A fearful animal is unpredictable. It produces high levels of cortisol, which can suppress the immune system and skew blood glucose readings. A cat that is "frozen" in fear on the exam table may appear calm, but its heart rate is 240 beats per minute, and its blood pressure is dangerously high. If the veterinarian misreads that freeze response as compliance, they risk a sudden, explosive bite.
In response to this growing need, the field of has emerged as a formal specialty. Recognized by the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (ACVB) since 1993, board-certified veterinary behaviorists are veterinarians who complete additional residencies in psychiatry, psychopharmacology, and learning theory.
By studying subtle behavioral shifts, veterinary professionals can detect illnesses early.
A fearful animal is unpredictable. It produces high levels of cortisol, which can suppress the immune system and skew blood glucose readings. A cat that is "frozen" in fear on the exam table may appear calm, but its heart rate is 240 beats per minute, and its blood pressure is dangerously high. If the veterinarian misreads that freeze response as compliance, they risk a sudden, explosive bite.
In response to this growing need, the field of has emerged as a formal specialty. Recognized by the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (ACVB) since 1993, board-certified veterinary behaviorists are veterinarians who complete additional residencies in psychiatry, psychopharmacology, and learning theory.
By studying subtle behavioral shifts, veterinary professionals can detect illnesses early.
