The science of behavior has transformed handling techniques. Scruffing (grabbing an animal by the back of the neck) is increasingly viewed as outdated and counterproductive, often escalating aggression. Modern protocols favor:

: Unlike basic obedience training, VBM addresses the "idiographic" level—the specific factors affecting an individual animal's mental health—often using a combination of behavior modification and pharmacological intervention. 3. Technological Frontiers (2025 and Beyond) Veterinary Behavior - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics

: Modern veterinary curricula often integrate behavioral biology to help clinicians identify stress indicators, improve handling, and manage behavioral disorders as part of holistic health. Key Educational Resources

publishes critical reviews and primary research in the field. ScienceDirect.com specific degree programs in a certain region, or are you interested in clinical behavior resources for a specific species? Animal Behaviour | Journal | ScienceDirect.com by Elsevier

In cats, this is a primary indicator of systemic illness or fever.