A therapeutic trial of pain medication (e.g., NSAIDs or gabapentin) for 2–4 weeks. If the behavior resolves, the cause was pain.
. While veterinary science traditionally focuses on anatomy, disease, and clinical treatment, the integration of behavioral science allows for a more holistic approach to animal welfare, conservation, and the human-animal bond. Key Components of the Field
For a long time, vet visits were strictly about physical exams. If a dog growled or a cat hissed, it was often labeled "aggressive." Today, we know better. Behavioral cues are often the first signs of physical pain or underlying illness. 1. Behavior as a Vital Sign
