Related Experiment Videos
Behavioral problems of geriatric dogs and cats
The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Small Animal Practice
|November 1, 1981
Summary
Older pets may develop behavioral issues due to age-related conditions or environmental changes. Addressing these geriatric behavior problems requires considering the animal's physical limitations and minimizing life disruptions.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Behavior
Background:
- Many long-term pets develop behavioral problems in old age.
- These issues can be exacerbated by underlying geriatric conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline common behavioral problems in aging dogs and cats.
- To provide guidance on managing these behaviors in geriatric pets.
Main Methods:
- Review of common geriatric behavioral issues in dogs and cats.
- Consideration of age-related physical limitations and illnesses.
Main Results:
- Common canine issues include deafness, house-soiling (renal, cardiovascular, GI), and aggression (social changes, pain/arthritis).
- Feline problems often stem from environmental changes.
- Treatment parallels younger animals but must account for geriatric limitations.
Conclusions:
- Geriatric behavioral problems are often linked to degenerative diseases.
- Minimizing social and environmental changes is crucial for older pets.
- Veterinary practitioners should advise owners on managing age-related behavioral changes.