When a veterinarian looks at a behavioral issue, they first rule out "medical mimics." For instance, a cat that stops using its litter box may not be "spiteful"; it may have feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD). A senior dog showing sudden aggression may be suffering from chronic arthritis pain or cognitive dysfunction syndrome (animal dementia). By treating the body, veterinary science often "cures" the behavior. The Role of Psychopharmacology
One of the most critical contributions of behavioral science to veterinary medicine is the refinement of pain assessment. Animals cannot tell us where it hurts. However, ethology (the science of animal behavior) provides a roadmap. When a veterinarian looks at a behavioral issue,