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Gerken A, Lee K, Bain M, Kim SA. Correlation between aggression at the veterinary clinic and problem behaviors at home for cats in the USA. J Feline Med Surg 2024; 26:1098612X231214907. [PMID: 38415601 PMCID: PMC10911309 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x231214907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to determine whether cats that exhibit aggression during veterinary visits are more likely to have behavior problems at home. METHODS An online, anonymous, cross-sectional survey was developed and distributed to residents in the USA who were aged over 18 years and who were the primary owners of at least one cat. The survey collected information about cat and household factors, and utilized a validated questionnaire instrument for obtaining behavioral information of pet cats. RESULTS Aggression at the veterinary clinic was reported in 42.6% of the cats. The frequency of aggression exhibited at the veterinary clinic was lower in cats that lived in multi-cat households. Most cats did not receive medications intended to reduce fear, anxiety and/or pain before veterinary visits. Aggression at the veterinary clinic was positively associated with behavior problems at home, including stranger-directed aggression, owner-directed aggression, resistance to restraint, familiar cat aggression, dog-directed aggression, house-soiling, separation-related behaviors and scratching claws on inappropriate surfaces indoors. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Cats that exhibit aggression at the veterinary clinic are more likely to exhibit aggression and anxiety-related behaviors at home. Veterinarians should screen cats that exhibit aggression at the veterinary clinic for behavior problems at home to institute prompt diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Gerken
- Behavior Service, San Francisco SPCA Veterinary Hospital, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kyuyoung Lee
- Institute of Viral Diseases, Department of Microbiology, Korea University, College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Melissa Bain
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Epidemiology, University of California, School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Sun-A Kim
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Chungbuk National University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do, South Korea
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2
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Learn A, Horwitz D. Cat Inappropriate Elimination and its Interaction with Physical Disease. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2024; 54:121-134. [PMID: 37648609 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2023.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Inappropriate elimination or behavioral periuria/perichezia is likely the most reported feline behavioral problem worldwide. A change in behavior is often one of the early signs of physical disease and in addition can aggravate an existing behavioral response. An initial determination of causation is essential; is it medical or behavioral, or a combination of both? Stress activates both the sympathetic adrenomedullary system for short-term responses and the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis for long-term responses. Once medical problems have been treated or ruled out, attention should shift to minimizing and using various therapeutic options to help improve and/or resolve undesirable elimination problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Learn
- Animal Behavior Wellness Center, 1130 Wilkinson Road, Richmond VA 23227, USA.
| | - Debra Horwitz
- Veterinary Behavior Consultations, 321 Carlyle Lake Drive, St Louis, MO 63141, USA
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Padalino B, Zappaterra M, Felici M, Ricci-Bonot C, Nanni Costa L, Houpt K, Tateo A. Factors associated with house-soiling in Italian cats. J Feline Med Surg 2023; 25:1098612X231202482. [PMID: 37975187 PMCID: PMC10812005 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x231202482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the present study was to identify factors associated with house-soiling in Italian cats. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey collected information on respondents' and cats' details and litter management, and whether the cat showed house-soiling. Univariable and multivariable regression models were performed using house-soiling (present/absent) and the type of house-soiling (ie, urinary, faecal, concurrent urinary and faecal) as dummy variables. RESULTS Data from 3106 cats were obtained. The number of dogs and other cats in the household, the cat's age, the number, type and location of the litter boxes, the type of litter, and the frequency of litter scooping and full replacement were retained in the final multivariable regression model for house-soiling (model P <0.001, Akaike information criterion [AIC] = 2454.30). Urinary tract diseases, the type and number of litter boxes and the number of dogs in the household were associated with urinary house-soiling (model P <0.001, AIC = 534.08), and gastroenteric/musculoskeletal diseases, number of litter boxes and litter box location were associated with faecal house-soiling (model P <0.001, AIC = 448.52). Healthy cats, the number of dogs in the household, the type of litter and litter full replacement frequency were retained in the final multivariable regression model for the concurrent expression of urinary and faecal house-soiling (model P <0.001, AIC = 411.47). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Meeting cats' preferences for litter and litter box type, location, behavioural needs and strict litter hygienic conditions is recommended. Cat owners need to be educated to prevent and manage house-soiling in their cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Padalino
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - Martina Zappaterra
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - Martina Felici
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - Claire Ricci-Bonot
- Animal Behaviour, Cognition and Welfare Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
| | - Leonardo Nanni Costa
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - Katherine Houpt
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Alessandra Tateo
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari, Bari, Puglia, Italy
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Pereira JS, Salgirli Demirbas Y, Meppiel L, Endersby S, da Graça Pereira G, De Jaeger X. Efficacy of the Feliway® Classic Diffuser in reducing undesirable scratching in cats: A randomised, triple-blind, placebo-controlled study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292188. [PMID: 37851638 PMCID: PMC10584138 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Scratching the environment is a natural behaviour that cats use for communication and physical maintenance purposes, however when it is carried out on household furniture it is considered unacceptable for some owners and even grounds for relinquishment of cats. The objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy of FELIWAY® Classic Diffuser in reducing undesirable scratching (scratching vertical surfaces indoors other than the scratching post) in cats. A 28 day, randomised, triple-blind, placebo-controlled study with a total of 1060 caregiver-cat dyads was conducted. The study contained two groups: the Pheromone Group consisted of caregivers who were given a pheromone diffuser (n = 546) and the Placebo Group consisted of caregivers who were given a placebo diffuser (n = 514). A questionnaire with three subsections was distributed online. The first section, completed by the respondents at day 0, inquired about the cats' daily routines, social and physical environments, behaviour, temperament, and emotional states. The second section filled on day 0, 7, 14, and 28, assessed the Frequency and the Intensity of the undesirable scratching problem and the effectiveness of the product. The last section, filled on the 28th day of the product application, related to the caregivers' opinions about the product and overall outcome. After 28 days the scratching Frequency reduced for 83.5% of the cats in the Pheromone Group and 68.5% for the Placebo Group (p<0.0001). The Intensity was significantly different between treatment groups at D7 (p = 0.0170), at D14 (p = 0.0189) and at D28 (p<0.001). The reduction of the Global Index Score, which was calculated by multiplying the Intensity with the Frequency, was significantly higher for the Pheromone Group (p<0.001). This study provides direct evidence that the use of FELIWAY® Classic diffuser significantly reduces the Frequency, Intensity and the Global Index Score of undesirable scratching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Soares Pereira
- Egas Moniz Center for Interdisciplinary Research (CiiEM), Egas Moniz School of Health and Science, Caparica, Almada, Portugal
| | | | | | | | - Gonçalo da Graça Pereira
- Egas Moniz Center for Interdisciplinary Research (CiiEM), Egas Moniz School of Health and Science, Caparica, Almada, Portugal
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Tateo A, Ricci-Bonot C, Felici M, Zappaterra M, Nanni Costa L, Houpt K, Padalino B. Litter Management Practices and House-Soiling in Italian Cats. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2382. [PMID: 37508159 PMCID: PMC10376366 DOI: 10.3390/ani13142382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
There are about 10.1 million domestic cats in Italy, but information on cats' litter management and house-soiling prevalence is scant. This study described cats' and cat owners' profiles, litter management practices, and whether cats show house-soiling, also comparing between professionals (i.e., breeders) and amateurs (i.e., pet owners). A cross-sectional online survey sought respondents' housing, family, and cat details, as well as other pet details, litter details, and whether the cats showed house-soiling. Data for a total of 3106 cats were obtained. Italian cats lived mainly in apartments, along with other cats or dogs. Italians owned mostly adult European breed cats, to whom they provided covered litter boxes filled with clumping substrates, scooped daily, and completely replaced weekly. Litter cleaning was more frequent when cats were owned for financial purposes (i.e., breeders) rather than for companionship, but more space was provided for pets than for breeding cats. The recalled prevalence of elimination problems (16.7%) was lower compared to other studies, with cats mainly eliminating urine (54.6%) on objects in squatting posture (35.2%). Overall, this research increased our understanding of cat litter management in Italy. These findings could fill a gap in the knowledge regarding litter management and house-soiling incidences in Italy. Further studies to investigate possible risk factors for house-soiling are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Tateo
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Claire Ricci-Bonot
- Animal Behaviour, Cognition and Welfare Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincolnshire LN6 7TS, UK
| | - Martina Felici
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Martina Zappaterra
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Leonardo Nanni Costa
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Katherine Houpt
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY 14850-9535, USA
| | - Barbara Padalino
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
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Khoddami S, Kiser MC, Moody CM. Why can't we be friends? Exploring factors associated with cat owners' perceptions of the cat-cat relationship in two-cat households. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1128757. [PMID: 37051515 PMCID: PMC10083434 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1128757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Most research examining cat behavior in multi-cat households lacks focus on one group size. This gap in knowledge reduces generalizability of research findings to specific compositions of cats in multi-cat households. Given that many cat-owning households in Canada and the US are comprised of two cats, the following study used a cross-sectional survey to explore cat owners' perceptions of the cat-cat relationship in two-cat households in Canada and the US. A total of 6,529 owners of two cats completed the online questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data and a logistic regression model used to assess various explanatory variables (i.e., household, management, and cat-specific factors) associated with participants perceiving their cats' relationship as negative. The logistic regression model showed that owners of two-cat households are more likely to perceive their cats' relationship as negative if both cats are spayed females, adult or mature, have a large gap in age, not related, one or both have access to the outdoors, or show aggression toward people or other animals in the home. Having multiple litterbox and feeding areas were also associated with a more negative cat-cat relationship. Overall, the complex interplay, directionality, and temporality of these factors requires further investigation for a full understanding of how to improve the cat-cat relationship in two-cat households. More research is needed to provide evidence-based recommendations for managing and supporting a positive cat-cat relationship in the home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherry Khoddami
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Makayla C. Kiser
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Carly M. Moody
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Carly M. Moody
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Miszczak M, Wyleżoł O, Prorok P, Bierowiec K. An unexpected cause of dysuria in a cat in Poland. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:399. [DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03493-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Urinary tract infestation by Capillaria spp. in domestic cats is rather rare, but can cause clinical symptoms and affect behaviour. To our knowledge, this report is the first to describe a case of urinary capillariosis in a cat in Poland.
Case presentation
A female formerly stray cat aged about 1.5 years showing dysuria, stranguria, periuria and lethargy was presented at the veterinary clinic. Urinalysis revealed the presence of Capillaria plica eggs in the sediment. The cat was treated successfully with three topical doses of Broadline (Merial, Toulouse, France).
Conclusions
C. plica is a nematode whose definitive hosts are carnivores, which are infected by eating earthworms (the intermediate hosts). Thus, C. plica infestation is more frequent in wild carnivores and dogs, and rare in cats. Symptomatic bladder capillariosis in cats is very rarely diagnosed and described.
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Owner Perceived Behavior in Cats and the Influence of Husbandry Practices, Housing and Owner Attitudes in Sweden. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12192664. [PMID: 36230406 PMCID: PMC9558977 DOI: 10.3390/ani12192664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
This study consisted of an online survey based on a convenience sample among cat owners in Sweden. The aim was to investigate how owner and cat characteristics influenced the perceived behavior of cats, focusing on perceived behavioral or temperamental problems. The relation between owner knowledge, the provided environment, and owner perceived behavior of 3253 pet cats were investigated. Few respondents (18%) reported behavioral or temperamental problems, and consequently 82% perceived no problem whatsoever. Fewer cats with outdoor access were reported to display behavioral or temperamental problems. However, there was no effect of the length of time a cat was left home alone. Having studied animal behavior at university level influenced the perception of some cat behaviors, but not the incidence of reporting perceived problems. Many owners did not believe that it was possible to prevent behavioral problems in cats by training (58.5%), and many owners thought that cats could manage independently on their own (66%). Attitudes like this can cause challenges in the owner-cat interactions. The perception of problems with cats will be influenced by factors relating to husbandry routines such as outdoor access, which in the future could help to implement recommendations for cat husbandry and care.
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9
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Kim SA, Bain MJ. Animal Behavior Case of the Month. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2022; 260:1797-1799. [DOI: 10.2460/javma.22.05.0189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sun-A Kim
- Clinical Animal Behavior Service, Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, Chungbuk National University, Korea
| | - Melissa J. Bain
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
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10
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Human-cat emotional closeness and unacceptable behavior in cats: A Brazilian perspective. J Vet Behav 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2022.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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11
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Conspecific and Human Sociality in the Domestic Cat: Consideration of Proximate Mechanisms, Human Selection and Implications for Cat Welfare. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030298. [PMID: 35158622 PMCID: PMC8833732 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sociality can be broadly defined as the ability and tendency of individuals to reside in social groups with either conspecifics and/or other species. More specifically, sociability relates to the ability and tendency of individuals to display affiliative behaviours in such contexts. The domestic cat is one of the most globally popular companion animals and occupies a diverse range of lifestyles. Despite an arguably short period of domestication from an asocial progenitor, the domestic cat demonstrates an impressive capacity for both intra- and interspecific sociality and sociability. At the same time, however, large populations of domestic cats maintain various degrees of behavioural and reproductive autonomy and are capable of occupying solitary lifestyles away from humans and/or conspecifics. Within social groups, individuals can also vary in their tendency to engage in both affiliative and agonistic interactions, and this interindividual variation is present within free-living populations as well as those managed in confined environments by humans. Considerable scientific enquiry has focused on cats’ social behaviour towards humans (and conspecifics to a much lesser extent) in this latter context. Ontogeny and human selection, in addition to a range of proximate factors including social and environmental parameters and individual cat and human characteristics, have been highlighted as important moderators of cats’ sociability. Such factors may have important consequences regarding individuals’ adaptability to the diverse range of lifestyles that they may occupy. Where limitations to individuals’ social capacities do not enable sufficient adaption, compromises to their wellbeing may occur. This is most pertinent for cats managed by humans, given that the physical and social parameters of the cats’ environment are primarily dictated by people, but that positive human-selection for traits that enhance cats’ adaptability to such lifestyles appears to be limited. However, limitations in the availability and quality of evidence and equivocal findings may impede the current understanding of the role of certain factors in relation to cat sociability and associations with cat wellbeing, although such literature gaps also present important opportunities for further study. This review aims to summarise what is currently known about the various factors that may influence domestic cats’ sociality and sociability towards both humans and conspecifics, with a predominant focus on cats managed by humans in confined environments. Current limitations, knowledge gaps, and implications for cat wellbeing are also discussed.
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Mikkola S, Salonen M, Hakanen E, Sulkama S, Lohi H. Reliability and Validity of Seven Feline Behavior and Personality Traits. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11071991. [PMID: 34359119 PMCID: PMC8300181 DOI: 10.3390/ani11071991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Domestic cats are popular pets, and they have personalities, with stable behavior differences between individuals. Lately, feline behavior and personality have been studied with different approaches, for example, with owner-completed questionnaires. The majority of these studies, however, lack a sufficient validation and reliability assessment of the questionnaires used. We designed an online feline behavior and personality questionnaire to collect cat behavior data from their owners. Then, we ran a factor analysis to study the structure of personality and behavior in a dataset of over 4300 cats. For validation, we studied the internal consistency, test-retest reliability, inter-rater reliability, convergent validity and discriminant validity of this questionnaire and extracted factors. In addition, we briefly examined breed differences in the seven discovered factors: fearfulness, activity/playfulness, aggression toward humans, sociability toward humans, sociability toward cats, excessive grooming and litterbox issues. Most of the rank ordering of breeds within each trait paralleled what has been found in previous studies. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire and factors were good, strengthening owner-completed questionnaires as a method to collect behavioral data from pet animals. Breed differences suggest a genetic background for personality. However, these differences should be studied further with multidimensional models, including environmental and biological variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salla Mikkola
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (S.M.); (M.S.); (E.H.); (S.S.)
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Milla Salonen
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (S.M.); (M.S.); (E.H.); (S.S.)
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Emma Hakanen
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (S.M.); (M.S.); (E.H.); (S.S.)
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sini Sulkama
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (S.M.); (M.S.); (E.H.); (S.S.)
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hannes Lohi
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (S.M.); (M.S.); (E.H.); (S.S.)
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +35-829-412-5085
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My Cat and Me-A Study of Cat Owner Perceptions of Their Bond and Relationship. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061601. [PMID: 34072294 PMCID: PMC8228645 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Despite the cat’s popularity as a companion animal, little is known about its bond and relationship with owners. The aim of this study was to identify and characterize the different types of relationship that cats might establish with their owners, using human attachment and social support theories as a framework for the underpinning bond. A questionnaire was developed to gather information regarding different emotional elements that could underpin the relationship; the cat’s potential perception of the owner as a secure base; the owner’s level of engagement with the cat, their sensitivity to the cat’s needs and the consistency of their interactions with the cat. Five distinct forms of cat–owner relationship were identified. These seemed to constitute what we describe as an: “open relationship”, “remote association”, “casual relationship”, “co-dependence” and “friendship”. The extent to which these relationships involved a bond towards the owner as a source of social support or secure attachment varied. Accordingly, we conclude that the cat–owner bond should not be profiled simply or solely in terms of attachment in its classic psychological sense. Abstract Cats form close emotional relationships with humans, yet little is known about this. This study characterized different types of relationship that cats might establish with their owners. Data were analyzed from 3994 responses to a questionnaire developed using expressions of social support and attachment in relation to everyday cat–owner interactions. Principal component analysis reduced the items to four factors: the “owner’s emotional investment in the cat”, “cat’s acceptance of others”, “cat’s need for owner proximity” and “cat’s aloofness”. Cluster identified three groups of owners with two of these each sub-divided into two. The “open relationship bond” was characterized by a lightly emotionally invested owner and an avoidant cat. The “remote association” and “casual relationship” were characterized by an emotionally remote owner but differed in the cat’s acceptance of others. The “co-dependent” and “friendship” relationship were characterized by an emotionally invested owner but differed in the cat’s acceptance of others and need to maintain owner proximity. In conclusion, as with any complex social relationship, the type of cat–owner bond that develops is the product of the dynamic that exists between both the individuals involved, along with certain personality features, of which, the wider sociability of the cat and owner expectations may be particularly important.
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Finka LR, Foreman-Worsley R. Are multi-cat homes more stressful? A critical review of the evidence associated with cat group size and wellbeing. J Feline Med Surg 2021; 24:65-76. [PMID: 34037488 PMCID: PMC8807997 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x211013741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Objectives The primary objective of this review was to conduct a systematic critical appraisal of published literature, in order to assess the evidence regarding the impact of cat group size on cat wellbeing in the domestic home. The secondary objectives were to: (i) identify additional social and environmental mediators of cat wellbeing in these contexts; and (ii) identify general limitations within the current evidence and provide recommendations for future studies. Methods A systematic search of electronic databases (Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar) was conducted using targeted Boolean phrasing. Papers were retained for appraisal of full text where they included a comparison of both single (n = 1) and multi-cat (n ⩾2) domestic housing conditions and/or comparison of different multi-cat group sizes, within a single study, and where they compared outcome measures that were either behavioural and/or physiological and deemed as relevant indicators of cat wellbeing. Results A total of 1334 unique papers were returned, 15 of which were retained. Of these papers, only four stated their primary aim to be an investigation of links between cat group size and cat wellbeing. Overall, the reviewed papers did not indicate consistent directions of effects regarding cat group size and outcome measures relevant to wellbeing. This was similar for the other social and environmental mediators identified. Conclusions and relevance Inconsistency in results is likely due to the substantial methodological variation, limitations in measures used as indicators of wellbeing and limitations in general study designs and reporting. Results also highlight the complex, multifactorial relationships between cat wellbeing and various social and environmental factors. These may be as, if not more, important than absolute numbers of cats residing within a household. Due to the various limitations and general paucity of research, further studies are recommended to provide a suitable evidence base regarding impacts of multi-cat living on cat wellbeing in domestic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren R Finka
- Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Brackenhurst Campus, Southwell, UK
| | - Rachel Foreman-Worsley
- Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Brackenhurst Campus, Southwell, UK
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15
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Liu S, Sung W, Welsh S, Berger JM. A six-year retrospective study of outcomes of surrendered cats (Felis catus) with periuria in a no-kill shelter. J Vet Behav 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2020.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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de Assis LS, Mills DS. Introducing a Controlled Outdoor Environment Impacts Positively in Cat Welfare and Owner Concerns: The Use of a New Feline Welfare Assessment Tool. Front Vet Sci 2021; 7:599284. [PMID: 33505999 PMCID: PMC7829302 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.599284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
There is much debate over the pros and cons of allowing cats to roam freely as opposed to keeping them confined indoors. We surveyed owners who implemented a commercial physical containment system to the outdoors to evaluate their characteristics and the apparent impact of this system on cat welfare and owner perceptions. As part of the latter aim, we also developed a new feline welfare assessment tool based on the mathematical relationship between different measures. The survey was circulated to customers over the preceding 2 years of ProtectaPet® between May and June 2019 and gathered 446 responses. Univariate analyses compared changes following installation on factors such as the amount of time the cat spent outside, other cats entering the owner's garden and owners' concerns about their cat outside. Principal component analysis was used to reduce 21 potential indicators of feline welfare into fewer variables. This resulted in 4 subscales, 2 relating to positive welfare and 2 relating to negative welfare. The effects of installation of the containment system and significant predictors of these four welfare subscales were assessed. The majority of respondents lived in an urban environment with a relatively small garden, had multiple cats and a history of feline trauma associated with a road traffic accident. As expected, the time spent outside significantly increased, while the frequency of other cats entering the garden and owner concern about leaving their cats outside significantly decreased. The 4 welfare subscales grouped into positivity, maintenance behaviors, health issues and fearfulness; installation of the system was associated with significant improvements across all of these. Time spent outside after installation had a significant effect on positivity and, to a lesser extent, maintenance behaviors. Overall, installation was associated with positive changes in both owner and cat quality of life, which seem to be particularly associated with an increased sense of security. This suggests that housing cats within a controlled outside environment with physical barriers can provide a practical solution for many of the problems associated with cats being allowed out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Santos de Assis
- Animal Behaviour Cognition and Welfare Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Simon Mills
- Animal Behaviour Cognition and Welfare Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
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Travnik IDC, Machado DDS, Gonçalves LDS, Ceballos MC, Sant’Anna AC. Temperament in Domestic Cats: A Review of Proximate Mechanisms, Methods of Assessment, Its Effects on Human-Cat Relationships, and One Welfare. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E1516. [PMID: 32867072 PMCID: PMC7552130 DOI: 10.3390/ani10091516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Temperament can be defined as interindividual differences in behavior that are stable over time and in different contexts. The terms 'personality', 'coping styles', and 'behavioral syndromes' have also been used to describe these interindividual differences. In this review, the main aspects of cat temperament research are summarized and discussed, based on 43 original research papers published between 1986 and 2020. We aimed to present current advances in cat temperament research and identify potential gaps in knowledge, as well as opportunities for future research. Proximate mechanisms, such as genetic bases of temperament, ontogenesis and developmental factors, physiological mechanisms, and relationships with morphology, were reviewed. Methods traditionally used to assess the temperament of cats might be classified based on the duration of procedures (short- vs. long-term measures) and the nature of data recordings (coding vs. rating methods). The structure of cat temperament is frequently described using a set of behavioral dimensions, primarily based on interindividual variations in cats' responses toward humans and conspecifics (e.g., friendliness, sociability, boldness, and aggressiveness). Finally, cats' temperaments have implications for human-animal interactions and the one welfare concept. Temperament assessment can also contribute to practical aspects, for example, the adoption of shelter cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isadora de Castro Travnik
- Núcleo de Estudos em Etologia e Bem-estar Animal, Departamento de Zoologia, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG 36036-900, Brazil; (I.d.C.T.); (D.d.S.M.); (L.d.S.G.)
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Comportamento e Biologia Animal, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG 36036-900, Brazil
| | - Daiana de Souza Machado
- Núcleo de Estudos em Etologia e Bem-estar Animal, Departamento de Zoologia, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG 36036-900, Brazil; (I.d.C.T.); (D.d.S.M.); (L.d.S.G.)
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Comportamento e Biologia Animal, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG 36036-900, Brazil
| | - Luana da Silva Gonçalves
- Núcleo de Estudos em Etologia e Bem-estar Animal, Departamento de Zoologia, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG 36036-900, Brazil; (I.d.C.T.); (D.d.S.M.); (L.d.S.G.)
| | - Maria Camila Ceballos
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T3R 1J3, Canada;
| | - Aline Cristina Sant’Anna
- Núcleo de Estudos em Etologia e Bem-estar Animal, Departamento de Zoologia, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG 36036-900, Brazil; (I.d.C.T.); (D.d.S.M.); (L.d.S.G.)
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Provoost LR. Animal Behavior Case of the Month. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2020; 257:277-282. [DOI: 10.2460/javma.257.3.277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Abstract
PRACTICAL RELEVANCE One of the reasons why cats enjoy such a high level of popularity as domestic pets is the fact that they are clean. When there is a breakdown in this fastidious behaviour and elimination occurs outside of the litter box or tray, the strain on the cat-owner bond and on human relationships within the household can be considerable. EVIDENCE BASE Indoor elimination behaviour is one of the most common reasons for cat owners to seek professional advice and there is a wide range of articles, book chapters and research papers that reference it. In many cases the topic of urination and defecation in unacceptable indoor locations is considered in combination with the deposition of urine or faeces as a marker, but this review focuses purely on problematic elimination. An accompanying article in this special issue discusses urine spraying. CLINICAL CHALLENGES Indoor elimination problems necessitate a clinical approach combining knowledge from the fields of physical and emotional health and an understanding of normal feline behaviour. They also require comprehensive history-taking skills as well as effective communication skills and a degree of empathy for owners who are often finding their pet's behaviour very distressing. GLOBAL IMPORTANCE Early diagnosis of physical health disorders that are associated with indoor elimination is extremely important in terms of safeguarding feline welfare. As we become more aware of the interplay between physical and emotional health, the significance of identifying suboptimal social and physical environments in terms of optimising the welfare of domestic cats is also being recognised. The potential for indoor elimination problems to cause considerable human distress highlights the importance of the concepts of One Health and One Welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Heath
- European Veterinary Specialist in Behavioural Medicine (Companion Animals) Behavioural Referrals Veterinary Practice, 10 Rushton Drive, Upton, Chester CH2 1RE, UK
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Mills DS, Demontigny-Bédard I, Gruen M, Klinck MP, McPeake KJ, Barcelos AM, Hewison L, Van Haevermaet H, Denenberg S, Hauser H, Koch C, Ballantyne K, Wilson C, Mathkari CV, Pounder J, Garcia E, Darder P, Fatjó J, Levine E. Pain and Problem Behavior in Cats and Dogs. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E318. [PMID: 32085528 PMCID: PMC7071134 DOI: 10.3390/ani10020318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We argue that there is currently an under-reporting of the ways in which pain can be associated with problem behavior, which is seriously limiting the recognition of this welfare problem. A review of the caseloads of 100 recent dog cases of several authors indicates that a conservative estimate of around a third of referred cases involve some form of painful condition, and in some instances, the figure may be nearly 80%. The relationship is often complex but always logical. Musculoskeletal but also painful gastro-intestinal and dermatological conditions are commonly recognized as significant to the animal's problem behavior. The potential importance of clinical abnormalities such as an unusual gait or unexplained behavioral signs should not be dismissed by clinicians in general practice, even when they are common within a given breed. In general, it is argued that clinicians should err on the side of caution when there is a suspicion that a patient could be in pain by carefully evaluating the patient's response to trial analgesia, even if a specific physical lesion has not been identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S. Mills
- Animal Behavior, Cognition & Welfare Group, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (K.J.M.); (A.M.B.); (L.H.); (H.V.H.); (J.P.)
| | | | - Margaret Gruen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA;
| | - Mary P. Klinck
- Veterinary Behavior Consultant, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC H9X0A6, Canada;
| | - Kevin J. McPeake
- Animal Behavior, Cognition & Welfare Group, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (K.J.M.); (A.M.B.); (L.H.); (H.V.H.); (J.P.)
| | - Ana Maria Barcelos
- Animal Behavior, Cognition & Welfare Group, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (K.J.M.); (A.M.B.); (L.H.); (H.V.H.); (J.P.)
| | - Lynn Hewison
- Animal Behavior, Cognition & Welfare Group, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (K.J.M.); (A.M.B.); (L.H.); (H.V.H.); (J.P.)
| | - Himara Van Haevermaet
- Animal Behavior, Cognition & Welfare Group, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (K.J.M.); (A.M.B.); (L.H.); (H.V.H.); (J.P.)
| | - Sagi Denenberg
- Langford Veterinary Services, University of Bristol, Langford BS40 5DU, UK;
- North Toronto Veterinary Behavior Specialty Clinic, Thornhill, ON L3T 2K9, Canada
| | - Hagar Hauser
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3900 Delancey Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
| | - Colleen Koch
- Animal Behavior Services, Lincoln Land Animal Clinic, Jacksonville, IL 62650, USA;
| | - Kelly Ballantyne
- Insight Animal Behavior Services, P.C., 815 W. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60607, USA;
| | | | - Chirantana V Mathkari
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, MD 20742, USA;
| | - Julia Pounder
- Animal Behavior, Cognition & Welfare Group, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (K.J.M.); (A.M.B.); (L.H.); (H.V.H.); (J.P.)
| | - Elena Garcia
- Ars Veterinaria Hospital. Carrer dels Cavallers, 37, 08034 Barcelona, Spain; (E.G.); (P.D.); (J.F.)
| | - Patrícia Darder
- Ars Veterinaria Hospital. Carrer dels Cavallers, 37, 08034 Barcelona, Spain; (E.G.); (P.D.); (J.F.)
| | - Jaume Fatjó
- Ars Veterinaria Hospital. Carrer dels Cavallers, 37, 08034 Barcelona, Spain; (E.G.); (P.D.); (J.F.)
| | - Emily Levine
- Animal Behavior Clinic of New Jersey, 240 Humphrey St, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA;
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Yamada R, Kuze-Arata S, Kiyokawa Y, Takeuchi Y. Prevalence of 17 feline behavioral problems and relevant factors of each behavior in Japan. J Vet Med Sci 2020; 82:272-278. [PMID: 31969521 PMCID: PMC7118490 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.19-0519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Undesirable behaviors exhibited by cats are regarded as feline behavioral problems. Like
canine behavioral problems, feline behavioral problems are commonly reported by owners.
Thus, in order to advise cat owners appropriately, veterinarians, particularly general
veterinary practitioners, are encouraged to have sufficient knowledge of these problems.
However, in ordinary Japanese homes, only a small number of feline behavioral problems
have been investigated in terms of prevalence and relevant factors. Comprehensive survey
data may improve understanding of feline behavioral problems. In the present study, we
distributed an online survey including general information and questions about 17 feline
behaviors which can be problematic for owners, to investigate: (1) the prevalence of
feline behavioral problems, (2) the most common behavioral problems, and (3) relevant
factors for each behavior. We collected 1,376 valid responses. Among all cats, 75.7%
exhibited at least one behavioral problem. “Pica” and “Showing fear while on the
examination table” were the most frequently reported behavioral problems. To identify
factors related to the expression of each behavior, we conducted multiple logistic
regression analyses, with the presence of behaviors as objective variables and cats’
general information as explanatory variables. Age, sex, breed, number of cats in the
household, and type of residence were each associated with more than one behavior. The
present study revealed the prevalence of 17 feline behavioral problems in Japanese homes
and relevant factors of each behavior. These findings will help veterinarians understand
and address feline behavioral problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryoko Yamada
- Laboratory of Veterinary Ethology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Yayoi 1-1-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Sayaka Kuze-Arata
- Laboratory of Veterinary Ethology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Yayoi 1-1-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan.,Present address: Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Azabu University, Fuchinobe 1-17-71, Chuoh-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan
| | - Yasushi Kiyokawa
- Laboratory of Veterinary Ethology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Yayoi 1-1-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Yukari Takeuchi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Ethology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Yayoi 1-1-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
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Ramos D, Reche-Junior A, Luzia Fragoso P, Palme R, Handa P, Chelini MO, Simon Mills D. A Case-Controlled Comparison of Behavioural Arousal Levels in Urine Spraying and Latrining Cats. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10010117. [PMID: 31936805 PMCID: PMC7022459 DOI: 10.3390/ani10010117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Urination outside the litterbox (also known as periuria) is a very frequent problem seen by veterinary behaviourists and is a common reason for the relinquishment of cats. Veterinary behaviour textbooks describe two forms of periuria (spraying and latrining), including characteristics of both, and speculations, such as spraying is more closely associated with stress. With the aim of evaluating the arousal underpinning emotional stress in cats showing periuria, we studied recorded behaviours as well as faecal cortisol metabolite (FCM) levels of 11 “sprayer” and 12 “latriner” cats along with their controls (i.e., cats that did not show periuria) from the same multi-cat homes of three to nine cats. The results indicated that households in which a cat exhibits urine spraying are generally more aroused than households with latrining cats, but “sprayers” are not more aroused than their housemates. In practical terms, such results suggest that behaviour management to control periuria in these households should be focused on all cats not just the “sprayers”. Abstract It is often suggested that both latrining and spraying in the home are associated with increased stress in cats. However, the scientific evidence for this is weak. We therefore examined faecal cortisol metabolite (FCM) levels in subjects using a case-control design. Eleven spraying and 12 problematic latrining cats (assessed as healthy after detailed medical examinations on an initial population of 18 spraying and 23 latrining cats) were assessed along with behaviourally normal and similarly healthy control subjects from the same multi-cat (n = 3–9) households. Individual faecal samples were collected by owners from both “case” and “control” cats after observing them defecate in all but one pair in each group. A total of five samples per cat (typically taken on a weekly basis) were collected and submitted to extraction procedures prior to FCM analysis via an 11-oxoaetiocholanolone enzyme immunoassay (EIA). Participant cats, both “cases” (nine “sprayers” and eight “latriners”) and controls, were also individually video recorded (together with the owner) for 5 min in a dedicated room. FCM levels were significantly higher in individuals (“sprayers” and their controls) from spraying households than from the latrining households (“latriners” and their controls), but there was no significant difference between cats from the same household. Within a video observation test, cats from spraying houses spent proportionally more time moving (as opposed to stationary), but again there was no difference between cats from the same house. These results indicate that households in which a cat exhibits urine spraying, are generally more aroused, but “sprayers” are not more aroused than their housemates. Accordingly, we suggest appropriate management needs to be applied to the whole household to help alleviate the potential stress of all the cats in the home, and not just the one expressing this through urinary spraying behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Ramos
- Psicovet Canine and Feline Behaviour and Welfare Center, Rua Inhambu 1080, São Paulo 04520-013, Brazil
- Department of Medical Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil; (A.R.-J.); (P.L.F.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-11-993379910
| | - Archivaldo Reche-Junior
- Department of Medical Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil; (A.R.-J.); (P.L.F.)
| | - Priscila Luzia Fragoso
- Department of Medical Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil; (A.R.-J.); (P.L.F.)
| | - Rupert Palme
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Patricia Handa
- Department Experimental Psychology, Psychology Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-030, Brazil; (P.H.); (M.O.C.)
| | - Marie Odile Chelini
- Department Experimental Psychology, Psychology Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-030, Brazil; (P.H.); (M.O.C.)
| | - Daniel Simon Mills
- School of Life Sciences, College of Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK;
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Elzerman AL, DePorter TL, Beck A, Collin JF. Conflict and affiliative behavior frequency between cats in multi-cat households: a survey-based study. J Feline Med Surg 2019. [PMID: 31623526 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x19877988.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to collect information from cat owners about the frequency of conflict and affiliative signs in their households in order to: (1) assess correlations with the owners' ratings of household cat-cat harmony; and (2) determine if relationships exist between household variables, cat population variables and behavior frequencies. METHODS Responses to an online survey of adult residents of the USA who were the primary caregiver of 2-4 indoor or indoor-outdoor cats were included in the analysis. Spearman's correlations and χ2 tests were used to compare behavior frequencies with household and cat population variables. RESULTS Of 2492 owners of multiple cats, 73.3% noted conflict signs from the very beginning when introducing the cats. The more cats in the house, the more frequent the conflict signs. Staring was the most frequently observed conflict sign, occurring at least daily in 44.9% of households, followed, in order of decreasing frequency, by chasing, stalking, fleeing, tail twitching, hissing and wailing/screaming. Hissing occurred at least daily in 18% of households. Affiliative signs were observed more frequently than conflict signs. Physical contact between cats was observed at least daily in around half of the multi-cat households. Higher harmony scores were correlated with less frequent conflict signs and more frequent affiliative signs. No household or cat population variable, including home size or numerically adequate resources provision, was strongly predictive of the frequency of conflict or affiliative signs. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This is the first large-scale online survey to obtain frequencies of conflict and affiliative behaviors and compare them with factors linked to the cats or the home settings. The study confirmed that feline relationships are correlated with the owner's perceived impression of the initial introduction, but other household factors and cat population variables included in the study were not strongly predictive of the frequency of conflict or affiliative signs.
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Elzerman AL, DePorter TL, Beck A, Collin JF. Conflict and affiliative behavior frequency between cats in multi-cat households: a survey-based study. J Feline Med Surg 2019; 22:705-717. [PMID: 31623526 PMCID: PMC7383420 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x19877988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Objectives The objective of this study was to collect information from cat owners about the frequency of conflict and affiliative signs in their households in order to: (1) assess correlations with the owners’ ratings of household cat–cat harmony; and (2) determine if relationships exist between household variables, cat population variables and behavior frequencies. Methods Responses to an online survey of adult residents of the USA who were the primary caregiver of 2–4 indoor or indoor–outdoor cats were included in the analysis. Spearman’s correlations and χ2 tests were used to compare behavior frequencies with household and cat population variables. Results Of 2492 owners of multiple cats, 73.3% noted conflict signs from the very beginning when introducing the cats. The more cats in the house, the more frequent the conflict signs. Staring was the most frequently observed conflict sign, occurring at least daily in 44.9% of households, followed, in order of decreasing frequency, by chasing, stalking, fleeing, tail twitching, hissing and wailing/screaming. Hissing occurred at least daily in 18% of households. Affiliative signs were observed more frequently than conflict signs. Physical contact between cats was observed at least daily in around half of the multi-cat households. Higher harmony scores were correlated with less frequent conflict signs and more frequent affiliative signs. No household or cat population variable, including home size or numerically adequate resources provision, was strongly predictive of the frequency of conflict or affiliative signs. Conclusions and relevance This is the first large-scale online survey to obtain frequencies of conflict and affiliative behaviors and compare them with factors linked to the cats or the home settings. The study confirmed that feline relationships are correlated with the owner’s perceived impression of the initial introduction, but other household factors and cat population variables included in the study were not strongly predictive of the frequency of conflict or affiliative signs.
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Ramos D, Reche-Junior A, Mills DS, Fragoso PL, Daniel AGT, Freitas MF, Cortopassi SG, Patricio G. A closer look at the health of cats showing urinary house-soiling (periuria): a case-control study. J Feline Med Surg 2019; 21:772-779. [PMID: 30261793 PMCID: PMC10814297 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x18801034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to perform a case-control medical evaluation of cats from multi-cat households presenting with inappropriate latrining and spraying behavior. METHODS Owners of 18 'spraying' and 23 'latrining' cats with normal control subjects available from the same households were recruited for a case-control study. Otherwise overtly healthy dyads (each dyad consisting of a case cat and a control cat) were brought together to the veterinary hospital of the University of São Paulo for a medical work-up (ie, physical examination, complete blood count, biochemical profile, urinalysis and urine culture, abdominal ultrasound of the urinary system and in females, where possible, cystoscopy). RESULTS Medical problems were identified with similar frequency in the 'sprayers' (38.9%), 'latriners' (39.1%) and controls of the latrining group (26.1%), but not the controls of the spraying group (5.5%). The difference between 'cases' and 'controls' from spraying households was significant. Common potential health-related changes include renal insufficiency, cystitis and bladder lithiasis. Renal calculi, higher creatinine levels (within normal reference interval) and 'glomerulations' (detected during cystoscopy) were also found in the remaining sprayers and latriners that were considered clinically healthy. Post-cystoscopy, a new form of periuria occurred in two cats (one sprayer and one latriner). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE These results indicate that spraying or latrining behavior in the home, as well as living with a cat that is not using the litter box as a latrine, are all associated with a higher level of urinary tract abnormalities; living with a cat that is spraying, however, does not have this association. The findings also suggest that both forms of periuria might be associated with interstitial cystitis. We therefore conclude that all cats with periuria need to be carefully evaluated medically and that treatment of latrine-related problems should consider all cats in the house, whereas spraying may be more focused on the individual displaying the problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Ramos
- PSICOVET Canine and Feline Behaviour and Welfare Centre, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Medical Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Archivaldo Reche-Junior
- Department of Medical Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daniel S Mills
- Animal Behaviour, Cognition and Welfare Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, UK
| | - Priscila L Fragoso
- Department of Medical Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alexandre GT Daniel
- Department of Medical Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana F Freitas
- Department of Medical Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Silvia G Cortopassi
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Geni Patricio
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Brazil
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Finka LR, Ward J, Farnworth MJ, Mills DS. Owner personality and the wellbeing of their cats share parallels with the parent-child relationship. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0211862. [PMID: 30721257 PMCID: PMC6363285 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0211862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Human personality may substantially affect the nature of care provided to dependants. This link has been well researched in parents and children, however, relatively little is known about this dynamic with regards to humans’ relationships with non-human animals. Owner interactions with companion animals may provide valuable insight into the wider phenomenon of familial interactions, as owners usually adopt the role of primary caregiver and potentially surrogate parent. This study, using cats as an exemplar, explored the relationship between owner personality and the lifestyles to which cats are exposed. In addition, it explored owner personality as it related to reported cat behaviour and wellbeing. Cat owners (n = 3331) responded to an online survey examining their personality and the health, behaviour and management of their cats. Owner personality was measured using the Big Five Inventory (BFI) to assess: Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, Extroversion, Neuroticism and Openness. Owners also provided information concerning the physical health, breed type, management and behavioural styles of their cats. Generalised linear mixed models were used to identify relationships between owner personality and a range of factors that may have welfare implications for the wider companion animal population, and specifically, cats. Higher owner Neuroticism was associated with an increased likelihood of non-pedigree rather than pedigree cat ownership, a decreased likelihood of ad libitum access to the outdoors, cats being reported as having a ‘behavioural problem’, displaying more aggressive and anxious/fearful behavioural styles and more stress-related sickness behaviours, as well as having an ongoing medical condition and being overweight. Other owner personality traits were generally found to correlate more positively with various lifestyle, behaviour and welfare parameters. For example, higher owner Extroversion was associated with an increased likelihood that the cat would be provided ad libitum access to the outdoors; higher owner Agreeableness was associated with a higher level of owner reported satisfaction with their cat, and with a greater likelihood of owners reporting their cats as being of a normal weight. Finally higher owner Conscientiousness was associated with the cat displaying less anxious/fearful, aggressive, aloof/avoidant, but more gregarious behavioural styles. These findings demonstrate that the relationship between carer personality and the care received by a dependent, may extend beyond the human family to animal-owner relationships, with significant implications for the choice of management, behaviour and potentially the broader wellbeing of companion animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren R. Finka
- College of Life Sciences, Joseph Bank Laboratories, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
- Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Brackenhurst Campus, Southwell, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Joanna Ward
- College of Life Sciences, Joseph Bank Laboratories, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
| | - Mark J. Farnworth
- Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Brackenhurst Campus, Southwell, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel S. Mills
- College of Life Sciences, Joseph Bank Laboratories, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
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