Understanding species-specific behaviors allows veterinarians to advise on proper environmental enrichment. For example, fulfilling a cat's predatory drive through puzzle feeders, vertical territory, and scratching posts prevents boredom-related behaviors like overgrooming or inter-cat aggression. For dogs, mental stimulation via sniffing walks, training, and foraging toys is just as exhausting and fulfilling as physical exercise. Conclusion

This affects many companion animals, leading to destructive behavior, vocalization, and self-injury when left alone. Treatment involves systematic desensitization to departure cues and sometimes daily anti-anxiety medication.

Administering mild, behavioral health medications (such as gabapentin or trazodone) at home before the animal ever steps foot in the clinic. The Role of Veterinary Behaviorists