Cat Behavior Flashcards
anthropomorphism
attribution of human characteristics to non-human object
do feral cats live together?
no, may group around common food source
domestication of cats
religious connection, more difficult to control mating
normal play behavior
start playing weeks 4-16, individually and with each other
improves coordination, social interaction
kittens and attachment study
daily handling for 40+ min a day from ages 2 weeks-7 increases attachment behaviors later in life
predation
different from hunger
well-fed cats still hunt
will stop eating if live prey is introduced
eliminative
spraying to mark territory
usually bury feces
scratching
leaves scent
sharpens claws
strengthens muscles
pica
chewing/eating non-nutritional items
plant eating, wool sucking
redirected aggression
sudden attack/aggression out of nowhere
stress release
can be toward another cat or humans
petting induced aggression
cat may be over stimulated
top 4 reported behavior problems
house soiling
pet to pet problems
aggression to humans
destructive behavior
what % of cats surrendered to shelters were due to behavior problems?
28%
common reasons for cat behavioral problems
stress/frustration/boredom
improper socialization
genetic problem
medical problem
general treatment options
client education
environmental modification
behavioral modification
drug therapy
