Full Description
Richly illustrated, this textbook lays the foundation for a dedicated discipline of feline veterinary psychiatry. Drawing on recent advances in neuroscience, ethology, psychology, and psychiatry, it also integrates the clinical expertise of its contributors. Building on the groundwork established in the authors' first volume on canine veterinary psychiatry, this book expands the scope to address the unique behavioral complexities of cats.
Today, cats are the most common companion animals in households, outnumbering dogs. This rise has been accompanied by significant growth in feline medicine, including the emergence of research groups focused exclusively on feline health and veterinary clinics specializing in cat care.
As animals with a dual status - both prey and predator - and a naturally solitary disposition, cats often exhibit behaviors that may appear puzzling or inappropriate. Behavioral disorders have become a major concern in veterinary medicine, representing a source of animal distress and a critical threat to the human-animal bond.
Adopting a distinct medical perspective, this work offers a functional interpretation of feline behavior and presents concrete, practical solutions for everyday clinical practice. It consistently prioritizes the well-being of both the animal and its human companions. Comprehensive yet accessible, this reference opens a previously underexplored field to a wide audience. It is an essential resource for veterinary students delving into the discipline, practicing veterinarians seeking a reliable guide, future specialists aiming to deepen their expertise, as well as all cat owners and feline behaviorists looking for practical and insightful information.
Contents
Part I: Psychophysiology.- Chapter 1. Foundations of Veterinary Psychiatry.- Chapter 2. Neuroanatomy and Neurophysiology of the Cat.- Chapter 3. Major Biological Functions and Endocrinological Mechanisms of Behavior.- Chapter 4. Brain Development and Behavioral Ontogenesis.- Chapter 5. Concepts of Welfare and Quality of Life.- Part II: Part II - Psychopathology.- Chapter 6. The Architecture of the Veterinary Psychiatry Model.- Chapter 7. Psychological States.- Chapter 8. Disorders Related to Dysregulation of the Fear Axis.- Chapter 9. Disorders Related to Dysregulation of the Self-Control Axis.- Chapter 10. Disorders Related to Dysregulation of the Territoriality Axis.- Chapter 11. Disorders Related to Dysregulation of the Relationship Axis.- Chapter 12. Essential Psychiatric Disorders.- Chapter 13. Aging Disorders.- Chapter 14. The Link Between Psychiatric Disorders and Somatic Disorders.- Chapter 15. Semiology in Feline Psychiatry.- Part III: Part III - Psychopharmacology.- Chapter 16. Introduction to Psychopharmacology.- Chapter 17. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs).- Chapter 18. Tricyclic Antidepressants.- Chapter 19. Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs).- chapter 20. Benzodiazepines.- Chapter 21. Sympatholytics.- Chapter 22. Antiepileptic Drugs.- Chapter 23. Tetracyclic Antidepressants or NaSSAs.- Chapter 24. Neuroleptics or Antipsychotics.- Chapter 25. Other Psychotropic Drugs.- Chapter 26. Hormonal Therapies.- Chpater 27. Over-the-Counter Treatments.- Part IV. Part IV - Psychotherapy.- Chpater 28. Introduction to Veterinary Psychotherapies. Chpater 29. Practical Application of Veterinary Psychotherapies.- Chpater 30. The Causes and Consequences of Veterinary Care.- Chapter 31. Veterinary Psychiatry in the Daily Life of the General Practitioner.
