Behaviour Changes in Dogs and Cats: When Should Brighton Pet Owners See a Vet?

Behaviour changes are often the first sign something isn’t right.

If your dog or cat is acting differently - even subtly - it may indicate an underlying medical issue.

Many owners assume behaviour changes are “just ageing” or personality shifts. In reality - pain, illness, or discomfort is frequently the cause.

Subtle Behaviour Changes That Warrant a Vet Visit

In Dogs

• Increased anxiety or clinginess
• Irritability or snapping
• Hesitation to jump or climb stairs
• Slowing down on walks
• Restlessness at night
• Increased thirst or urination
• Changes in appetite
• Excessive licking or chewing

In Cats

• Hiding more than usual
• Avoiding jumping
• Urinating outside the litter tray
• Night-time vocalisation
• Reduced grooming
• Sudden aggression
• Weight loss or gain

If your pet is “just not themselves,” that’s reason enough to investigate.

Common Medical Causes of Behaviour Changes

At Middle Brighton Vet, we frequently diagnose:

• Dental Pain - Broken teeth, gum disease and oral infections can cause irritability or reluctance to eat.
• Arthritis - Extremely common in dogs over 5years and cats over 7 years. Often mistaken for “slowing down.”
• Thyroid Disease - Hyperthyroidism in cats can cause vocalisation, weight loss and agitation.
• Kidney Disease - Often silent early on, but may present as increased thirst or litter tray changes.
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•  Cognitive Dysfunction - Senior dogs may develop dementia-like symptoms including confusion or sleep disruption.
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• Urinary Tract Disease - Especially common in cats - behaviour changes may be the only early sign.

Why Early Vet Assessment Matters

The sooner we investigate behaviour changes, the better the outcome.

Early diagnosis can:

• Reduce pain
• Prevent disease progression
• Improve quality of life
• Avoid emergency situations

We always rule out medical causes before recommending behavioural interventions.

When Should You Book an Appointment?

Book a check-up if:

• The behaviour change lasts more than a few days
• You notice multiple subtle changes
• Your pet is over 5–6 years old
• Your instincts tell you something isn’t right