PetLifeRadio.com - Episode 38 The Use of Psychoactive Medication in Pets with Behavioral Problems

There are many contributing factors that cause behavioral problems
in pets. Some of these factors include poor training techniques,
lack of understanding on how pets communicate, environmental
factors, and medical issues. In addition an animal’s genetic
predisposition and underlying neurochemistry are also factors that
can lead to behavioral problems such as aggression, anxiety, panic,
house-soiling, feather picking etc…..If the behavioral problems
stems in part or solely due to underlying neurophysiological
reasons, medication may be a necessary and valuable part of an
overall treatment program. The assessment of whether the behavior
problem is based in underlying physiology should be seen by a
qualified individual such as a veterinary behaviorist
(www.dacvb.org) or a veterinarian with a special interest in
behavior (www.avsab.org).

The medications that can be used in pets with behavior problems are
similar to medications used in people with various behavioral
issues. The medications are similar as the underlying neuroanatomy
and neurochemistry in people and pets is similar. Medications are
not without risk and each patient needs to be evaluated on an
individual basis to identify which medication would be best for
that pet and realistic expectation of that medication.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - The Use of Psychoactive
Medication in Pets with Behavioral Problems - with Pia Silvani on
PetLifeRadio.com