Introduction to Animal Behavior and Veterinary Science

Veterinary science and behavior meet most directly in Veterinary Behavior, a specialty where doctors treat behaviors that have medical or neurological roots.

Recent advances in animal behavior and veterinary science have been driven by a range of factors, including:

Here is how behavior informs veterinary practice today:

In veterinary science, behavior is often the first clinical sign of a physical ailment. A cat that stops grooming might be suffering from arthritis; a dog that becomes suddenly aggressive might be experiencing neurological pain. By integrating behavioral science, veterinarians can diagnose underlying medical issues much faster than through physical exams alone. Why Behavior Matters in the Clinic