What is a common sign of pain in non-verbal animals?

Excessive grooming is a notable behavior that often signals pain or discomfort in non-verbal animals. When an animal is experiencing pain, it may engage in grooming behaviors as a self-soothing mechanism or to focus attention away from the source of discomfort. This behavior can manifest as over-grooming specific areas, potentially leading to hair loss or skin irritation.

In contrast, sneezing typically indicates respiratory issues rather than pain. Increased appetite generally suggests that an animal is healthy or content, as pain typically leads to a decrease in appetite. Vocalization can vary; while some animals may vocalize due to discomfort, it is not universal and is therefore not a reliable indicator of pain for all non-verbal species. Thus, excessive grooming stands out as a more consistent sign of pain in non-verbal animals.