Stress, Anxiety, Coping & Welfare

Question 1

True or False:

It is fairly common for a cat to develop a phobia to something like a thunderstorm.

Answer 1

False. Cats do not develop phobias like dogs.

Question 2

Which of the following are good ways to help prevent stress in cat’s life:

1. Mental Stimulation.
2. Physical Stimulation.
3. Changing around the furniture in your house.
4. Regularly clean out the litter box.
5. Petting by humans.

Answer 2

Mental stimulation, physical stimulation, regularly cleaning out the litter box, and petting by humans.

Question 3

You are concerned that your cat is stressed. What are some common physical signs that would indicate that your cat is indeed stressed?

1. Head held low.
2. Ears directed forward.
3. Walking around with its body crouched.
4. Tail curled upwards
5. Dilated pupils.

Answer 3

Head held low, walking around with its body crouched, and dilated pupils.

Question 4

Preventing fears and anxieties begins early in the life of the feline. At what period of its life is it essential that a kitten have constant positive exposure to a variety of stimuli?

Answer 4

3-9 weeks.

Question 5

True or False:

Cats have a good tolerance for unpredictability in the schedule and home life.

Answer 5

False. Cats need predictability.

Question 6

True or False:
Cats do not become stressed if they are fed at different times each day. As long as they are fed a sufficient quantity of food they are fine.

Answer 6

False.

Question 7

True or False:

Petting a cat will decrease stress because it increases the social interaction that many cats need.

Answer 7

True.