Proceedings of the Southern European Veterinary Conference - SEVC -
|
|
- Alberta Agatha Barton
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 Close this window to return to IVIS Proceedings of the Southern European Veterinary Conference - SEVC - Sep. 30-Oct. 3, 2010, Barcelona, Spain Next SEVC Conference: Sep. 30-Oct. 2, Barcelona, Spain Reprinted in the IVIS website with the permission of the SEVC - AVEPA
2 Feline ethology; Understanding the cat Julie Cory PG Dip(ABW) DipAVN (Med) RVN Cats present a unique challenge when presented to a hospital environment. They are much more of a prey species than dogs, leading to increased stress levels just by being in a strange environment. They feel more vulnerable, and this can be seen by the number of cats that hide in their litter trays or under their bedding. Cats are also more subtle with their body language than dogs prey animals are less likely to advertise the fact that they are ill or injured. Social Structure A basic understanding of the cat s social structure is important when handling or owning a cat. It enables an appreciation of what issues are relevant to a cat, and how the environment can be used to modify the animal s behaviour. Society rules are very different for this species than for other domestic animals in that dogs, sheep, cattle and so on live in large groups and have a hierarchical system in place to determine who makes the decisions. The domestication process in cats has evolved more gradually, with more of an association between people and cats than a domination. From a management point of view, this means that cats are more independent and self-sufficient than other domestic animals. Cats are commonly believed to be a solitary species, distaining company. This is a bit of a generalisation, and while some cats will spend large amounts of time on top of cupboards, others can be very affectionate to their owners and other cats in the household. Feral cats can live in large communities, often sharing duties such as raising the kittens or mutually grooming each other (allogrooming). Cooperation between cats requires certain factors to be in place, and these may be lacking in a home environment that is closely human controlled. Cats are often acquired as strays that stayed, or because they looked cute in the rescue home, rather than because of their personalities and whether the cat at home will like them. The fact that cats are solitary hunters of small prey dictate that they do not require the help of others and do not need to remain in groups for survival hence no dominance hierarchy and no underlying motivation to stay in a particular area or with particular individuals. Again, stories are common of cats moving next door if the conditions at home are not favourable. Cats work on a system of mutual acceptance and respect. While some cats like company and attention, many will often accept it but without actively seeking it. Resources such as space and food are the main criteria for maintaining harmony in large numbers, and is vitally important in the home environment were multiple cats are housed. Feral groups of cats occur in areas where food is plentiful, often supplemented by humans. Food is acquired on a first come, first served basis and not determined by rank, so there must be adequate supplies if everyone in the community is to eat. Cats also eat little and often, so gorging on food as it is presented is not an option well suited to the cat s digestive system. There is no sharing of resources that can be seen in domestic animals such as the dog, but there is little fighting over the resources either. Space and shelter work along the same principles with favourite areas being occupied rather than defended. If the cat is not in the resting area, another cat can sleep there without causing offence providing other areas of seclusion and safety are available.
3 The dynamics of feral cats are also interesting when compared to the home environment that cats are expected to live in. Most feral communities comprise of related female cats, with a resident tom or two depending on the number of females present. From a management point of view, groups of female cats within the household may be more preferable than groups of males. Similarly, cats raised together from a young age may be more tolerant of each other than when introducing older cats. Although dogs are known for being territorial, often they are more attached to their owners or other dogs than the physical place that they live in. Cats, in contrast, are often more attached to their area than their owners. Owned female cat home ranges generally cover their house and garden. This may be extended to neighbouring gardens if there is no resident female. This area will then be claimed with scent marking through resting areas, scratching and faecal deposits. The male home ranges can be three times the size of a female territory, overlapping several female home ranges, however this will depend on the number of females, whether it is during the breeding season and whether the male is neutered or not. With the increasing incidence of neutering, the home range of entire toms can be considerable in order to find an un-neutered female. Interestingly, there is a current interest in looking at the inheritability of personality characteristics from the father. It appears that confident, bold fathers produce confident, bold kittens regardless of their mother s personality. The majority of friendly, affectionate males are homed and neutered, whereas the unneutered males tend to be the more aggressive feral cats (McCune 1995). The socialisation period in kittens starts a little earlier than in dogs at around 2 weeks, but is equally important in establishing normal parameters for those things that the animal shares its life with. This sensitive period prepares the cat for social encounters with other cats and maintaining social bonds with its own species, but also for social attachment to non-feline species such as humans and dogs. In an essentially mutual-tolerance species, this socialisation to humans may be an important factor in the acceptance of human affection and our primate displays of social attachment hugging, stroking and so on. As with dogs, this is a period where developing a concept of what is normal in the environment and what is potentially dangerous helps to orientate the adult animal in a humancentred world. Socialising cats to a human world is made more challenging than with dogs, in that the kittens often remain with the breeder until after the socialisation period has finished. Kittens are often secluded in their new homes and are rarely introduced to unusual situations, such as car journeys and restraint by strangers. The end of the socialisation period is less clear, with the beginnings around 8 weeks but may continue for longer. The end is marked by a more cautious approach to life and new experiences, with a degree of restraint shown before running up to a new dog or person. This new suspicion of novelty can extend to food items, with different textures or tastes being refused in preference to more familiar items. Using social structure within the home or practice By understanding the normal social structure of cats we can look the environments we place them in, and suggest ways of reducing stress and improving the quality of the time they are in our care. There are many difficulties with kennelling cats within the practice environment, due to the constraints of
4 size and facilities available. However, there are often little changes that can be done that can provide a more acceptable area for the cat. Cats live in a 3-D world, so at home we can utilise the space within quite a small area by providing shelves, cupboards, climbing frames, and so on. This not only allows the cat to escape unwanted attention, but allows several sleeping areas if there are multiple cats within the household. Cats, being a prey animal, feel more secure in a raised area where they are out of harm s way and can see trouble approaching. By providing several raised areas the cat can choose where it wants to sleep, and reduce conflict over occupied places. Similarly, other resources such as litter trays and feed bowls need to be numerous, to avoid the need to share and increase the potential for conflict. The sharing of resources, especially sleeping areas, can improve the relationship between cats in the household, or between cats and their owners, with the sharing of communal scent. Familiar scents on resting places such as cat beds, sofas or human beds help develop a sense of identity that more gregarious social species achieve through body language, allogrooming and social play. The feline system of shared scent is more subtle, but no less meaningful to provide a sense of group identity, familiarity and therefore security. In a hospital setting, we can use these principles to try to reduce the stress seen in our patients. For long stay patients, a raised shelf within the kennel may be advantageous, especially for separating sleeping areas, food bowls and litter trays. In more standard kennels, the use of cardboard boxes that can be disposed off when the patient goes home, or igloo type beds that can be washed and disinfected, can provide the cat with a safe and defendable sleeping place. The provision of a toy or blanket carrying the owner s scent, or of cats from home, can supply some familiarity and security. The use of feline facial pheromones may also provide calming signals in an inherently stressful environment (Kakuma and Bradshaw, 2001). Communication As previously stated, cats are not a gregarious social species, and are considered a prey animal, so understanding feline communication can be quite challenging. Their body language and vocalisations are more subtle than dogs, and they are less forthcoming with their intentions. The communication repertoire in cats is less than with dogs, particularly with the come closer signals. As we know dogs have several different facial expressions, body postures and gestures that encourage others to interact, fuss or play with them. Cats have far fewer appealing gestures, although that is not to say they are absent. The most familiar types of communication in cats is the stay away set of signals, involving raised hackles, arched back, flattened ears and accompanying hissing or growling. This set of gestures is generally very obvious and effective. To understand feline behaviour, we need to appreciate the different ways in which cats communicate with each other and with humans. The signs are often there, but are less conspicuous and easily suppressed. The sense of smell is well developed in the cat, and scent is an important communicator for this species. The shared scent of the cat s community has already been mentioned, so the smell of familiar cats can communicate friendship and acceptance. Urine and faeces are also deposited at particular sites to communicate territory or ownership. Spraying within the house can be a sign of territorial marking in adolescent, entire male cats, but can also indicate insecurity and a need to identify a core area of home. Scent marking of a territory or
5 ownership can also be achieved by rubbing the side of the face, rubbing under the chin or by scratching and releasing scent from gland in the face and the feet. As with spraying, objects regularly scratched or rubbed against will often be in busy pathways within the house or garden so the scent will be encountered by as many other cats as possible. Strange cats will investigate these markers, and the chemical messages within may illicit the Flehmen response where the cat s top lip is raised to reveal its upper incisors, and air is taken into the vomeronasal gland or Jacobsen s organ for analysis. This is particularly common during the breeding season when males identify the reproductive status of the females. Vocalisations can be very informative in cats, with many breeds as well as individuals being chatty. Siamese and Oriental breeds are notorious for being vocal, and many moggies regularly chirp conversationally with their owners. Talkative chirrups, mews and meows are often used for greeting and social bonding interactions with owners, although rarely used between cats. Purring is commonly believed to be a sign of contentment, but a care soliciting/giving message may be more appropriate. Cats are often heard purring in stressful situations or when in pain, and this may be an I m a kitten please look after me vocalisation reminiscent of purring, suckling kittens. Purring is more commonly heard when the cat is relaxed, with or without company, but more commonly with humans or other cats. More dramatic vocalisations occur when the cat is stressed or angry and wishes the other party to go away. As previously mentioned, the stay away signals are more obvious and serve to reduce the likelihood of a physical encounter. Growling, hissing and spitting are used in combination with body language to communicate the animal s displeasure and will raise in volume in response the cat s increasing agitation. As with aggressive behavioural patterns in dogs, aggressive displays by cats are designed to prevent conflict and the risk of injury. Only when these signals are ignored will the cat engage in biting and scratching. Body language, as with vocalisations, can relay a lot of information about the cat s intentions and state of mind. With vision being a human s primary sense, we find this method of communication the easiest to interpret and are fairly good at identifying the messages being portrayed. Some postures have developed to communicate with humans only, such as the tail up signal seen when greeting owners or familiar people (Bradshaw, 2002). The cat s tail is held vertical with a slight kink at the tip, often gently quivering similar to a spraying posture but much more relaxed and no urine. Used in combination with vocalisations such as chirruping or meowing, and scent marking such as rubbing, this is a blatant message of ownership, familiarity and social bonding. Other messages can be more subtle, such as with ear position or eye contact. Tail wagging in cats is often seen as a sign of displeasure, but a gentle, relaxed wag can indicate contentment. It may be helpful to compare tail wagging in cats to foot tapping in people. A gentle tap can indicate contentment, whereas stomping and slamming your foot down often conveys annoyance. A relaxed tail gently swaying can escalate to a rigid, purposeful swish of the tail as the cat becomes more agitated. Eye contact is another area of body language when the difference between relaxation and aggression can be subtle. Relaxed facial muscles and a fleeting glance is acceptable to cats, whereas tense facial muscles and a prolonged stare can be very intimidating and threatening. The combination of ear position and height of body can be used to communicate the perceived level of threat. The lower the body to the ground and the flatter the ears, the more intimidated the cat feels. Ears that are folded back as well as flat suggest a frightened cat, while ears that are flat and pointed away from the head suggest an annoyed cat without as much fear. Again, differences between dogs
6 and cats are highlighted by the crouched body stance. In a dog, a lowered body posture indicates fear and submission. In a cat, it simply allows the cat to roll over and release all its weapons teeth and claws. Raised body postures in cats, such as an arched back, are often in response to surprise or insecurity and maintain the option of running away. Mixed messages The social structure and communication signals are very different between humans and cats, and sometimes this can cause problems. Humans instinctively respond as humans, whereas cats will interpret this as cat. Recent interest has been shown in obesity in cats and, in addition to other factors such as palatability of food and method of feeding, this mixing of messages may contribute to the problem. Eating is a social occasion for humans, with the sharing of food symbolising friendship and social acceptance. For cats, eating is a purely functional activity, however, they can learn that eating enables social interactions with their humans. When a cat approaches its owner it is generally engaging in a social bonding behaviour involving rubbing, scent marking and vocalisation. The owner often interprets this as asking for food and will offer a food treat. The cat is designed to eat little and often and will often accept this offering, reinforcing the owners perception that the cat is begging for food. Mixed messages such as these can lead to confusion and conflict in the human/feline relationship. References Bradshaw, JWS, 2002,The Behaviour of the Domestic Cat, CABI Publishing, Wallingford Kakuma, Y and Bradshaw, JWS, 2001, Effects of a feline facial pheromone analogue on stress in shelter cats, In proceedings of the Third International Congress on Veterinary Behavioural Medicine pp McCune, S, 1995, The impact of paternity and early socialisation on the development of cats behaviour to people and novel objects, Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 45, Recommended Reading Bradshaw, JWS, 2002, The Behaviour of the Domestic Cat, CABI Publishing, Wallingford Cannon, M and Forster-van Hijfte, M (2006), Feline Medicine A practical guide for veterinary nurses and technicians, Butterworth Heinemann, Edinburgh Fogle, B, 1991, The Cat s Mind, Pelham Books, London Turner, DC and Bateson, p (Eds), 2000, The Domestic Cat the biology of its behaviour (2 nd Ed), Cambridge University Press, Cambridge
Behaviour of cats and dogs
Behaviour of cats and dogs Unlike cats, dogs are social animals living in packs. Dogs normally live in a group with a well developed social hierarchy and communicate by sight, sound, smell and use of body
More informationANIMAL COMMUNICATION
ANIMAL COMMUNICATION Communication What is communication? Wilson (1970) Action on the part of one organism (or cell) that alters the probability pattern of behavior in another organism (or cell) in an
More informationAppendix 7 Introducing Cats and Dogs
Appendix 7 Introducing Cats and Dogs There are many households where cats and dogs live together peacefully; however, this is not always the case, and situations can occur that are highly stressful and
More informationFELINE SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
FELINE SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR DOMESTICATION ANCESTOR FELIS LIBYCA (AFRICAN WILDCAT) 4000 YEARS AGO CATS DOMESTICATED THEMSELVES? FELINE SOCIAL STRUCTURE FACULTATIVELY SOCIAL BEHAVIORAL FLEXIBILITY DEGREE OF
More informationPET PARENTS. Your guide to transitioning a cat into your home
PET PARENTS Your guide to transitioning a cat into your home Congratulations. T hat cute kitten was simply irresistible, so you are adding a new feline to the family. Or maybe it is an adult cat that caught
More informationBabies, Children and Dogs
Meeting and Greeting a Dog Babies, Children and Dogs The correct way to meet a dog that you do not know is to approach side-on, without making direct eye contact. Glancing and looking away is fine. Fearful
More informationIguana aggression. A relaxed green iguana. Defensive aggression
Iguana aggression Iguanas are still wild animals, they are not domestic animals, and they have just been tamed to enable them to fit into a human lifestyle. Ideally iguanas should be housed in a large
More informationDOG SAFETY AWARENESS
DOG SAFETY AWARENESS We are dedicated to reducing the number of children bitten by dogs every year. This is an information resource for parents and teachers, to teach children how to be safe around dogs;
More informationGolden Rule Training
Homeward Bound Golden Retriever Rescue Golden Rule Training Submissive Urination in Dogs Why do some dogs roll over and urinate? Although not too common, submissive urination is normal part of canine communication.
More informationCATS PROTECTION VETERINARY GUIDES
Spraying and scratching CATS PROTECTION VETERINARY GUIDES Spraying urine and scratching are normal behaviours and can be performed by any cat, whether they are male or female, neutered or entire. However,
More informationSocializing Shy or Feral Cats A Guide for Austin Pets Alive! Foster Parents and Adopters. January, 2014
Socializing Shy or Feral Cats A Guide for Austin Pets Alive! Foster Parents and Adopters January, 2014 Austin Pets Alive! Cat Behavior Team cat-behavior-team@austinpetsalive.org Working with a shy, under-socialized,
More informationHousetraining Your Adopted Dog
Housetraining Your Adopted Dog Most adopters have to deal with housetraining to some degree. Patience, a strict schedule, good cleaning methods and supervision are all the keys to having a reliably housebroken
More informationEnrichment for Indoor Cats Ilona Rodan, DVM, ABVP Dipl., Feline Milwaukee Veterinary Medical Association November 2014
Enrichment for Indoor Cats Ilona Rodan, DVM, ABVP Dipl., Feline Milwaukee Veterinary Medical Association November 2014 Introduction The popularity of the cat as a pet has led to many benefits for the cat
More informationBe Safe with Dogs: Advice for You and Your Family
Be Safe with Dogs: Advice for You and Your Family Dogs are not inherently aggressive and will usually only bite or chase when provoked. Dog bites in Palestine are not common, with only a small number being
More informationPlay-Aggression in Kittens or Cats
Playful aggression towards human beings can occur in cats of any age. You may have witnessed play aggression before: a cat may pounce on and bite a family member who walks by, a hand dangling over the
More informationCalming Signals - The Art of Survival
Calming Signals - The Art of Survival by Turid Rugaas For species who live in packs it s important to be able to communicate with its own kind. Both in order to cooperate when they hunt, to bring up their
More informationNervous and aggressive cats
CAT 19 Nervous and aggressive cats The charity dedicated to helping sick, injured and homeless pets since 1897. Nervous and aggressive cats When taken home as a pet, a cat or kitten may be quiet and wary
More informationPuppy Development. Part One
Puppy Development Part One Periods of Development Neonatal from birth to two weeks - the puppy is totally dependant on its mother Transitional from two to three weeks- the beginning stages of independence
More informationDogs. Bite Prevention. For People Who in the Course of Their Work, Meet Dogs
Dogs Bite Prevention For People Who in the Course of Their Work, Meet Dogs People Who in the Course of Their Work, Meet Dogs. A dog bites out of concern. There are a number of factors that contribute
More informationINTRODUCING YOUR NEW CAT TO YOUR OTHER PETS
INTRODUCING YOUR NEW CAT TO YOUR OTHER PETS It s important to have realistic expectations when introducing a new pet to a resident pet. Some cats are more social than other cats. For example, an eight-year-old
More informationWoof Pack. Community Driven Volunteering
Woof Pack Community Driven Volunteering What does the Woof Pack do? The Woof Pack is a group of volunteers that focus on the behavioral and physical well-being of the dogs under Shelby Humane Society s
More informationHELP YOUR CAT BEHAVE BETTER WITH FELIWAY.
HELP YOUR CAT BEHAVE BETTER WITH FELIWAY. Best behavior starts here. feliway.com/us Feliway can help take a cat from stressed out to chilled out. You have things that cause you stress - so does your cat.
More informationNOTE: Sometimes trying to urinate and missing the tray may also be a sign that the animal may have a urinary or bladder infection or inflammation.
Product Name: AN 001 Stress Spray No More 5 Pages: Suitability: Cats, dogs and rabbits Related Products: Last Updated: 11-01-18 This is a homeopathic and Bach flowers combination for stressed, upset and
More informationAggression in Cats. What Is Aggression? Understanding Cat Body Language
Aggression in Cats Aggression is the second most common feline behavior problem seen by animal behaviorists. Although cat aggression is sometimes taken less seriously than dog aggression perhaps because
More informationWELCOME TO THE DOG SAFETY INFORMATION TALK
WELCOME TO THE DOG SAFETY INFORMATION TALK A BIT ABOUT ADVANCE BEHAVIOURAL TRAINING Otherwise referred to as ABT we are a Dog Behavioural Training school and Doggy daycare centre. We offer a range of services
More informationGuide Dogs Puppy Development and Advice Leaflet. No. 4 Identifying and preventing aggressive behaviours inguide dog puppies
Guide Dogs Puppy Development and Advice Leaflet No. 4 Identifying and preventing aggressive behaviours inguide dog puppies 1 Table of Contents 3 Standard 3 What is aggression? 4 Motivators for aggressive
More informationDane County Friends of Ferals 627 Post Road Madison, WI Telephone: (608) Website: daneferals.org
Dane County Friends of Ferals 627 Post Road Madison, WI 53713 Telephone: (608) 274-4940 Website: daneferals.org Feline Behavior Assessment Modified from the ASPCA s Meet Your Match Feline-ality Assessment
More informationLapal Primary School Dog Policy. Policy Ownership: (SLT)
Lapal Primary School Dog Policy Policy Ownership: (SLT) Document live date: 30/04/2018 Reviewed: Annually School Dog Policy Introduction A variety of animals, including dogs, are becoming an ever-popular
More informationFrom The Real Deal on Dogs by David Muriello. How to Choose a Great Dog (The Checklist)
From The Real Deal on Dogs by David Muriello http:// How to Choose a Great Dog (The Checklist) April 20, 2010 by realdealdave A great dog is the one that s great for YOU and YOUR LIFESTYLE. I recently
More informationCAT QUESTIONNAIRE. This will help determine the possible cause(s), prognosis and management plan for their behaviour problem(s).
CAT QUESTIONNAIRE Please answer the following questions as thoroughly as possible to help describe the environment, social interactions, history and behaviour of your cat. This will help determine the
More informationYour cat and your baby
cat 25 Your cat and your baby The charity dedicated to helping sick, injured and homeless pets since 1897. Your cat and your baby As soon as you know there is a baby on the way, you and your family will
More informationEllen M. Lindell, V.M.D., D.A.C.V.B Telephone (845) / Fax.(845) P.O. Box 1605, Pleasant Valley, NY
Ellen M. Lindell, V.M.D., D.A.C.V.B Telephone (845) 473-7406 / Fax.(845) 454-5181 P.O. Box 1605, Pleasant Valley, NY 12569 emlvmd@earthlink.net BEHAVIOR QUESTIONNAIRE FOR CATS Client Name: Date: Address:
More informationSafety around dogs. The Battersea code with Bat & Zee. Battersea Dogs & Cats Home 4 Battersea Park Road London SW8 4AA
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home Battersea Park Road London SW8 AA Old Windsor Priest Hill, Old Windsor Berkshire SL JN Brands Hatch Crowhurst Lane Ash, Kent TN 7HH The Battersea code with Bat & Zee Safety around
More informationUnderstanding Your Dog s Body Language
Understanding Your Dog s Body Language Dogs are one of the most expressive animals on the planet. Along with barking, body language is their primary means of communication. Their conscious and unconscious
More informationProceedings of the World Small Animal Veterinary Association Mexico City, Mexico 2005
Close this window to return to IVIS Proceedings of the World Small Animal Veterinary Association Mexico City, Mexico 2005 Hosted by: Reprinted in the IVIS website with the permission of the WSAVA Behaviour
More informationThis is interesting. Dogs, like people, use body language to express feelings.
This is interesting. Dogs, like people, use body language to express feelings. Canine Communication 101 Pussycat Posture Can You Read the Body Language? Cute, Cuddly Trusted Companion Faithful
More informationAggression Social Aggression to Unfamiliar Dogs
Aggression Social Aggression to Unfamiliar Dogs 803-808-7387 www.gracepets.com Why would my dog fight with dogs he has never met? Aggression between unfamiliar dogs can be due to fear, hierarchal competition,
More informationUnderstanding Fear and Anxiety in Pets
Understanding Fear and Anxiety in Pets Valarie V. Tynes, DVM, DACVB Premier Veterinary Behavior Consulting Sweetwater, Texas pigvet@hughes.net Anxiety and fear are some of the most common contributing
More informationMoving house and travelling with dogs
DOG 22 Moving house and travelling with dogs The charity dedicated to helping sick, injured and homeless pets since 1897. Moving house and travelling with dogs New situations and experiences can be stressful
More informationAnnual Review of Cases 2003
Annual Review of Cases 2003 Review author Jan Hoole PhD Veterinary advice provided by Caroline Bower BVM&S MRCVS Dip CABC Introduction This APBC Annual Review of Cases, based on data submitted by participating
More informationProceedings of the European Veterinary Conference Voorjaarsdagen
Close this window to return to IVIS www.ivis.org Proceedings of the European Veterinary Conference Voorjaarsdagen Apr. 13-15, 2016 Next Meeting: April 1 -, 201 The Hague, The Netherlands Reprinted in IVIS
More informationGarston Animal Rescue
New Cat or Kitten There is a wealth of information online, which will tell you everything you need to know about cats and how to care for them. We recommend that you spend some time reading this information,
More informationFeline Environmental Enrichment Gentle Paws
Feline Environmental Enrichment Gentle Paws www.gentlepawsdogtraining.com Cats can be a great source of comfort, love and companionship; but when their behavior creates havoc in your life it can be very
More informationCanine Body Language. Dog Faces
Canine Body Language Dogs are very expressive animals. They communicate when they re feeling happy, sad, nervous, fearful and angry, and they use their faces and bodies to convey much of this information.
More informationKitten kindergarten: the way forward for socialisation?
Vet Times The website for the veterinary profession https://www.vettimes.co.uk Kitten kindergarten: the way forward for socialisation? Author : Francesca Riccomini Categories : RVNs Date : March 1, 2008
More informationINCOMING CAT PROFILE
Animal Rescue League of Boston INCOMING CAT PROFILE The following questionnaire provides us with information about how your cat behaved in many different circumstances while he or she was living with you.
More informationCat Surrender Profile
Cat Surrender Profile GENERAL INFORMATION Intake Date: Animal ID #: Cat s Name: Age: Is your cat? Male Female Unknown Is the cat spayed/neutered? Yes No Unknown Does this cat have: Tattoo Microchip Not
More informationImproving Companion Animal Welfare. 1. How To Improve Welfare. 1.1 How To Improve Welfare
Improving Companion Animal Welfare 1. How To Improve Welfare 1.1 How To Improve Welfare 1.2 In This Session 1.3 How To Improve Welfare? 2. Identfying Poor Welfare 2.1 Identifying Poor Welfare 2.2 What
More informationCat - Module 1: Animal Characteristics
Version 1 Crampton Consulting Group 2016 Page 1 of 11 Notices WARNING This material has been reproduced and communicated to you by, or on behalf of, Animal Industries Resource Centre and Crampton Consulting
More informationFERAL CAT CARETAKERS COALITION HOW TO DOMESTICATE AND CARE FOR FERAL OR RESCUED KITTENS
1 FERAL CAT CARETAKERS COALITION HOW TO DOMESTICATE AND CARE FOR FERAL OR RESCUED KITTENS To domesticate means to adapt to life in intimate association with humans Feral and rescued kittens are the offspring
More informationAvoiding Dog Bites. Can you read dog body language? Canine Body Language
Avoiding Dog Bites Canine Body Language Dog Bite Statistics According to the Centers for Disease Control: Each year about 4.7 million people are victims of dog bites; of these, 800,000 people receive medical
More informationAdopting a rescue dog
Adopting a rescue dog There are a variety of reasons why a dog may end up in a rescue centre, these may include, a change of circumstances e.g. change in job or home, a partnership splitting up, starting
More informationWritten by Deb Colgan of Riley s Place published on October 24, 2008
How to Meet a Dog Written by Deb Colgan of Riley s Place published on October 24, 2008 We've all either seen it or heard about it. You, your child, a friend... name it... goes to meet a dog who looks perfectly
More informationOur guide to. neutering.
Our guide to neutering www.themayhew.org What is neutering? Neutering is the name for a veterinary procedure which offers animals a permanent solution for birth control. It may also be known as spaying,
More informationStudy Skills-Paragraph & Essay Structure
Study Skills-Paragraph & Essay Structure An essay is a common form of student writing that is usually a response to a question or in some instances is an argument or justification around a topic, issue
More informationAGGRESSION (CATS) DIAGNOSING AND TREATING
AGGRESSION (CATS) DIAGNOSING AND TREATING Aggression is a serious and dangerous behavior problem for cat owners. There are many different types of aggression. Making a diagnosis, determining the prognosis
More informationREHOMING A RESCUE DOG: an all-encompassing guide
REHOMING A RESCUE DOG: an all-encompassing guide This guide is brought to you by Dr Ashley Gray MA VetMB PhD MRCVS, dog insurance provider Vetsure s founder. AN INTRODUCTION It s estimated that in 2015,
More informationBE SAFE AROUND DOGS. Tips and advice for all the family
BE SAFE AROUND DOGS Tips and advice for all the family Millions of people have dogs as pets. In fact we all probably meet dogs every day, at home or when out and about. Dogs come in all shapes, sizes,
More informationBehavior Modification Why Punishment Should Be Avoided
24 Behavior Modification Why Punishment Should Be Avoided What is punishment? Punishment is any intervention intended to decrease the occurrence of an action or behavior. Commonly utilized punishments
More informationA guide to introducing dogs to babies and children
A guide to introducing dogs to babies and children 2 Dogs and babies Once you ve heard the good news that you re expecting a baby, there are lots of things you ll need to prepare in time for your newborn
More informationGuide to Cat. & Kitten Fostering
Guide to Cat & Kitten Fostering Who are we? There are 160 branches of the RSPCA in England and Wales, of which we are one. Each is an independent, separately registered charity responsible for rehabilitating
More informationDoggone Crazy! Parent Guide SAFE OR DANGEROUS? Doggone Crazy! Parent Guide
Doggone Crazy! Parent Guide Doggone Crazy! is intended to introduce the tools children and parents/guardians can use to help reduce the risk of occurrence of a dog bite. Most dog bite victims are children
More informationFELINE BEHAVIOUR CONSULTATION QUESTIONNAIRE
Drs. Mark Ledyard, Jennifer Knepshield, Beth Rhyne, Erin Husted, Jaclyn Amber, & Mary Peters 208 Charlotte Street, Asheville, NC 28801 828-232-0440 FELINE BEHAVIOUR CONSULTATION QUESTIONNAIRE Please drop
More informationCats See Us Less. AAHA Web Conference: Becoming a Cat Friendly Practice. February 20 - March 4, Oh Where, Oh Where Have Our Feline Friends Gone?
Becoming a Cat February 20 March 4, 2012 By Elizabeth Colleran, DVM, MS 2011 AAFP President In collaboration with The American Association of Feline Practitioners and Cat AAHA gratefully acknowledges Pfizer
More informationFABULOUS FELINES LESSON 4: Grades 4-6 LEARNING TO SPEAK CAT
FABULOUS FELINES LESSON 4: Grades 4-6 LEARNING TO SPEAK CAT Show-Me Standards: Academic Goals: 1.2, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 2.1, 2.3, 3.1, 3.3, 3.5, 4.1 Knowledge Goals: Communication Arts-3, 5, 7; Science-4,
More informationCanine Body Language. Cold Nose Companions, LLC Dog Training DOGS (3647)
Canine Body Language Because dogs have very limited verbal communication abilities, they do most of their communicating nonverbally, or through body language. Your dog is communicating to you or other
More informationCat Surrender Profile
Dutchess County SPCA 636 Violet Avenue Hyde Park, NY 12538 Phone: 845-452-7722 Fax: 802-452-1886 info@dcspca.org Cat Surrender Profile No one knows and loves your cat the way you do! In order to find the
More informationCAT 16 FIV. The charity dedicated to helping sick, injured and homeless pets since 1897.
CAT 16 FIV The charity dedicated to helping sick, injured and homeless pets since 1897. FIV FIV is a condition similar to the virus that causes AIDS in people, although there is no risk of people catching
More informationIf they don t have a box they do their best to hide
Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Hiding Boxes If they don t have a box they do their best to hide Hide Panel Visual barriers between cages Make Other Adjustments Noise reduction - radio moved, off, turned down, station
More informationPolishing up your low stress skills. Dr. Sally J. Foote DVM,CABC-IAABC AVSAB member Okaw Veterinary Clinic Tuscola Il
Polishing up your low stress skills Dr. Sally J. Foote DVM,CABC-IAABC AVSAB member Okaw Veterinary Clinic Tuscola Il Positive veterinary care All staff members are involved in rewarding and low stress
More informationSocializing Feral Kittens
Socializing Feral Kittens Feral cats are not socialized to people and can t be adopted. With some time and attention, however, you can work with young feral kittens to help them become affectionate and
More informationDOG AWARE! helpful hints and useful tips for dog ownership in a FAMILY setting
DOG AWARE! helpful hints and useful tips for dog ownership in a FAMILY setting A dog in the family - think first! can I afford the cost? the cost of the dog, food, vets, vaccinations, castration / spaying,
More informationGeneral Practice Service Willows Information Sheets. Looking after your pregnant cat
General Practice Service Willows Information Sheets Looking after your pregnant cat Looking after your pregnant cat The following information is aimed at ordinary cat owners rather than cat breeders. It
More informationSocialization and Bonding
Socialization and Bonding There are some rats that are by nature more insecure than others. Other rats have not had the benefit of being socialized at an early age. Even the most friendly and outgoing
More informationIt s a wonderful thing when we can help provide a dog less fortunate with a furrever home and we all know how good can that make us feel right??!!
Tips Sheet Congratulations! Firstly congratulations on obtaining your new rescue dog! It s a wonderful thing when we can help provide a dog less fortunate with a furrever home and we all know how good
More informationSurrendered Cat Information Date:
Surrendered Cat Information Date: Animal Code: Pet Name: Spayed/Neutered? Y N I want to be notified if the Placer SPCA is unable to place this animal for adoption. (There is a $25 non-refundable fee for
More informationScared Cat How To Help A Cat Overcome Fear
Scared Cat How To Help A Cat Overcome Fear www.cat-world.com.au/scared-cat.html Julia Wilson May 13, 2017 There may be a number of reasons why a cat may be scared, it can suddenly develop in a usually
More informationPlease visit for more information and lots of wonderful behavioural tips!
Kittens: Introducing your Kitten to Their New Home: As we all know, cats are creatures of habit and very easily stressed out! I would always recommend the use of Feliway which is a calming spray, when
More informationVOLUNTEER INFORMATION
VOLUNTEER INFORMATION P.O. Box 36418 Tucson, AZ 85704-6418 (520) 297-3780 (520) 390-0879 mobile heartsthatpurr@outlook.com Hearts That Purr Feline Guardians Volunteer Information 1 Thank you for interest
More informationConflict-Related Aggression
Conflict-Related Aggression and other problems In the past many cases of aggression towards owners and also a variety of other problem behaviours, such as lack of responsiveness to commands, excessive
More informationAggression and social structure
Aggression and social structure What is aggression? Any behavior that cause injuries to other animal Social interaction with the intention to inflict damage Hostile, injurious or destructive behavior caused
More informationOwner Relinquish Profile - Cats
3100 Cherry Hill Road Ann Arbor, MI 48105 734-662-5585 www.hshv.org Owner Relinquish Profile - Cats Please fully complete this sheet. The information you provide helps us understand and find the best possible
More informationPuppy Behavior and Training Handling and Food Bowl Exercises
Humane Society of Missouri 1201 Macklind Ave, St Louis, MO, 63110 Phone: 314-647-8800 Website: http://www.hsmo.org Puppy Behavior and Training Handling and Food Bowl Exercises What are handling exercises
More informationKitty Comfort Behavior Department Volunteer Training Manual
Kitty Comfort Behavior Department Volunteer Training Manual Thank you for volunteering in the Animal Behavior department as a Kitty Comfort volunteer. This packet includes information to familiarize you
More informationRemember! Life skills for puppies
Life skills for puppies Remember! The goal is for him to be able to choose to perform the appropriate response himself, rather than having to be asked to do so. If your pup sits to greet people, ensure
More informationEnglish *P48988A0112* E202/01. Pearson Edexcel Functional Skills. P48988A 2015 Pearson Education Ltd. Level 2 Component 2: Reading
Write your name here Surname Other names Pearson Edexcel Functional Skills English Level 2 Component 2: Reading 9 13 November 2015 Time: 60 minutes You may use a dictionary. Centre Number Candidate Number
More informationCat Owner Questionnaire
Animal Code # Cat Owner Questionnaire 1067 NE Columbia Blvd Portland, Oregon 97211 503-285-7722 Fax 503-285-0838 www.oregonhumane.org No one knows and loves your cat the way you do! In order to find the
More informationProject Snip and Tip
Project Snip and Tip Guidelines for Trap Neuter - Return Caloosa Humane Society is the administrator of this program. We will organize the trapping, transport, vetting and release of feral cats. Cats must
More informationCanine Aggression Overview of Diagnosis and Treatment
Canine Aggression Overview of Diagnosis and Treatment 803-808-7387 www.gracepets.com Aggression is the most serious and dangerous behavior problem that dog owners may need to face. Since there are many
More informationCAT/KITTEN SURRENDER PROFILE FORM Completed form must be submitted at scheduled surrender appointment. Contact Information (*Required):
CAT/KITTEN SURRENDER PROFILE FORM Completed form must be submitted at scheduled surrender appointment. Contact Information (*Required): *Name of Person/Owner Surrendering *Phone Email *Street Address *City
More informationMental stim ulation it s not just for dogs!! By Danielle Middleton- Beck BSc hons, PGDip CABC
Milo, Congo African Grey by Elaine Henley Mental stim ulation it s not just for dogs!! By Danielle Middleton- Beck BSc hons, PGDip CABC Dexter, Green Iguana by Danielle Middleton-Beck Exotic pets include
More informationDog Behavior and Training - Moving with Your Dog
Kingsbrook Animal Hospital 5322 New Design Road, Frederick, MD, 21703 Phone: (301) 631-6900 Website: KingsbrookVet.com Dog Behavior and Training - Moving with Your Dog Our family is moving. Should I be
More informationMike Jessop Ash Veterinary Surgery Merthyr Tydfil
Mike Jessop Ash Veterinary Surgery Merthyr Tydfil Enrichment Enrichment Training Enrichment Positive Reward Based Training Quiet time training Calming therapies Design Enrichment Kennel design 3D facilities
More informationGeneral Information: Date and time of consultation (if scheduled): Clinic address: City/Town: Clinic phone: ( ) Who referred you to our service?
FELINE BEHAVIOUR CONSULTATION QUESTIONNAIRE Osgoode Veterinary Services, 5721 Osgoode Main St., Osgoode, ON K0A 2W0 Colleen Wilson, BSc, DVM, Resident ACVB, Gary Landsberg, DVM, DACVB, Dip. ECVBM-CA TEL:
More informationDog Behavior and Training - Teaching Calm Settle and Relaxation Training
Page 1 of 5 Dog Behavior and Training - Teaching Calm Settle and Relaxation Training Why should I teach my dog to settle? Many behavior problems have a component of fear, anxiety or excessive arousal so
More informationDog Behavior Problems Veterinary Visits/Examinations
104 Dog Behavior Problems Veterinary Visits/Examinations Desensitization/Reducing Fear Why might my dog show aggressive responses at the veterinary office? Many dogs are afraid when they come to the veterinary
More informationDelaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue 60 Vera Cruz Rd., Reinholds, PA (717) Behavioral Assessment: Dog Name Josey #2
Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue 60 Vera Cruz Rd., Reinholds, PA 17569 (717) 484-4799 www.dvgrr.org Behavioral Assessment: Dog Name Josey #2 ID NO: 17-294 Arrival Date: 11/7 Date Tested: 11/20 Tested
More informationIN THE LINE OF DUTY. What Dogs Try To Tell Cops
IN THE LINE OF DUTY SPECIAL ISSUE FACT SHEET What Dogs Try To Tell Cops Program Length 23:50 IN THE LINE OF DUTY is produced exclusively as an interactive sharing resource for the law enforcement community.
More informationBear Awareness Training
Bear Awareness Training Please review the following presentation. In order to move the presentation forward or back, simply click on your mouse or use your scroll wheel. If you have any questions on how
More informationSchool Pet Policy. Policy date: September Review date: September Governors Approval: 28 th September 2016
School Pet Policy Policy date: 016 Review date: 018 Chair of Governors: Bob Paton Governors Approval: 8 th 016 Please note that Simon Hanson is our Chair of Governors as from 9 th November 016 Introduction
More information