What behavior may be an indication of extreme anxiety in animals during veterinary care?

Defecation or urination can be a significant indication of extreme anxiety in animals during veterinary care. When animals experience high levels of stress, their bodies can react in various ways, and loss of bowel or bladder control is a common response. This behavior often occurs as a result of the "fight or flight" response, where the body undergoes physiological changes that can lead to involuntary urination or defecation as a way to lighten the body in case of rapid escape.

In the context of veterinary care, an animal that is extremely anxious might not be able to hold its bladder or bowels, leading to these incidents. Understanding this behavior helps veterinary technicians and professionals identify and manage stress in animals effectively, thereby ensuring a more comfortable experience for both the animal and the staff involved in their care.

Other behaviors, such as yawning, sitting still, or eating, may not be reliable indicators of extreme anxiety. Yawning can sometimes be a sign of stress, but it also has other meanings and is not exclusively linked to severe anxiety. Sitting still could suggest relaxation or compliance rather than fear, and eating in a veterinary setting may indicate comfort rather than anxiety. Thus, identifying defecation or urination as a sign of extreme anxiety is crucial