title: Behavioral dermatopathies in small mammals.
abstract: Several skin conditions seen in small mammals are thought to have a behavioral cause but their epidemiology and pathogenesis are poorly understood. A significant amount of research exists on barbering in mice that suggests it is an impulse control disorder and may represent a good animal model for trichotillomania in humans. Stress seems to play a complex role in the development and maintenance of some behavioral dermatopathies, but genetics and experiences, especially during development, also likely play a role. Pain or discomfort may underlie the development of many of these problems.
authors.affiliation: Premier Veterinary Behavior Consulting, PO Box 1413, Sweetwater, TX 79556, USA. Electronic address: pigvet@hughes.net.
authors.forename: Valarie V
authors.initials: VV
authors.lastname: Tynes
mesh_terms: D000820:Animal Diseases / Q000209:etiology*; D000818:Animals; D001522:Behavior, Animal; D008322:Mammals; D051379:Mice; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000662:veterinary*
keywords: Behavior; Dermatology; Impulse control disorders; Small mammals; Stereotypies; Stress