For a comprehensive look at the intersection of animal behavior and veterinary science, a standout piece for 2026 is

Furthermore, stress impacts the validity of diagnostic tests. A terrified cat or dog in a clinic setting may exhibit elevated blood glucose (stress hyperglycemia), high blood pressure, or abnormal white blood cell counts. A veterinarian must be able to distinguish between a pathological disease marker and a temporary physiological response to fear. This distinction requires a deep understanding of stress behavior and low-stress handling techniques.

A thorough veterinary workup must precede behavioral diagnosis.

: Scientists use these catalogs of species-specific behaviors to distinguish between "normal" and "maladaptive" (atypical) actions. Categories of Behavior : These are broadly divided into (instinct, imprinting) and (conditioning, imitation). Hunter College 2. Clinical Veterinary Features Preventative Care