Table 5

Cat and dog behaviors appearing during social maturity that should prompt veterinary assessment

Fear of/withdrawal from people or other dogs/cats
Aggression to people/other dogs or cats
Stereotypical/repetitive/ritualistic behaviors (e.g., circling, overgrooming, licking, sucking)
Elimination changes and elimination in inappropriate areas
Development of fears/phobias associated with environments/stimuli (e.g., storm phobias, fear of car rides, leash walks, new places/toys)
Distress when left alone
Increased reactivity in any situation
Profound changes in activity level (either less or more) and reactivity when resting or asleep