What's the Link Between Chronic Pain and Changes in Behavior? - ON DEMAND

Course overview

Chronic pain adversely impacts the wellbeing of dogs and cats and has a far-reaching impact on their quality of life. Chronic pain (e.g., osteoarthritis) presents in multiple ways including changes in behavior such as increased fearfulness, noise sensitivity, disrupted sleep patterns, house soiling and aggression. In many cases the presenting behavioral complaint is a direct manifestation of underlying pain. Behavioral changes can precede the more obvious signs we associate with musculoskeletal pian including stiffness, lameness, and changes in gait. Pain assessment should be integral to any behavioral consultation. Validated questionnaires and equipment such as activity monitors can track the success of interventions.