Hurting a Cow/Pig/Chicken and similar mobs in creative mode will make them panic

there is no need to comment when you can update the affected versions yourself

This is surly not a bug, it doesn't matter how the mob gets damaged, it can be a player, another mob, status effect, fire, fall damage, anvil, etc'.

Actually, only other players, other mobs and fire damage have an effect. I just tested it now.
Fire and sorta arrows are the only thing non-attack that will cause mobs to panic when hit.

Is this still an issue in the latest snapshot 16w44a? If so please update the affected versions.

This is an automated comment on any open or reopened issue with out-of-date affected versions.

Confirmed. But this behavior is most likely intended.

Can confirm for MC 1.12.1.

Confirmed for 1.13.1. 

But gotta agree with @unknown, this is most likely intended.