Common behavior issues in animals and their solutions

Aggression

Animals can often exhibit aggressive behaviour towards other animals or humans, often as a result of fear, dominance displays, territorial disputes or resource guarding.
Solutions to this behaviour typically involve behavioural modification therapy. This might include training an animal to associate positive things with what they currently perceive as a threat.
It’s essential to remember that aggressive behaviour should be addressed under the supervision of a professional, as incorrect handling can escalate the situation.

Compulsive Behaviour

Compulsive behaviours are repeated, fixed patterns of behaviour that serve no apparent function such as over-grooming or incessant tail-chasing.
These behaviours often arise as an unhealthy response to stress, anxiety or confinement.
Solutions usually include providing a more enriched environment, allowing for more social interactions, and reducing stress factors. In serious cases, consulting a vet for potential medical treatment may be necessary.

Fear and Anxiety

Animals can exhibit a range of fear and anxiety-related behaviours, like hiding, whimpering, or aggressive responses.
These behaviours often stem from traumatic experiences, lack of socialisation or genetic predisposition.
Overcoming fear and anxiety in animals usually involves methods like desensitisation (gradual exposure to the fear-inducing stimulus) and counter-conditioning (associating the fear stimulus with positive things).

Lack of Training or Poor Socialisation

Lack of proper training or socialisation can lead to many behavioural issues in animals, such as excessive barking or biting in dogs, urine spraying in cats, dominance challenges, or fear of humans.
This is usually addressed by consistent behavioural training using positive reinforcement methods, like rewarding an animal for displaying desired behaviours.
Socialising an animal with others of its kind and with humans during their early growth stages can help to avoid many of these issues.

Physical Health Issues

Behavioural changes in animals can often be a sign of underlying health problems.
Medical conditions like arthritis, dental disease, or internal pain can lead to aggressiveness, withdrawal, and other behavioural changes.
Regular health check-ups by a vet can help detect any physiological issues leading to behavioural changes, which can then be treated appropriately. Physical exercise, balanced diet and proper care can help prevent many of these issues.