20/01/2021
Destructive behavior simply means behavior that causes damage to an owner’s home or belongings.
Primary destructive behavior is a normal behavior that includes exploratory and play-based behavior and scratching of surfaces.
Secondary destructive behavior is a clinical sign reflecting any of several behavioral conditions and other disease states. Systems affected may include the gastrointestinal such as damage to teeth, vomiting and diarrhea, obstruction is target items are ingested, musculoskeletal such as traumatic damage caused by intense scratching or chewing. Ingestion of toxic material could affect any organ system. Primary destructive behavior initially occurs in the presence or absence of the owner, it is not preceded by a specific environmental trigger and the usual targets are small items, malleable items and edges of furniture. This behavior is seen mostly in dogs and cats < 1 year.
The secondary destructive behavior is more often seen in older dogs. It is an attention-seeking behavior because it is mostly done in the presence of the owner, also maybe an obsessive-compulsive behavior. It may also be separation-related anxiety, this is done when the owner is away.
Primary destructive behavior can be reduced/stopped by supervising or confining until appropriate patterns have been established. Assure access to acceptable chew toys, reward appropriate behavior, interrupt inappropriate behavior , apply non-toxic bitter-tasting product to deter chewing. Also provide adequate exercise for dogs and cats. In the case of attention-seeking behavior, review principles of learning and reinforcement. Compulsive disorder- identify and reduce sources of anxiety in the environment, prevent access to target items to assure safety of pet. Medication is usually not advisable especially for primary destructive behavior.