Page 270 - Cote clinical veterinary advisor dogs and cats 4th

116 Benzodiazepine Toxicosis

that lead the pet to engage in the behavior the pressurized air blasts triggered by motion- performing these miscellaneous behaviors
client finds objectionable. detector sensors. Note that some animals will lead to obsessive-compulsive disorders.
VetBooks.ir Acute General Treatment case, the devices should not be used. The complaints can be similar and clients should
It does mean that the nonspecific signs and
will be afraid of these stimuli. If this is the
not dismiss unusual behaviors out of hand
purpose of a disruptive stimulus is to stop
• Increase activity through exercise and interac-
tive play with humans or dogs/cats. Play
with compatible conspecifics (animals of the the behavior in a way that encourages the as just “bratty” behaviors without having
animal to seek information and engage in
them evaluated first. Referral to a veterinary
same species), particularly for dogs, usually an alternative behavior that can be rewarded. behaviorist may be very helpful in such
provides more effective exercise with greater If the animal is afraid, it cannot do this. situations.
aerobic and psychologic scope than does play • Relinquishment and euthanasia are frequent
with humans. Possible Complications sequelae to behaviors clients find undesirable,
• Environmental modification should be used Poor client compliance can lead conversely to whether or not the behaviors were the pet’s
for preventing access to or limiting the continued self-reinforcement, worsening of the fault. The effect of this pattern on veterinary
repetition of the undesirable behavior and problem, and deterioration of the pet-client economics and veterinary staff morale is huge
to foster alternative, acceptable behaviors. relationship. A cornerstone of treatment is and often preventable.
owner understanding of the basis for the • This is a quality-of-life issue for pets.
Chronic Treatment behavior and the intention of the proposed
• Behavior modification can provide outlets treatment. Prevention
or encourage substitute behaviors that allow Puppy and kitten classes, basic obedience and
acceptable expression of the individual’s Recommended Monitoring agility training, and understanding of basic
mental and social needs. Depending on • Frequent follow-up improves client compli- behavioral, physical, and social needs of dogs
the problem, this may consist of exercise, ance. and cats can help prevent behaviors from
goal-oriented activities (obedience, agility, • Demonstrations that show clients new ways becoming problems.
tracking, coursing training for dogs, treib- to interact with their pet are essential.
ball; interactive predatory play for cats). • Dedicate these tasks to one staff member to Technician Tips
Rewards—verbal, physical (e.g., petting or enhance continuity, consistency in advice Start a conversation by asking the owner if the
stroking), and food—should be given for and follow-up. Clients feel that their veteri- pet is making the “naughty or nice Santa’s list.”
all spontaneous and calm behaviors (e.g., narians care more about them under these If you don’t ask, they won’t tell.
chewing on chew-toys, clawing on provided conditions.
surfaces, digging in a sandbox provided for Client Education
this purpose, pouncing on cat toys). PROGNOSIS & OUTCOME Keep a loaning library of books, newsletters, and
• Attention-seeking behaviors such as jumping videos covering basic behaviors of dogs and cats
or playful whining or biting need to be • Excellent if the clients understand the pets’ and a list of trainers and facilities that hospital
ignored completely. Elimination of the needs and are willing and able to meet them staff members have verified to use humane train-
reward (i.e., attention) can extinguish the • Poor if clients have unrealistic expectations, ing techniques. This provides the atmosphere
behavior only if the client is consistent in consider pets recyclable, feel guilty about of caring that makes it easier for clients to get
not responding. discussing the issue with their veterinarian, the help they need. A useful source of video
• In mild cases, devices that interrupt the or are unwilling or unable to meet their pets’ and other training and behavioral material can
behavior with an aversive stimulus can be needs be found at https://drsophiayin.com/.
useful early in the course of the problem
only if the animal is not afraid of the stimulus PEARLS & CONSIDERATIONS SUGGESTED READING
and only if the behavior can be redirected
toward an appropriate outlet. Comments Yin S: How to behave so your dog behaves, Neptune,
• Examples of aversive but not harmful or • Annoyance behaviors that are extreme and NJ, 2010, TFH Publications.
fear-inducing disruptive stimuli include interfere with normal physical and social AUTHOR: Soraya V. Juarbe-Diaz, DVM, DACVB
inverted plastic carpet runners (spike side functioning are characteristic of obsessive- EDITOR: Karen L. Overall, VMD, MA, PhD, DACVB
up), static electricity mats for surfaces the compulsive disorder and other anxiety-related
client wants to be off-limits to the pet, and conditions. This does not mean that

Benzodiazepine Toxicosis Client Education
Sheet

BASIC INFORMATION frequently used or prescribed for humans Clinical Presentation
and animals and is commonly available in
Definition many homes. DISEASE FORMS/SUBTYPES
Iatrogenic overdose or accidental ingestion of • Repeated oral dosing of diazepam in cats Veterinary patients generally tolerate benzodi-
benzodiazepines such as diazepam (Valium), has been associated with hepatic necrosis. azepines better, on a mg/kg basis, than human
alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), or patients.
midazolam (Versed) RISK FACTORS
Cats with underlying liver disease may be at HISTORY, CHIEF COMPLAINT
Epidemiology higher risk for developing hepatic necrosis with Accidental overdose in a hospital setting or
SPECIES, AGE, SEX oral diazepam dosing. evidence of ingestion at home (e.g., scattered
• Any age, sex, or species is potentially sus- pills, chewed bottle, and/or symptomatic pet)
ceptible because this class of medication is

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