Impact of AH on Small Animal Clinical Work Flashcards
(14 cards)
What are the social behaviours of cats?
Territorial, solitary, hunting (through play), mark territory by scent (facial pheromones, urine spraying, scratching)
These behaviours are essential for a cat’s well-being and social interactions.
What are common forms of communication in cats?
Vocalisation; purr, meow, hiss, growl
These sounds convey different emotions and needs of the cat.
What happens when a cat cannot exhibit ‘normal’ behaviour?
- Increased aggression
- Anxiety (e.g., overgrooming)
- Compulsive behaviours
- Displacement activities
- Redirection activities
- Stereotypic behaviours (e.g., pacing)
- Vacuum activity (mindless activities)
These behavioural issues can indicate stress or discomfort in the cat.
What clinical conditions are related to the inability to exhibit ‘normal’ behaviour in cats?
- Obesity
- Baldness and hairballs due to overgrooming
- Wool sucking - nail infections
- Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC)
- Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)
These conditions often require lifestyle changes for management.
What is Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC)?
Not bacterial cause, stress induced so lifestyle changes appropriate
Obese male cats can develop calcifications blocking the urinary tract.
What questions should you ask a cat owner regarding urinary issues?
- Indoor or outdoor cat
- Behavioural changes?
- Food and drink intake
- Lifestyle changes (e.g., new animal/baby)
- Enrichment availability
These questions help assess the cat’s environment and potential stressors.
What are some recommendations for indoor cats to reduce stress?
- Advise more enrichment opportunities
- Separate areas for new cats
- Simulate exercise (e.g., hide treats)
- Ensure more litter trays than cats
These strategies aim to improve the cat’s quality of life.
What should be done if a cat is really stressed and unresponsive to treatment?
- Rehoming
- Euthanasia (prioritise welfare of the cat)
These are last-resort options when quality of life is severely compromised.
What is the social behaviour of dogs?
- Pack over territory
- Rely on dominance hierarchy depending on resource value
- Meal feeders not ad lib
Understanding these behaviours is crucial for effective training and management.
What is the socialisation period for dogs?
Critical learning period, learns behaviours, how to react, ‘shapes’ the dog/cat for life
Proper socialisation with humans and other animals is essential.
What happens when a dog doesn’t receive appropriate husbandry?
- Fear and phobias
- Aggression (fear-related, possessive, play, redirected)
- Separation anxiety/Anxiety
- Stereotypic behaviours
- Destructive behaviours
- Obesity
These issues can arise from lack of socialisation and proper care.
What clinical conditions are related to socialisation behaviour in dogs?
- Separation anxiety/destructive behaviour
- Aggression
These conditions often stem from inadequate socialisation.
What clinical conditions are related to husbandry issues in dogs?
- Obesity
- Osteoarthritis
These conditions may result from poor exercise and diet management.
What questions should you ask a dog owner regarding their pet’s care?
- Do you exercise the dog?
- How much are you feeding it? Are treats factored into the calories?
These inquiries help evaluate the dog’s overall health and lifestyle.
