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Abnormal Repetitive Behaviors and Self-Mutilations in Small Mammals
Claire Vergneau-Grosset1, Hélène Ruel2
1Service de Médecine Zoologique, Clinical Sciences Department, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, Saint-Hyacinthe, Montreal, Québec J2S 2M2, Canada.
The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Exotic Animal Practice
|November 15, 2020
Summary
Identifying the cause of self-mutilation in small mammals is key for effective treatment. Veterinary practitioners must thoroughly investigate medical origins and consider hospitalization with pain management and barriers to prevent further harm.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Behavior
- Exotic Mammal Care
Background:
- Self-mutilation and abnormal repetitive behaviors (ARBs) present significant challenges in small exotic mammals.
- Identifying the precise etiology of these behaviors is often difficult, complicating treatment strategies.
- Behavioral reinforcement can further complicate management, necessitating a thorough diagnostic approach.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges associated with self-mutilation and ARBs in small mammals.
- To emphasize the importance of identifying underlying medical causes, particularly painful conditions.
- To discuss appropriate management strategies, including hospitalization and pharmacological interventions.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive investigation of potential medical causes, focusing on painful conditions.
- Consideration of hospitalization for intensive management, including potent multimodal analgesia.
- Implementation of physical barriers to prevent self-inflicted injury.
- Evaluation of psychogenic drug therapy as an adjunct treatment.
Main Results:
- Thorough medical investigation is crucial for identifying treatable underlying causes of self-mutilation.
- Hospitalization with multimodal analgesia and physical barriers is often necessary for small mammals due to their delicate physiology.
- Psychogenic medications may offer benefits in specific cases, complementing other therapeutic approaches.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of self-mutilation and ARBs in small mammals requires a multi-faceted approach.
- Prioritizing the identification and treatment of underlying painful conditions is paramount.
- Supportive care, including pain management and physical containment, is vital during treatment.
