MERCK MANUAL

Veterinary Manual
Veterinary / Behavior / Behavioral Medicine Introduction

Overview of Behavioral
Medicine
By Gary M. Landsberg, BSc, DVM, MRCVS, DACVB, DECAWBM, Director,
Veterinary Affairs and Product Development, CanCog Technologies, and
Veterinary Behaviourist, North Toronto Veterinary Behaviour Specialty Clinic

An animal’s “behavior” is the product of its genetic composition, the environment in which
the animal functions, and the animal’s experience (particularly in the pre- and postnatal
environment through the primary socialization period). This section focuses primarily on the
diagnosis and treatment of abnormal behavior of domestic animals. For each species, normal
social behavior is outlined, followed by a description of common behavioral disorders.

The minimum behavioral welfare requirements for the housing and enrichment of farm, zoo,
and laboratory animals, known as the five freedoms, are equally important for family pets.
These include freedom from hunger and thirst; discomfort; pain, injury, or disease; fear and
distress; and freedom to express normal species behaviors. When these needs are not fully
addressed, welfare is compromised and both health and behavior problems arise.

In companion animals, behavior problems weaken the pet–owner bond, resulting in a

decreased owner commitment to pet care. They are a primary reason for pet relinquishment
and euthanasia. Yet studies show that many owners do not report behavior changes to their
veterinarian, and most veterinarians neglect to inquire about them. Thus, screening for any
behavioral changes or emerging behavior problems should be done at each veterinary visit to
ensure that the behavioral health, physical health, and welfare of the pet are being effectively
and humanely managed.

© 2018 Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA