How do I know if my cat is in pain?

Cats hide pain well, so look for changes rather than crying.

Common signs: hiding, less grooming or an unkempt coat, not jumping up, sitting hunched, squinting eyes, eating less, peeing outside the box, and being grumpy when touched.

See a vet if you notice any of these for more than a day. A male cat straining in the litter box with little or no urine needs an emergency vet right away — it can be a blocked bladder.