Some behaviours have a medical cause and this must be treated otherwise the behaviour will not abate.
For instance:
- House-soiling in a cat could be caused by renal disease, diabetes, lower urinary tract disease or colitis.
- Nocturnal hyperactivity in an old cat could be caused by hyperthyroidism, arthritis or perhaps, vision or hearing impairments.
- House soiling in an old dog could be caused by arthritis, diabetes, renal disease, colitis or canine cognitive disease.
- Self mutilation of a front paw could be caused by a variety of dermatological diseases and by trauma.
- Aggression towards children in an old dog could be caused by arthritis or other pain-inducing diseases.
- ‘Out of Character Aggression’ in dogs and cats can be caused by disease of internal organs such as the thyroid gland, kidneys, pituitary gland and others.
However, all of the above could be a primary behavioural problem as well.
Treatment of the medical condition is essential if the behaviour is to be solved.
To properly assess you pet’s behaviour, complete an assessment form that you will find linked on the menu above.