Animal Behavior Advice

Flashcards on animal behavior issues, their causes, and management strategies.

What are some potential reasons an animal might show aggression?

Resource guarding, fear, acting as a guard dog, or being startled.

What are some signs of aggression in animals?

Growling, snarling, resource guarding, biting, scratching, raised hackles, and swishing tail.

What are some signs of anxiety in animals?

Fidgeting (lip licking, yawning), excessive vocalization, avoidance, escaping, and inappropriate urination/defecation.

What are some reasons an animal might be anxious?

Fear, past experiences, separation from owner, grief, or stress.

What does destructive behavior in animals often look like?

Chewing, digging, destroying objects, ingesting objects, and destruction to the environment.

Why might an animal exhibit destructive behavior?

Boredom, stress, anxiety, or lack of enrichment.

What are some common phobias in animals?

Storm phobias, noise phobias, socialization issues, and confinement issues.

What are some potential causes of phobias in animals?

Lack of socialization, owner's behavior, lack of stimulation, and past experiences.

During which periods are puppies and kittens most receptive to socialization?

Puppies: 4-16 weeks; Kittens: 2-8 weeks.

Why is providing behavioral advice to clients so important?

Behavioral problems are a major reason for euthanasia or rehoming. Early intervention improves animal welfare, supports the human-animal bond, and builds client trust and practice reputation.

What is some first-line advice you can provide to clients regarding animal behavior?

Be calm, consistent, and positive. Use open-ended questions. Show empathy and listen actively. Provide handouts or digital resources. Reinforce key points with examples.

What are some techniques that can be used to help with animal behavior issues?

Training, conditioning, socialization, medication (e.g., clopramide), and veterinary consultation.

What are some products/equipment that can be used to help with animal behavior issues?

Products such as Feliway/Adaptil, storm phobia jumpers, crates, muzzles, leads, collars, harnesses, and enrichment items.

When should you refer a client to a specialist regarding their animal's behavior?

Aggression that risks safety, severe anxiety or phobias, behavior unresponsive to basic strategies, complex multi-animal household issues, and legal or regulatory concerns (e.g., dangerous dogs).

What are some referral options for animal behavior issues?

Veterinarians, veterinary behaviorists, accredited trainers, and online support resources (only reputable sources).