Body Language
What does a “distance-increasing” canine signal, such as growling or a stiff posture, typically indicate?
The animal wants more space or feels threatened.
During what age range is a puppy’s critical socialization period?
3–14 weeks of age.
What does FAS stand for in veterinary behavior assessment?
Fear, Anxiety, and Stress.
What is the purpose of a grimace scale in veterinary practice?
To assess pain based on changes in facial expression
What are the two main types of conditioning described in learning theory?
Classical (Pavlovian) and Operant conditioning.
What are examples of canine calming signals used to diffuse tension?
Yawning, lip licking, head turning.
At what age range is a kitten’s critical socialization period?
2-7 weeks of age
What FAS score describes a relaxed patient with soft eyes who accepts food?
Score 0 – Relaxed.
Which facial features are commonly evaluated on feline grimace scales?
Ear position, orbital tightening, muzzle tension, and whisker orientation.
Define positive reinforcement in operant conditioning.
Adding something desirable to increase a behavior.
In cats, what does a “bottle-brush” tail represent?
High arousal or extreme fear/aggression.
What happens if an animal is not properly socialized during its critical period?
It may develop fear or anxiety toward new people, animals, or environments later in life.
What behavioral cues are seen at FAS level 3 (Moderate)?
Avoiding gaze, intermittent refusal of treats.
Why is behavior observation essential when scoring pain in animals?
Animals mask pain; subtle changes in posture or expression often indicate discomfort.
Define negative punishment in operant conditioning.
Removing a desired item to decrease a behavior.
What does a right-sided tail wag in dogs usually suggest about the animal’s emotional state?
Positive or friendly emotions.
What behavioral benefits come from juvenile play in puppies and kittens?
Teaches bite inhibition, social skills, and appropriate interactions.
At what FAS level does a patient begin to growl, lunge, or show red-zone behavior?
FAS 4 – High (Red 1).
How can an elevated FAS score influence the accuracy of pain scoring?
Stress or fear can mimic pain behaviors, leading to false readings.
What principle does LIMA stand for and promote?
Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive – using humane, evidence-based, and emotionally considerate training methods.
explain the purpose of affiliative behavior like rubbing and allogrooming
strengthens social bonds and communicates familiarity.
How can veterinary technicians support healthy behavior development during early life stages?
Encourage positive exposure, gentle handling, and client education through puppy/kitten classes and preventive behavior programs.
Why is early recognition of FAS important in veterinary settings?
It prevents injury, reduces patient stress, and avoids diagnostic artifacts caused by fear responses.
What’s the technician’s responsibility when interpreting grimace or pain scales?
Combine behavioral cues with medical assessment and report findings objectively for appropriate analgesia or handling changes.
What is learned helplessness, and how does it occur?
A state where an animal stops responding after repeated aversive experiences because it perceives no control over outcomes.