Hyperthyroidism (causing irritability and polyphagia) + degenerative joint disease (pain on touch).
Veterinary science plays a critical role in understanding animal behavior, as it provides the foundation for diagnosing and treating behavioral issues. For example:
On exam, the cat resents palpation over the caudal lumbar spine. Radiographs show moderate hip joint sclerosis. T4 is elevated (8.5 µg/dL; normal 1–4).