Glossary · 🐾 Anatomy & biology
Prey animal
Nearly all small pets are prey animals — hardwired to hide weakness — which is why they mask illness until it’s advanced and why building trust (and watching for subtle changes) matters so much.
Because a prey animal won’t “tell” you it’s unwell, a daily look at appetite, droppings, weight and behaviour is your best early-warning system. It also shapes handling: move slowly, offer hides, and let them come to you.