Summary Abnormalities of Behaviour in Animals

Animal Behaviour – Abnormal Behaviour
Abnormal behaviour is simply behaviour that is not classified as normal, not observed in wild animals
of the same species and any behaviour that is deemed unhealthy, physically, or mentally.
Stereotypical behaviours are repetitive behaviours that are not natural and that do not do not have
an end goal or aid survival. They are commonly seen in wild animals being kept in captivity and
therefore have not been observed at all in their natural environment. Stereotypy is simply a negative
response to being kept in an environment that does not meet your needs as a species and has
therefore resulted in self-destructive behaviour. Stereotypical behaviours are good examples of
abnormal behaviours and can include:

 Self-mutilation.
 Overgrooming.
 Pacing / weaving / stall walking.
 Head bobbing and head tossing.
 Rocking back and forth.
 Cribbing / windsucking / door licking.
 Loss of appetite.
 Limited activity.

Anything not classed as a normal behaviour would be an abnormal behaviour.

Any stereotypical behaviours are also abnormal behaviour.