Library
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There are many non-pharmaceutical products designed to improve a pet's behavior. There is little oversight for many of these products, and the label “natural” does not guarantee a product is safe to use in dogs and cats. Ask your veterinarian before using any over-the-counter product for your pet.
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Dogs and cats that experience frustration may exhibit displacement behaviors or may redirect aggression toward another target. Conflict can also trigger repetitive behaviors that appear to have no function, known as stereotypic behaviors. A compulsive disorder is diagnosed when a repetitive behavior occurs frequently enough to interfere with a pet's quality of life.
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Many behaviors are normal but problematic for a particular person or household. Some behaviors are not normal and may be unsafe for the pet or for others. The first step is to ask your veterinarian to examine your pet for signs of physical illness. Then, a behavior consultation can be scheduled to assess the behavior and design a treatment strategy.
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Several drugs are now used to help treat pet behavior problems. To determine whether drug therapy should be considered, it is essential to determine the cause of the behavior. Many dogs and cats can also benefit from medication that helps them learn more efficiently. It is important to have a behavioral and physical health assessment before giving medication.
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It is not unusual for behavioral problems to develop in older pets. Physical changes can exacerbate prior low-level behavioral conditions and illnesses. Age-related cognitive decline can directly contribute to new behavioral concerns. This handout discusses what to look for and what to discuss with your veterinarian.
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As pets age, they may lose some of their cognitive abilities. Age-related brain changes are not reversible, but there are medications, supplements, and environmental enrichment opportunities that may slow the decline. Underlying medical conditions should be treated to keep senior pets comfortable.
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Several products are available to help with behavior management in cats. Various products promote play and exercise, provide cognitive stimulation, allow safe outdoor exploration, and assist with anxiety or undesirable behavior (as part of your veterinarian's treatment program for these problems).
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There are many products available to assist with managing your pet’s behavior. This handout outlines some key products. Leashes, harnesses, and head halters are always needed to keep pets under control, especially when outdoors.
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Foraging toys are designed to provide mental and physical exercise and enjoyment by simulating hunting and seeking for food. Both dogs and cats are natural hunters and scavengers. They benefit from exercising this part of their brain on a regular basis. Providing enrichment in the form of foraging toys can decrease boredom, improve enjoyment, and encourage dogs and cats to engage in species-specific behaviors in a desirable way.
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Foraging toys are great for dogs and cats. They can be filled with treats or with the pet's regular food as an alternative to feeding from a dish. They offer mental and physical exercise while also providing benefits from sensory stimulation as they search for their meals. Dogs in particular benefit from the opportunity to solve puzzles in order to access food.