a health condition or illness. Unfortunately, I could not find any scientific research on headaches and migraines in felines. Remember, no sign is too small, so if you notice even the smallest thing off about your cats behavior, please let a vet know. Continue with Recommended Cookies. However, that doesnt mean our experiences dont hold. If they dont eat for more than a day or two, it is crucial to take them to the vet. So how do we know if pets suffer from migraines? If you liked this article, I suggest you read more about: Can A Cat Be Bipolar? 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. Its Wednesday at 1:15am and my cat Rocket is pawing at my face. Ive always wondered if she knows it hurts me to just blink at times and she doesnt want to hurt me. A 5-year-old female, neutered Cocker Spaniel was brought to the Royal Veterinary College teaching hospital for episodes of vocalizations and fear behavior lasting 2-4 hours and extending up to 3 days. To describe in simple terms what migraines are is basically a severe throbbing pain and/ or a pulsing sensation that usually is felt on one side of the head. Cats can sense your emotions through your voice, body language, and scent. He only comes over if Im crying because he likes to lick the salt of my tears and play with my tissues. Cats overheat easily and it isnt unlikely for a headache to take place. My cat absolutely cannot lul. Shes the proud mom of Baby, a Burmese, and works every day so he can relax in the sunshine or by the fire. As you can see, some symptoms of dental issues are similar to the symptoms humans experience with headaches. - Mystery Revealed - iKittyCat Keep a watchful eye on your kitty if they are secluding themselves more than usual. 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. Cats frequently experience migraines, which can be quite painful and uncomfortable. One thing I do know: When I told the oncologist (not the one I mentioned above) I suspected a headache, he kind of made a facethe kind of face that says, OK, now youre acting like a emotional pet owner and not like a scientist.. Trusted Source This implies that felines will perceive sadness. Make sure your cat stays hydrated Water is essential to cats, and dehydration can cause many health problems. Cats have allergies, too, and most vets believe that it could trigger a headache on occasion. Your feline friend shows various emotions and moods which explain the differences in the behavior of these pets. Cats are also very observant creatures. So perhaps your cat picks up on that. Typically, this pain is behind one eye or local to one side of the face. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. I've been to a doctor a few times about this but got fed up with all the silliness of what seemed like "shooting in the dark" with medications. Their unrivalled senses would not have it some other way. REGISTERING YOUR CAT AS AN EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMAL. When cats dont eat, their body burns through their protein reserves too quickly and leaves behind fats that are metabolized in the liver and trigger more severe conditions. More than 50% reported that their cats can sense both their physical and emotional pain. Go to source Research is limited but evolving. 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. Squinted eyes may also indicate pain in the head itself. It is making you remind that you need sustenance. Comfort them with a couple of treats and a small bowl of their regular food to see if they eat. While it was not definitively diagnosed with migraines, it would have met the criteria for a migraine diagnosis in humans. Provide them with plenty of fresh water out of a clean bowl to encourage them to drink more. Symptoms of Hypoglycemia in Cats. There are a variety of reasons why a cat may experience headache-like symptoms. Cats have allergies, too, and most vets believe that it could trigger a headache on occasion. If they have multiple symptoms and it lasts for more than 24 hours, take them to the vet to get examined. It is better to expect that felines have idea of the human existence cycle, however. All rights reserved. A cat cannot do the same. Nonprofit organization for small animal hospitals. A myriad of other conditions can also cause appetite loss. Cats in pain arent likely to let you examine their mouth, but it might be necessary. We will look at the causes, indications, and possible treatments for migraines in cats in this article. Im sure your kitty will feel better soon! The most common primary headaches include migraines, tension headaches, and cluster headaches (very severe headaches). When a cats body temperature rises too much from exposure to hot weather or from a lack of access to cool, shaded locations, it develops heat stroke. So, sure, its totally possible that your cat could have a headache. She re-presented to the college clinic with another episode characterized by vocalization and apparent pain as well as light and sound sensitivity. The same can be said for other people or animals in their family. Legends talk about pets tracking down a body part where a dangerous tumor is subsequently found. Asides from open-mouthed panting, cats may respond to pain with shallow, rapid breaths. I called our vet and asked if it was possible that he had a headache but she didnt know if cats got them. This is because that the cat would observe your every habit, mood, and action. 4. Your toddler will point to where it hurts. One of the true symptoms of high blood pressure is an elevated heart rate. I swear he was doing pretty much the same things I was. Often, a cat will seek out a place of seclusion and comfort. Other head injury symptoms in cats are vomiting, nausea, or changes in appetite or thirst. Migraines place incredible stress on the human body and the heart rate is no exception. Some might care for their humans from a distance. Let us know how you are responding to the headache events. If your cat is close to you, this would not be ignored. If you are paying little heed to your medical condition, your cat might seem not to observe. Headaches, especially more severe ones, can cause your cat to be lethargic until the pain passes. According to research, cats nasal cavity contains around 200 million scent receptors, which means their sense of smell at least matches that of some dogs. For animals we have to guess. Meh. Migraines impact people in different ways. Some cats will even seek to offer comfort. Betterpet - Advice from veterinarians and actual pet experts. She was started on acetaminophen and another anti-seizure drug. Not only do they pick up on cues they might seek to offer comfort or relief. 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. However, if your cat wont eat, the headache should be the least of your concern, and you need to see a local veterinarian right away. It will, at least for a day or two, relax and stay closer to you. Do cats know when you are sick? yes, they know. In fact, when she sees a hand move towards her head (as if to pet her)she flinches. They usually have a decreased appetite or are less active than usual. What can trigger a tension headache can also trigger a migraine. Many people have experienced headaches, only to eat something and find that the headache has disappeared. Cat parents, if your cat is showing any additional signs of illness that indicate a cat has suffered a head trauma, is battling with some infection, or has nervous system issues, a vet visit is necessary. The causes of headaches in cats include dehydration, heat exhaustion, trauma, and a loss of appetite. Some people say it depends on how you raise but there are vastly different personalities like in people. Even before you do, your cat would notice this. Make sure you replace your cats water daily. Featured Image Credit: StockSnap, Pixabay, Are Maine Coon Cats Hypoallergenic? Different types of pain need different types of treatment and medication. I guess they can sense the beginning of one so she can take her medication? Headaches have numerous causes, even if many remain elusive to researchers. It is not definitively known whether cats can experience headaches or migraines in the same way that humans do. Migraines are primary headaches characterized by severe, throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. All rights reserved. Pain puts a serious damper on anyones motivation to do anything. Still, several things can cause headaches in cats. Our feline friends do have a similar anatomical makeup when it comes to our heads. We make it happen through our educated and up-to-date information. Cats overheat easily and it isnt unlikely for a headache to take place. A change in facial expression may not seem like something to watch for in a cat. But if you are sniffling a lot, the noise may alarm your cat. Cats are notorious for being cold-hearted and aloof creatures, complete opposites of their canine counterparts. Your cat is not stressed over the infection. 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. Not every cat will react to pain by hiding. Not only is a loss of appetite a symptom of having a headache, but it can also be a cause. Your cat may rest with the top of its head on the floor to nurse the headache or lick its fur against the gain to ease joint aches.