Here's why:
* Behavioral changes can be symptoms of physical illness: Many medical issues can manifest as behavioral changes in animals. These can include:
* Pain
* Neurological problems
* Hormonal imbalances
* Infections
* Organ dysfunction
* Treating the medical condition is crucial: If a behavioral issue is caused by a medical condition, addressing that condition will often resolve the behavioral problem.
* Misdiagnosis can be harmful: Treating a behavioral problem without first considering medical causes can lead to incorrect diagnosis and ineffective or even harmful treatment.
Therefore, a thorough veterinary examination is essential. This includes:
* Physical exam: To check for any signs of illness or injury.
* Bloodwork: To assess organ function and rule out infections or hormonal imbalances.
* Urinalysis: To check for urinary tract infections or other problems.
* Other tests: Depending on the suspected condition, other tests may be recommended, such as X-rays, ultrasound, or neurological evaluations.
Once medical causes have been ruled out, a veterinarian can then focus on addressing the behavioral issue itself. This may involve behavioral modification techniques, medication, or a combination of both.
It is important to remember that treating animal behavioral problems requires patience and understanding. It is also crucial to work closely with a qualified veterinarian or certified animal behaviorist.