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When assessing pain in animals, it is useful to assume that humans an animals are closely related in terms of pain perception and anticipation in order to provide the correct management. Subtle as well as obvious indicators of pain should also be considered, particularly in obtunded animals as invasive procedures, trauma and many medical illnesses may render the animal unable to demonstrate explicit pain behaviour. However, the best diagnostic indicator for pain is response to appropriate [[Analgesic Drugs|analgesia]].
When assessing pain in animals, it is useful to assume that humans an animals are closely related in terms of pain perception and anticipation in order to provide the correct management. Subtle as well as obvious indicators of pain should also be considered, particularly in obtunded animals as invasive procedures, trauma and many medical illnesses may render the animal unable to demonstrate explicit pain behaviour. However, the best diagnostic indicator for pain is response to appropriate [[Analgesic Drugs|analgesia]].
==Analgesics==
[[Systemic Analgesia|Systemic analgesia]] refers to the use of certain analgesic drugs that act at the appropriate receptor that can be found across the body. Classes of drugs includes opioids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS), as well as ketamine and gabapentin.