What this means
The first thing to know: when a cat that used to be affectionate begins to hiss, pull away or nip as you stroke or pick it up, it is very often a sign of pain or illness, not a matter of character, mood or training. The cat is often simply telling you that the place you touch hurts.
There are many possible reasons. Joints, the back or the area near the base of the tail, where cats are commonly stroked, often hurt; pain can follow an injury, an abscess can sit under the skin, and pain can come from the skin, the organs inside, the mouth or the teeth. A cat may not limp at all but just change its habits: avoid being stroked near the tail, sleep longer, nuzzle less or jump differently.
Write down where the cat reacts, whether it began suddenly or gradually, and whether it also jumps less, eats less or uses the litter box differently. These observations are important information for a vet.
Possible causes
These are things that can cause this sign. It is not a diagnosis, and they are not equally likely for your cat.
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Joint inflammation or pain
Sore joints or a sore back make a cat avoid being touched in certain places. Often the cat also jumps less, moves stiffly and grooms less.
About the condition: Arthritis -
An injury or bruising
After a fall, a blow or a fight the painful spot may not be visible. The cat may hide, stop eating or breathe harder.
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An abscess or a bite wound
A small mark in the fur can hide a painful abscess under the skin. A tender lump appears that hurts when touched.
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Damaged or inflamed skin
Inflamed, itchy or injured skin hurts even when lightly touched. The cat may lick that spot.
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Pain in the belly or internal organs
A sore belly makes a cat pull away when you press its side. It can be a sign of illness inside the body.
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Pain in the mouth or teeth
A sore mouth can make a cat sensitive about its face and head. It may eat less or chew carefully.
What else to watch for
These observations help your vet build the picture faster. Note down what you saw and when.
- Where on the body the cat reacts crossly to touch
- Whether the change came on suddenly or gradually
- Whether it has stopped jumping up or moves stiffly
- Whether it eats, drinks and uses the litter box as usual
- Whether the fur is matted, especially on the back
- Whether it recently fell, fought or had another mishap
When to book a routine visit
Book a visit if your cat has started to react crossly to touch, avoids certain spots or jumps less. If it cries out, has been injured or also struggles to breathe, go straight away.
Related conditions
Conditions whose entries mention this sign. The list is somewhere to read on, not a way to reach a diagnosis.
Body systems: Bones and joints