To make pain assessment as objective as possible, we use validated pain scoring systems for both acute and chronic pain. These allow us to measure your pet’s level of discomfort, track their response to treatment, and adjust their pain management plan as needed. Pain scoring helps ensure we are not only treating pain but also continually improving your pet’s comfort.
Understanding Pain in Pets
Recognising pain in animals is challenging, especially in species such as cats and rabbits who naturally hide signs of discomfort. Pain may not always be obvious – you might only notice subtle behavioural changes, such as:
- Hiding away or becoming withdrawn
- Reduced appetite or reluctance to move
- Changes in grooming habits (overgrooming or lack of grooming)
- Aggression or irritability
Sometimes we cannot be completely sure whether pain is present, but we use our knowledge of anatomy, disease processes, and experience to make an informed judgement. In many cases, we recommend a “pain relief trial” – giving analgesic medication to see if it produces a positive behavioural response. If your pet seems happier or more mobile after pain relief, this confirms that pain was a factor.
Quicklinks:
Pain Scoring Systems
Types of Pain We Treat
We manage a wide range of pain conditions, including:
- Acute pain – such as ear infections, dental pain, injuries, or post-surgical pain
- Chronic pain – including arthritis, cancer pain, and neuropathic pain
- Procedural pain – minimising discomfort during diagnostics or minor procedures
Pre-Emptive Pain Management
Planning ahead is a key part of our approach. For surgical patients, we administer pain relief before and after their procedure to prevent pain from becoming established. For pets with long-term conditions, we develop ongoing pain management plans and review them regularly to ensure they remain effective.
Comprehensive Pain Management Options
We have access to a wide range of pain management tools and techniques, including:
- Modern analgesic medications – anti-inflammatories, opioids, and neuropathic pain medications
- Local anaesthetic nerve blocks – for targeted pain relief during surgery
- Multimodal pain management – combining different drug types to maximise comfort with minimal side effects
- Adjunctive therapies – such as joint supplements, physiotherapy recommendations, and weight management advice
- Palliative care – for pets with terminal illness, focusing on dignity and comfort
Our Commitment - Whisker & Woof is a Zero Pain Accredited Practice!
At Whisker & Woof, we are proud to be London’s first accredited Zero Pain Philosophy Practice, reflecting our commitment to ensuring every pet receives proactive, compassionate, and scientifically-guided pain management. Pain in animals is often subtle, so our team uses structured assessment tools, gentle handling techniques, and multimodal pain relief to identify and treat discomfort early—before it affects wellbeing. Every patient benefits from an individualised pain plan, whether they’re visiting for routine care, surgery, or chronic condition support, and we provide continuous monitoring and clear at-home guidance to keep pets comfortable throughout recovery. Our accreditation represents our promise to deliver the highest standard of pain prevention and relief, helping your pet feel safe, calm, and cared for at every stage of their life.