AUTHOR
Clinician's Brief
_title_
No results found.
Content continues after advertisement
This is a filled error message
Account sign in.
To access full articles on www.cliniciansbrief.com, please sign in below.
This quiz uses a case-based approach to review the management of anxiety disorders in dogs and cats. Separation anxiety, thunderstorm phobias, feline anxiety, pharmacologic treatments, complementary therapies, and behavioral modification techniques are covered.
Powder, a 3-year-old castrated greyhound, is presented for inappropriate elimination, destructive chewing of the owner’s shoes, and escaping through the screened door. Comprehensive history-taking reveals that when the female owner is home, the dog stays within 2 feet of her, although sometimes when the owner goes out for coffee in the morning, she finds the dog sleeping on the couch when she returns. The aberrant behaviors only seem to happen when the owner is not home.
The patient history is most consistent with which of the following diagnoses?
Frustration with barriers
Play behavior
Poor housetraining
Separation anxiety
Territorial behavior
Diagnosis of separation anxiety is based on a constellation of factors: The first involves having a strong attachment between the pet and owners. Second, the problem behaviors only occur in absence of the owner to whom the pet is most attached. Finally, the behaviors tend to occur shortly after the attached person leaves, but not [necessarily] after every departure.
Presenting complaints associated with separation anxiety frequently include destruction, vocalization, elimination, behavioral depression, self-trauma, GI signs, and unusual or excessive motor activity. Frustration with barriers may explain a dog’s escape behavior. Inappropriate elimination alone could be evidence of poor housetraining or territorial behavior. Similarly, chewing of shoes and escaping could be misdirected play behavior. Because the collection of behaviors must be interpreted as a unit, separation anxiety is the most likely diagnosis.
From: Separation Anxiety in Dogs by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
From: Diagnostic Tree: Separation Anxiety in Dogs by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
Diagnosis of separation anxiety is based on a constellation of factors: The first involves having a strong attachment between the pet and owners. Second, the problem behaviors only occur in absence of the owner to whom the pet is most attached. Finally, the behaviors tend to occur shortly after the attached person leaves, but not [necessarily] after every departure.
Presenting complaints associated with separation anxiety frequently include destruction, vocalization, elimination, behavioral depression, self-trauma, GI signs, and unusual or excessive motor activity. Frustration with barriers may explain a dog’s escape behavior. Inappropriate elimination alone could be evidence of poor housetraining or territorial behavior. Similarly, chewing of shoes and escaping could be misdirected play behavior. Because the collection of behaviors must be interpreted as a unit, separation anxiety is the most likely diagnosis.
From: Separation Anxiety in Dogs by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
From: Diagnostic Tree: Separation Anxiety in Dogs by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
Diagnosis of separation anxiety is based on a constellation of factors: The first involves having a strong attachment between the pet and owners. Second, the problem behaviors only occur in absence of the owner to whom the pet is most attached. Finally, the behaviors tend to occur shortly after the attached person leaves, but not [necessarily] after every departure.
Presenting complaints associated with separation anxiety frequently include destruction, vocalization, elimination, behavioral depression, self-trauma, GI signs, and unusual or excessive motor activity. Frustration with barriers may explain a dog’s escape behavior. Inappropriate elimination alone could be evidence of poor housetraining or territorial behavior. Similarly, chewing of shoes and escaping could be misdirected play behavior. Because the collection of behaviors must be interpreted as a unit, separation anxiety is the most likely diagnosis.
From: Separation Anxiety in Dogs by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
From: Diagnostic Tree: Separation Anxiety in Dogs by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
Diagnosis of separation anxiety is based on a constellation of factors: The first involves having a strong attachment between the pet and owners. Second, the problem behaviors only occur in absence of the owner to whom the pet is most attached. Finally, the behaviors tend to occur shortly after the attached person leaves, but not [necessarily] after every departure.
Presenting complaints associated with separation anxiety frequently include destruction, vocalization, elimination, behavioral depression, self-trauma, GI signs, and unusual or excessive motor activity. Frustration with barriers may explain a dog’s escape behavior. Inappropriate elimination alone could be evidence of poor housetraining or territorial behavior. Similarly, chewing of shoes and escaping could be misdirected play behavior. Because the collection of behaviors must be interpreted as a unit, separation anxiety is the most likely diagnosis.
From: Separation Anxiety in Dogs by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
From: Diagnostic Tree: Separation Anxiety in Dogs by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
Diagnosis of separation anxiety is based on a constellation of factors: The first involves having a strong attachment between the pet and owners. Second, the problem behaviors only occur in absence of the owner to whom the pet is most attached. Finally, the behaviors tend to occur shortly after the attached person leaves, but not [necessarily] after every departure.
Presenting complaints associated with separation anxiety frequently include destruction, vocalization, elimination, behavioral depression, self-trauma, GI signs, and unusual or excessive motor activity. Frustration with barriers may explain a dog’s escape behavior. Inappropriate elimination alone could be evidence of poor housetraining or territorial behavior. Similarly, chewing of shoes and escaping could be misdirected play behavior. Because the collection of behaviors must be interpreted as a unit, separation anxiety is the most likely diagnosis.
From: Separation Anxiety in Dogs by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
From: Diagnostic Tree: Separation Anxiety in Dogs by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
Gracie, a 1-year-old spayed mixed-breed dog, is presented after her owner noticed that she holds her ears back, whines, and paces every time a plane flies over the house. During comprehensive history-taking, the owner mentions living less than a mile from the airport. Thus, there is concern that the dog has developed a phobia to airplane noise. The owner is interesting in treating the dog in any way that may help her.
Which of the following would not be a recommended treatment?
Auditory distraction
Counterconditioning
Desensitization
Flooding
Response substitution
Flooding is the process of exposing an anxious dog to a frightening stimulus at maximum level until the dog stops reacting anxiously. The idea is to have the dog become accustomed to the stimulus, thereby lessening the anxiety. Instead, flooding can increase the anxiety, potentially causing the animal to harm itself, the handler, or the environment.
Auditory distraction can be helpful in lessening noise stimuli that are affecting anxious dogs. Background music or white noise could reduce audible intensity of airplane noise, thereby lessening the dog’s anxiety.
Counterconditioning pairs the unpleasant trigger with a stimulus that creates a positive experience for the pet. In this case, having the dog sit for a treat every time a plane flies over the house may condition her to accept airplane noise.
Desensitization is the act of minimizing the intensity of anxiety by introducing the stimulus at a level wherein the behavior is not elicited. Desensitization is often used in conjunction with counterconditioning.
Response substitution involves replacing an undesirable response with a favorable response to replace the anxiety behavior. In this case, instead of pacing when she hears a plane, the dog might instead expect a treat.
From: Canine Anxiety by Terry M. Curtis, DVM, MS, DACVB, University of Florida
Flooding is the process of exposing an anxious dog to a frightening stimulus at maximum level until the dog stops reacting anxiously. The idea is to have the dog become accustomed to the stimulus, thereby lessening the anxiety. Instead, flooding can increase the anxiety, potentially causing the animal to harm itself, the handler, or the environment.
Auditory distraction can be helpful in lessening noise stimuli that are affecting anxious dogs. Background music or white noise could reduce audible intensity of airplane noise, thereby lessening the dog’s anxiety.
Counterconditioning pairs the unpleasant trigger with a stimulus that creates a positive experience for the pet. In this case, having the dog sit for a treat every time a plane flies over the house may condition her to accept airplane noise.
Desensitization is the act of minimizing the intensity of anxiety by introducing the stimulus at a level wherein the behavior is not elicited. Desensitization is often used in conjunction with counterconditioning.
Response substitution involves replacing an undesirable response with a favorable response to replace the anxiety behavior. In this case, instead of pacing when she hears a plane, the dog might instead expect a treat.
From: Canine Anxiety by Terry M. Curtis, DVM, MS, DACVB, University of Florida
Flooding is the process of exposing an anxious dog to a frightening stimulus at maximum level until the dog stops reacting anxiously. The idea is to have the dog become accustomed to the stimulus, thereby lessening the anxiety. Instead, flooding can increase the anxiety, potentially causing the animal to harm itself, the handler, or the environment.
Auditory distraction can be helpful in lessening noise stimuli that are affecting anxious dogs. Background music or white noise could reduce audible intensity of airplane noise, thereby lessening the dog’s anxiety.
Counterconditioning pairs the unpleasant trigger with a stimulus that creates a positive experience for the pet. In this case, having the dog sit for a treat every time a plane flies over the house may condition her to accept airplane noise.
Desensitization is the act of minimizing the intensity of anxiety by introducing the stimulus at a level wherein the behavior is not elicited. Desensitization is often used in conjunction with counterconditioning.
Response substitution involves replacing an undesirable response with a favorable response to replace the anxiety behavior. In this case, instead of pacing when she hears a plane, the dog might instead expect a treat.
From: Canine Anxiety by Terry M. Curtis, DVM, MS, DACVB, University of Florida
Flooding is the process of exposing an anxious dog to a frightening stimulus at maximum level until the dog stops reacting anxiously. The idea is to have the dog become accustomed to the stimulus, thereby lessening the anxiety. Instead, flooding can increase the anxiety, potentially causing the animal to harm itself, the handler, or the environment.
Auditory distraction can be helpful in lessening noise stimuli that are affecting anxious dogs. Background music or white noise could reduce audible intensity of airplane noise, thereby lessening the dog’s anxiety.
Counterconditioning pairs the unpleasant trigger with a stimulus that creates a positive experience for the pet. In this case, having the dog sit for a treat every time a plane flies over the house may condition her to accept airplane noise.
Desensitization is the act of minimizing the intensity of anxiety by introducing the stimulus at a level wherein the behavior is not elicited. Desensitization is often used in conjunction with counterconditioning.
Response substitution involves replacing an undesirable response with a favorable response to replace the anxiety behavior. In this case, instead of pacing when she hears a plane, the dog might instead expect a treat.
From: Canine Anxiety by Terry M. Curtis, DVM, MS, DACVB, University of Florida
Flooding is the process of exposing an anxious dog to a frightening stimulus at maximum level until the dog stops reacting anxiously. The idea is to have the dog become accustomed to the stimulus, thereby lessening the anxiety. Instead, flooding can increase the anxiety, potentially causing the animal to harm itself, the handler, or the environment.
Auditory distraction can be helpful in lessening noise stimuli that are affecting anxious dogs. Background music or white noise could reduce audible intensity of airplane noise, thereby lessening the dog’s anxiety.
Counterconditioning pairs the unpleasant trigger with a stimulus that creates a positive experience for the pet. In this case, having the dog sit for a treat every time a plane flies over the house may condition her to accept airplane noise.
Desensitization is the act of minimizing the intensity of anxiety by introducing the stimulus at a level wherein the behavior is not elicited. Desensitization is often used in conjunction with counterconditioning.
Response substitution involves replacing an undesirable response with a favorable response to replace the anxiety behavior. In this case, instead of pacing when she hears a plane, the dog might instead expect a treat.
From: Canine Anxiety by Terry M. Curtis, DVM, MS, DACVB, University of Florida
Cheeto, a 4-year-old castrated domestic short-haired cat, is presented for a 3-week history of hiding under the sofa and yowling. Physical examination reveals a healthy, happy cat. However, the owners mention that they just welcomed a new baby to the family. It is suspected that anxiety may explain Cheeto’s recent vocalization.
Which of the following is not a sign of anxiety in cats?
Depression
Inappropriate elimination
Overeating
Trembling
Vocalization
The most common signs of anxiety in cats include excessive vocalization, anorexia, inappropriate elimination, hiding, depression, and trembling. Because anxious cats are likely to be anorectic, overeating is not typically associated with anxiety in this species. Rather, changes in schedule, social interactions, owner interactions, new pets, and moving can all trigger feline anxiety. In addition, the cat being overly attached to one individual (a person or another pet) can cause inappropriate vocalization. Identifying and removing, modifying, or desensitizing the anxiety-provoking stimulus can reduce feline anxiety.
From: The Yowling Cat by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
The most common signs of anxiety in cats include excessive vocalization, anorexia, inappropriate elimination, hiding, depression, and trembling. Because anxious cats are likely to be anorectic, overeating is not typically associated with anxiety in this species. Rather, changes in schedule, social interactions, owner interactions, new pets, and moving can all trigger feline anxiety. In addition, the cat being overly attached to one individual (a person or another pet) can cause inappropriate vocalization. Identifying and removing, modifying, or desensitizing the anxiety-provoking stimulus can reduce feline anxiety.
From: The Yowling Cat by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
The most common signs of anxiety in cats include excessive vocalization, anorexia, inappropriate elimination, hiding, depression, and trembling. Because anxious cats are likely to be anorectic, overeating is not typically associated with anxiety in this species. Rather, changes in schedule, social interactions, owner interactions, new pets, and moving can all trigger feline anxiety. In addition, the cat being overly attached to one individual (a person or another pet) can cause inappropriate vocalization. Identifying and removing, modifying, or desensitizing the anxiety-provoking stimulus can reduce feline anxiety.
From: The Yowling Cat by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
The most common signs of anxiety in cats include excessive vocalization, anorexia, inappropriate elimination, hiding, depression, and trembling. Because anxious cats are likely to be anorectic, overeating is not typically associated with anxiety in this species. Rather, changes in schedule, social interactions, owner interactions, new pets, and moving can all trigger feline anxiety. In addition, the cat being overly attached to one individual (a person or another pet) can cause inappropriate vocalization. Identifying and removing, modifying, or desensitizing the anxiety-provoking stimulus can reduce feline anxiety.
From: The Yowling Cat by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
The most common signs of anxiety in cats include excessive vocalization, anorexia, inappropriate elimination, hiding, depression, and trembling. Because anxious cats are likely to be anorectic, overeating is not typically associated with anxiety in this species. Rather, changes in schedule, social interactions, owner interactions, new pets, and moving can all trigger feline anxiety. In addition, the cat being overly attached to one individual (a person or another pet) can cause inappropriate vocalization. Identifying and removing, modifying, or desensitizing the anxiety-provoking stimulus can reduce feline anxiety.
From: The Yowling Cat by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
Sparky, a 5-year-old castrated Jack Russell terrier, is presented after the owners noticed the dog humping their child’s a stuffed animal. The dog’s physical examination and blood work are within normal limits.
Which of the following would not be a likely cause of the dog’s behavior?
Anxiety
Arousal
Dominance
Self-soothing behavior
Sexual behavior
The dog’s mounting behavior is not explained by dominance because the dog is mounting an inanimate object (stuffed animal). Dominance, by definition, involves a relationship between two individuals, not between an individual and an inanimate object.
Anxiety is the main reason that dogs exhibit mounting behaviors. Typically, mounting occurs as a displacement behavior. This dog’s mounting behavior may be a manifestation of anxiety related to the owner playing with the child instead of the dog.
Similarly, the dog could become excited or aroused while the owner is playing with the child. The mounting behavior could be the dog’s way of gaining owner attention.
Mounting also can be a self-soothing activity for dogs, similar to thumb-sucking in children. This explanation is more commonly recognized when the behavior occurs before sleep.
Although the dog is castrated, it is possible the mounting behavior is sexual in nature. Testosterone is not exclusively responsible for male sexual behaviors. Mounting behavior, while blunted, can occur in male dogs following castration.
From: Canine Mounting: An Overview by Laurie Bergman, VMD, DACVB, Keystone Veterinary Behavior Services, Villanova, Pennsylvania
The dog’s mounting behavior is not explained by dominance because the dog is mounting an inanimate object (stuffed animal). Dominance, by definition, involves a relationship between two individuals, not between an individual and an inanimate object.
Anxiety is the main reason that dogs exhibit mounting behaviors. Typically, mounting occurs as a displacement behavior. This dog’s mounting behavior may be a manifestation of anxiety related to the owner playing with the child instead of the dog.
Similarly, the dog could become excited or aroused while the owner is playing with the child. The mounting behavior could be the dog’s way of gaining owner attention.
Mounting also can be a self-soothing activity for dogs, similar to thumb-sucking in children. This explanation is more commonly recognized when the behavior occurs before sleep.
Although the dog is castrated, it is possible the mounting behavior is sexual in nature. Testosterone is not exclusively responsible for male sexual behaviors. Mounting behavior, while blunted, can occur in male dogs following castration.
From: Canine Mounting: An Overview by Laurie Bergman, VMD, DACVB, Keystone Veterinary Behavior Services, Villanova, Pennsylvania
The dog’s mounting behavior is not explained by dominance because the dog is mounting an inanimate object (stuffed animal). Dominance, by definition, involves a relationship between two individuals, not between an individual and an inanimate object.
Anxiety is the main reason that dogs exhibit mounting behaviors. Typically, mounting occurs as a displacement behavior. This dog’s mounting behavior may be a manifestation of anxiety related to the owner playing with the child instead of the dog.
Similarly, the dog could become excited or aroused while the owner is playing with the child. The mounting behavior could be the dog’s way of gaining owner attention.
Mounting also can be a self-soothing activity for dogs, similar to thumb-sucking in children. This explanation is more commonly recognized when the behavior occurs before sleep.
Although the dog is castrated, it is possible the mounting behavior is sexual in nature. Testosterone is not exclusively responsible for male sexual behaviors. Mounting behavior, while blunted, can occur in male dogs following castration.
From: Canine Mounting: An Overview by Laurie Bergman, VMD, DACVB, Keystone Veterinary Behavior Services, Villanova, Pennsylvania
The dog’s mounting behavior is not explained by dominance because the dog is mounting an inanimate object (stuffed animal). Dominance, by definition, involves a relationship between two individuals, not between an individual and an inanimate object.
Anxiety is the main reason that dogs exhibit mounting behaviors. Typically, mounting occurs as a displacement behavior. This dog’s mounting behavior may be a manifestation of anxiety related to the owner playing with the child instead of the dog.
Similarly, the dog could become excited or aroused while the owner is playing with the child. The mounting behavior could be the dog’s way of gaining owner attention.
Mounting also can be a self-soothing activity for dogs, similar to thumb-sucking in children. This explanation is more commonly recognized when the behavior occurs before sleep.
Although the dog is castrated, it is possible the mounting behavior is sexual in nature. Testosterone is not exclusively responsible for male sexual behaviors. Mounting behavior, while blunted, can occur in male dogs following castration.
From: Canine Mounting: An Overview by Laurie Bergman, VMD, DACVB, Keystone Veterinary Behavior Services, Villanova, Pennsylvania
The dog’s mounting behavior is not explained by dominance because the dog is mounting an inanimate object (stuffed animal). Dominance, by definition, involves a relationship between two individuals, not between an individual and an inanimate object.
Anxiety is the main reason that dogs exhibit mounting behaviors. Typically, mounting occurs as a displacement behavior. This dog’s mounting behavior may be a manifestation of anxiety related to the owner playing with the child instead of the dog.
Similarly, the dog could become excited or aroused while the owner is playing with the child. The mounting behavior could be the dog’s way of gaining owner attention.
Mounting also can be a self-soothing activity for dogs, similar to thumb-sucking in children. This explanation is more commonly recognized when the behavior occurs before sleep.
Although the dog is castrated, it is possible the mounting behavior is sexual in nature. Testosterone is not exclusively responsible for male sexual behaviors. Mounting behavior, while blunted, can occur in male dogs following castration.
From: Canine Mounting: An Overview by Laurie Bergman, VMD, DACVB, Keystone Veterinary Behavior Services, Villanova, Pennsylvania
Molly, a 2-year-old spayed golden retriever, is presented for ongoing anxiety associated with thunderstorms. Sound distraction and counterconditioning have not helped. The owner is now interested in pursuing pharmacologic options.
Which class of drugs would be the most appropriate first-step therapy?
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Benzodiazepines
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
Azapirones
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
The goal of most canine anxiety medications is to lower the overall anxiety level so the dog can learn new responses and change behaviors. Benzodiazepines are gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) agonists that produce anxiolytic effects and thus are ideal when rapid administration on an as-needed basis is desirable (eg, during storms, car rides, trips to the groomer).
SSRIs block the reuptake of serotonin, making it more available in the neural synapse. Serotonin modulates mood, anxiety, satiety, cognition, aggression, and sexual drive. Agents from this drug class are commonly used in patients with separation anxiety, compulsive disorders, aggression, and phobias and would be appropriate if benzodiazepines did not improve the pet’s thunderstorm anxiety.
TCAs have a similar, although less serotonin-selective, mechanism of action as that of the SSRIs. This drug class is similarly indicated if benzodiazapene administration was not adequate to improve the pet’s thunderstorm anxiety.
Buspirone, the most common azapirone, is a partial serotonin agonist, with effects similar to those of TCAs and SSRIs. Buspirone has fewer side effects than do TCAs and SSRIs and may, therefore, be a better choice in senior patients or those with a concurrent illness.
MAOIs inhibit the enzyme that catabolizes oxidative deamination of catecholamines in the CNS and are used more commonly in dogs with cognitive dysfunction syndrome.
From: Medical Management of Behavioral Problems by Terry M. Curtis, DVM, MS, DACVB, University of Florida
From: Storm Phobias in Dogs by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
The goal of most canine anxiety medications is to lower the overall anxiety level so the dog can learn new responses and change behaviors. Benzodiazepines are gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) agonists that produce anxiolytic effects and thus are ideal when rapid administration on an as-needed basis is desirable (eg, during storms, car rides, trips to the groomer).
SSRIs block the reuptake of serotonin, making it more available in the neural synapse. Serotonin modulates mood, anxiety, satiety, cognition, aggression, and sexual drive. Agents from this drug class are commonly used in patients with separation anxiety, compulsive disorders, aggression, and phobias and would be appropriate if benzodiazepines did not improve the pet’s thunderstorm anxiety.
TCAs have a similar, although less serotonin-selective, mechanism of action as that of the SSRIs. This drug class is similarly indicated if benzodiazapene administration was not adequate to improve the pet’s thunderstorm anxiety.
Buspirone, the most common azapirone, is a partial serotonin agonist, with effects similar to those of TCAs and SSRIs. Buspirone has fewer side effects than do TCAs and SSRIs and may, therefore, be a better choice in senior patients or those with a concurrent illness.
MAOIs inhibit the enzyme that catabolizes oxidative deamination of catecholamines in the CNS and are used more commonly in dogs with cognitive dysfunction syndrome.
From: Medical Management of Behavioral Problems by Terry M. Curtis, DVM, MS, DACVB, University of Florida
From: Storm Phobias in Dogs by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
The goal of most canine anxiety medications is to lower the overall anxiety level so the dog can learn new responses and change behaviors. Benzodiazepines are gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) agonists that produce anxiolytic effects and thus are ideal when rapid administration on an as-needed basis is desirable (eg, during storms, car rides, trips to the groomer).
SSRIs block the reuptake of serotonin, making it more available in the neural synapse. Serotonin modulates mood, anxiety, satiety, cognition, aggression, and sexual drive. Agents from this drug class are commonly used in patients with separation anxiety, compulsive disorders, aggression, and phobias and would be appropriate if benzodiazepines did not improve the pet’s thunderstorm anxiety.
TCAs have a similar, although less serotonin-selective, mechanism of action as that of the SSRIs. This drug class is similarly indicated if benzodiazapene administration was not adequate to improve the pet’s thunderstorm anxiety.
Buspirone, the most common azapirone, is a partial serotonin agonist, with effects similar to those of TCAs and SSRIs. Buspirone has fewer side effects than do TCAs and SSRIs and may, therefore, be a better choice in senior patients or those with a concurrent illness.
MAOIs inhibit the enzyme that catabolizes oxidative deamination of catecholamines in the CNS and are used more commonly in dogs with cognitive dysfunction syndrome.
From: Medical Management of Behavioral Problems by Terry M. Curtis, DVM, MS, DACVB, University of Florida
From: Storm Phobias in Dogs by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
The goal of most canine anxiety medications is to lower the overall anxiety level so the dog can learn new responses and change behaviors. Benzodiazepines are gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) agonists that produce anxiolytic effects and thus are ideal when rapid administration on an as-needed basis is desirable (eg, during storms, car rides, trips to the groomer).
SSRIs block the reuptake of serotonin, making it more available in the neural synapse. Serotonin modulates mood, anxiety, satiety, cognition, aggression, and sexual drive. Agents from this drug class are commonly used in patients with separation anxiety, compulsive disorders, aggression, and phobias and would be appropriate if benzodiazepines did not improve the pet’s thunderstorm anxiety.
TCAs have a similar, although less serotonin-selective, mechanism of action as that of the SSRIs. This drug class is similarly indicated if benzodiazapene administration was not adequate to improve the pet’s thunderstorm anxiety.
Buspirone, the most common azapirone, is a partial serotonin agonist, with effects similar to those of TCAs and SSRIs. Buspirone has fewer side effects than do TCAs and SSRIs and may, therefore, be a better choice in senior patients or those with a concurrent illness.
MAOIs inhibit the enzyme that catabolizes oxidative deamination of catecholamines in the CNS and are used more commonly in dogs with cognitive dysfunction syndrome.
From: Medical Management of Behavioral Problems by Terry M. Curtis, DVM, MS, DACVB, University of Florida
From: Storm Phobias in Dogs by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
The goal of most canine anxiety medications is to lower the overall anxiety level so the dog can learn new responses and change behaviors. Benzodiazepines are gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) agonists that produce anxiolytic effects and thus are ideal when rapid administration on an as-needed basis is desirable (eg, during storms, car rides, trips to the groomer).
SSRIs block the reuptake of serotonin, making it more available in the neural synapse. Serotonin modulates mood, anxiety, satiety, cognition, aggression, and sexual drive. Agents from this drug class are commonly used in patients with separation anxiety, compulsive disorders, aggression, and phobias and would be appropriate if benzodiazepines did not improve the pet’s thunderstorm anxiety.
TCAs have a similar, although less serotonin-selective, mechanism of action as that of the SSRIs. This drug class is similarly indicated if benzodiazapene administration was not adequate to improve the pet’s thunderstorm anxiety.
Buspirone, the most common azapirone, is a partial serotonin agonist, with effects similar to those of TCAs and SSRIs. Buspirone has fewer side effects than do TCAs and SSRIs and may, therefore, be a better choice in senior patients or those with a concurrent illness.
MAOIs inhibit the enzyme that catabolizes oxidative deamination of catecholamines in the CNS and are used more commonly in dogs with cognitive dysfunction syndrome.
From: Medical Management of Behavioral Problems by Terry M. Curtis, DVM, MS, DACVB, University of Florida
From: Storm Phobias in Dogs by Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri
Lulu, a 1-year-old spayed schnauzer, is presented for excessive panting, whining, and trembling during car rides. Because physical examination findings revealed a healthy dog, it is likely that the clinical signs are related to anxiety associated with car rides. A variety of treatment options are discussed with the owner, who expressed interest in holistic or alternative therapies.
Which of the following alternative treatments can be particularly useful in dogs with car ride–associated anxiety?
Dog-appeasing pheromone
Essential oil of lavender
Magnolia officinalis and Phellodendron amurense extracts
Wraps and coats
Essential oil of lavender can be especially useful in reducing canine anxiety associated with car rides and might be an ideal first choice in this case.
Dog-appeasing pheromone (eg, Adaptil) is available in a variety of formats (eg, collar, diffuser) that can be helpful in treating separation anxiety, firework fear, and car travel. Tablets of Magnolia officinalis and Phellodendron amurense can be helpful in treating dogs with thunderstorm phobias. Calming wraps and coats (eg, Thundershirt, similar products) may lessen storm phobia and separation anxiety.
From: Canine Anxiety by Terry M. Curtis, DVM, MS, DACVB, University of Florida
Essential oil of lavender can be especially useful in reducing canine anxiety associated with car rides and might be an ideal first choice in this case.
Dog-appeasing pheromone (eg, Adaptil) is available in a variety of formats (eg, collar, diffuser) that can be helpful in treating separation anxiety, firework fear, and car travel. Tablets of Magnolia officinalis and Phellodendron amurense can be helpful in treating dogs with thunderstorm phobias. Calming wraps and coats (eg, Thundershirt, similar products) may lessen storm phobia and separation anxiety.
From: Canine Anxiety by Terry M. Curtis, DVM, MS, DACVB, University of Florida
Essential oil of lavender can be especially useful in reducing canine anxiety associated with car rides and might be an ideal first choice in this case.
Dog-appeasing pheromone (eg, Adaptil) is available in a variety of formats (eg, collar, diffuser) that can be helpful in treating separation anxiety, firework fear, and car travel. Tablets of Magnolia officinalis and Phellodendron amurense can be helpful in treating dogs with thunderstorm phobias. Calming wraps and coats (eg, Thundershirt, similar products) may lessen storm phobia and separation anxiety.
From: Canine Anxiety by Terry M. Curtis, DVM, MS, DACVB, University of Florida
Essential oil of lavender can be especially useful in reducing canine anxiety associated with car rides and might be an ideal first choice in this case.
Dog-appeasing pheromone (eg, Adaptil) is available in a variety of formats (eg, collar, diffuser) that can be helpful in treating separation anxiety, firework fear, and car travel. Tablets of Magnolia officinalis and Phellodendron amurense can be helpful in treating dogs with thunderstorm phobias. Calming wraps and coats (eg, Thundershirt, similar products) may lessen storm phobia and separation anxiety.
From: Canine Anxiety by Terry M. Curtis, DVM, MS, DACVB, University of Florida
Sal, a 2-year-old castrated Persian cat, is presented for recent onset of alopecia. Physical examination reveals alopecia on the medial aspect of the forelimbs, caudal abdomen, and tail, but the skin in those areas appears healthy. The remainder of the physical examination is unremarkable and results of blood work and skin scrapings are within normal limits. However, while gathering the history, the owner mentions a recent move to a new apartment. Thus, psychogenic alopecia is suspected.
Which of the following treatments would be least likely to help this cat?
Acquiring a new kitten
Adding a multilevel cat tree to the apartment
Administering parasiticide treatment
Using food puzzles to feed the cat
Grooming the cat daily
A majority of feline cases presumptuously diagnosed with psychogenic alopecia have underlying medical causes for alopecia.1 Behavior was the sole reason for alopecia in 10% of cases reviewed in the study. Excessive grooming leading to alopecia is a displacement behavior in cats, used to calm the animal and reduce aggression from other animals. Stress and anxiety, such as can occur with a recent move, are typically the underlying causes of psychogenic alopecia.
Acquiring a new kitten would alter the environment and potentially add stress or territorial conflict to the situation. Thus, introducing a playmate would not be the recommended solution for psychogenic alopecia in this case.
Adding a cat tree for perching or climbing could help reduce stress. Administering a regionally appropriate, long-acting parasiticide would eliminate any parasite-related (eg, fleas, Cheyletiella spp, Notoedres spp) causes of the cat’s alopecia. Food puzzles stimulate normal hunting behaviors, and scheduled daily owner interactions (eg, grooming) help minimize stress and anxiety.
From: Psychogenic Alopecia in Cats by Kelly Moffat, DVM, DACVB, VCA Mesa Animal Hospital, Mesa, Arizona
A majority of feline cases presumptuously diagnosed with psychogenic alopecia have underlying medical causes for alopecia.1 Behavior was the sole reason for alopecia in 10% of cases reviewed in the study. Excessive grooming leading to alopecia is a displacement behavior in cats, used to calm the animal and reduce aggression from other animals. Stress and anxiety, such as can occur with a recent move, are typically the underlying causes of psychogenic alopecia.
Acquiring a new kitten would alter the environment and potentially add stress or territorial conflict to the situation. Thus, introducing a playmate would not be the recommended solution for psychogenic alopecia in this case.
Adding a cat tree for perching or climbing could help reduce stress. Administering a regionally appropriate, long-acting parasiticide would eliminate any parasite-related (eg, fleas, Cheyletiella spp, Notoedres spp) causes of the cat’s alopecia. Food puzzles stimulate normal hunting behaviors, and scheduled daily owner interactions (eg, grooming) help minimize stress and anxiety.
From: Psychogenic Alopecia in Cats by Kelly Moffat, DVM, DACVB, VCA Mesa Animal Hospital, Mesa, Arizona
A majority of feline cases presumptuously diagnosed with psychogenic alopecia have underlying medical causes for alopecia.1 Behavior was the sole reason for alopecia in 10% of cases reviewed in the study. Excessive grooming leading to alopecia is a displacement behavior in cats, used to calm the animal and reduce aggression from other animals. Stress and anxiety, such as can occur with a recent move, are typically the underlying causes of psychogenic alopecia.
Acquiring a new kitten would alter the environment and potentially add stress or territorial conflict to the situation. Thus, introducing a playmate would not be the recommended solution for psychogenic alopecia in this case.
Adding a cat tree for perching or climbing could help reduce stress. Administering a regionally appropriate, long-acting parasiticide would eliminate any parasite-related (eg, fleas, Cheyletiella spp, Notoedres spp) causes of the cat’s alopecia. Food puzzles stimulate normal hunting behaviors, and scheduled daily owner interactions (eg, grooming) help minimize stress and anxiety.
From: Psychogenic Alopecia in Cats by Kelly Moffat, DVM, DACVB, VCA Mesa Animal Hospital, Mesa, Arizona
A majority of feline cases presumptuously diagnosed with psychogenic alopecia have underlying medical causes for alopecia.1 Behavior was the sole reason for alopecia in 10% of cases reviewed in the study. Excessive grooming leading to alopecia is a displacement behavior in cats, used to calm the animal and reduce aggression from other animals. Stress and anxiety, such as can occur with a recent move, are typically the underlying causes of psychogenic alopecia.
Acquiring a new kitten would alter the environment and potentially add stress or territorial conflict to the situation. Thus, introducing a playmate would not be the recommended solution for psychogenic alopecia in this case.
Adding a cat tree for perching or climbing could help reduce stress. Administering a regionally appropriate, long-acting parasiticide would eliminate any parasite-related (eg, fleas, Cheyletiella spp, Notoedres spp) causes of the cat’s alopecia. Food puzzles stimulate normal hunting behaviors, and scheduled daily owner interactions (eg, grooming) help minimize stress and anxiety.
From: Psychogenic Alopecia in Cats by Kelly Moffat, DVM, DACVB, VCA Mesa Animal Hospital, Mesa, Arizona
A majority of feline cases presumptuously diagnosed with psychogenic alopecia have underlying medical causes for alopecia.1 Behavior was the sole reason for alopecia in 10% of cases reviewed in the study. Excessive grooming leading to alopecia is a displacement behavior in cats, used to calm the animal and reduce aggression from other animals. Stress and anxiety, such as can occur with a recent move, are typically the underlying causes of psychogenic alopecia.
Acquiring a new kitten would alter the environment and potentially add stress or territorial conflict to the situation. Thus, introducing a playmate would not be the recommended solution for psychogenic alopecia in this case.
Adding a cat tree for perching or climbing could help reduce stress. Administering a regionally appropriate, long-acting parasiticide would eliminate any parasite-related (eg, fleas, Cheyletiella spp, Notoedres spp) causes of the cat’s alopecia. Food puzzles stimulate normal hunting behaviors, and scheduled daily owner interactions (eg, grooming) help minimize stress and anxiety.
From: Psychogenic Alopecia in Cats by Kelly Moffat, DVM, DACVB, VCA Mesa Animal Hospital, Mesa, Arizona
Quiz: Anxiety Disorders in Dogs & Cats
Final scoreReferences and Author Information
Author Information
For global readers, a calculator to convert laboratory values, dosages, and other measurements to SI units can be found here.
All Clinician's Brief content is reviewed for accuracy at the time of publication. Previously published content may not reflect recent developments in research and practice.
Material from Clinician's Brief may not be reproduced, distributed, or used in whole or in part without prior permission of Educational Concepts, LLC. For questions or inquiries please contact us.
*2007-2017 PERQ and Essential Media Studies
© 2023 Educational Concepts, L.L.C. dba Brief Media ™ All Rights Reserved. Terms & Conditions | DMCA Copyright | Privacy Policy | Acceptable Use Policy
