| | Behavioral Sign | Possible Underlying Condition | |------------|--------------------|------------------------------------| | Pain | Lameness, guarding, decreased appetite, hiding, aggression when touched | Arthritis, dental disease, visceral pain | | Neurological | Circling, head pressing, seizures, disorientation | Brain tumor, encephalitis, vestibular disease | | Endocrine | Increased thirst/urination, lethargy, polyphagia | Diabetes, Cushing’s disease, hyperthyroidism | | Gastrointestinal | Pica (eating non-food items), excessive licking of surfaces | Nausea, acid reflux, pancreatitis |
Animal Behavior and Veterinary Science: Bridging the Gap Between Mind and Medicine Zoofilia-homem-comendo-bezerra-cachorra-13
When veterinary teams understand species-typical behavior—such as a dog’s warning signs (lip licking, whale eye) or a cat’s freeze response—they can modify their approach. This not only improves welfare but also yields more accurate diagnostic data. | | Behavioral Sign | Possible Underlying Condition