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Pyott ML, Norris DR, Mitchell GW, Custode L, Gow EA. Home range size and habitat selection of owned outdoor domestic cats ( Felis catus) in urban southwestern Ontario. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17159. [PMID: 38562997 PMCID: PMC10984174 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Domestic cats (Felis catus) play a dual role in society as both companion animals and predators. When provided with unsupervised outdoor access, cats can negatively impact native wildlife and create public health and animal welfare challenges. The effective implementation of management strategies, such as buffer zones or curfews, requires an understanding of home range size, the factors that influence their movement, and the types of habitats they use. Here, we used a community/citizen scientist approach to collect movement and habitat use data using GPS collars on owned outdoor cats in the Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge-Guelph region, southwestern Ontario, Canada. Mean (± SD) 100% minimum convex polygon home range size was 8 ± 8 ha (range: 0.34-38 ha) and was positively associated with road density but not with intrinsic factors such as boldness, sex, or age. With regards to habitat selection, cats used greenspaces, roads, and agricultural land less often than predicted but strongly selected for impervious surfaces (urban areas other than greenspaces or roads). Our results suggest that wildlife near buildings and residential areas are likely at the greatest risk of cat predation and that a buffer size of 840 m would be needed to restrict cats from entering areas of conservation concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlee L. Pyott
- Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - D. Ryan Norris
- Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Greg W. Mitchell
- Department of Integrative Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Wildlife Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Leonardo Custode
- Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elizabeth A. Gow
- Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
- Wildlife Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Pacific Wildlife Research Centre, Delta, British Columbia, Canada
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2
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Urrutia A, Bánszegi O, Szenczi P, Hudson R. Development of "personality" in the domestic cat: A longitudinal study. Dev Psychobiol 2023; 65:e22427. [PMID: 37860897 DOI: 10.1002/dev.22427] [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] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Although individual differences in the behavior of animals, sometimes referred to as personality, have recently received considerable attention, the development of such differences remains understudied. We previously found consistent individual differences in behavior in four tests simulating everyday contexts in 74 preweaning age kittens from 16 litters of the domestic cat. To study the development of consistent among-individual differences in four behavioral traits in cats, we followed a subset of these same individuals and repeated the same tests at 6 and 12 months of age. Some individual differences in behavior became increasingly repeatable with age due to a combination of decreased individual-level variance (canalization) and increased among-individual variance; these changes in variance and repeatability continued into adulthood (12 months). We did not observe behavioral syndromes at any age, in contrast to our previous reports in a different population of adult cats. The mechanisms that underlie increased repeatability with age and the possibility of personality structure differing between populations in this species remain to be studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Urrutia
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Unidad de Posgrado, Edificio A, 1er Piso, Circuito de Posgrados, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacán, Mexico City, Mexico
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Oxána Bánszegi
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Péter Szenczi
- CONACYT-Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Unidad Psicopatología y Desarrollo, Ciudad, de México, Mexico
| | - Robyn Hudson
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
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3
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Cordonnier M, Perrot A, Ferry N, Bonnaud E, Baudry E. Pet cat personality linked to owner-reported predation frequency. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e9651. [PMID: 36713484 PMCID: PMC9873523 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.9651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The domestic cat, Felis catus, is one of the most popular and widespread domestic animals. Because domestic cats can reach high population densities and retain at least some tendency to hunt, their overall impact on wildlife can be severe. Domestic cats have highly variable predation rates depending on the availability of prey in their environment, their owners' practices, and individual cat characteristics. Among these characteristics, cat personality has recently been hypothesized to be an important factor contributing to variations in the hunting activity of cats. In this study, we surveyed 2508 cat owners living in France about their cats' personalities, using the Feline Five personality framework, and the frequency with which cats bring home prey. Personality traits were analyzed using factor analysis and related to predation frequency using cumulative logit models. For both birds and small mammals, cats with high levels of extraversion or low levels of neuroticism had significantly higher frequencies of prey return. Owners whose cats had low levels of agreeableness or high levels of dominance reported a significantly lower frequency of bird return. Personality differences therefore seem to contribute to the high variability in predation rates among domestic cats. We also found that the owner-reported prey return frequencies were significantly higher for cats spending more time outdoors, for non-pedigree cats, and for owners living in rural or suburban areas as opposed to urban areas. By contrast, we did not detect an effect of cat sex or age on their reported prey return rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Cordonnier
- CNRS, AgroParisTech, Ecologie Systématique Evolution, Université Paris‐SaclayOrsayFrance,Lehrstuhl für Zoologie/Evolutionsbiologie, University of RegensburgRegensburgGermany
| | - Amira Perrot
- CNRS, AgroParisTech, Ecologie Systématique Evolution, Université Paris‐SaclayOrsayFrance
| | | | - Elsa Bonnaud
- CNRS, AgroParisTech, Ecologie Systématique Evolution, Université Paris‐SaclayOrsayFrance
| | - Emmanuelle Baudry
- CNRS, AgroParisTech, Ecologie Systématique Evolution, Université Paris‐SaclayOrsayFrance
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4
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Gibert RG, Maag DW, Sanders LN, Clark RW. Investigating personality in vipers: individual rattlesnakes exhibit consistent behavioral responses in defensive and exploratory contexts. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s00265-022-03239-w] [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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5
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Owner-ascribed personality profiles distinguish domestic cats that capture and bring home wild animal prey. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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6
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Jack S, Carroll GA. The Effect of Baby Schema in Cats on Length of Stay in an Irish Animal Shelter. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12111461. [PMID: 35681925 PMCID: PMC9179851 DOI: 10.3390/ani12111461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Several factors may influence cats’ length of stay (LoS) within the shelter environment. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential influence that ‘cuteness’ has on cats’ length of stay (LoS) in an animal shelter. Other factors such as paired-homing requirements, adoption profile (advertisements to encourage the adoption of a specific animal) wording, coat colour, sex and age were also explored. ‘Cuteness’ was measured in two ways; 1. Facial characteristics which characterise human infants, such as big eyes and a round head, were measured from images of cats to create an objective cuteness score. 2. Subjective cuteness scores were developed by participants rating the ‘cuteness’ of the cat images from ‘1-Not very cute’ to ‘5-Extremely cute’ through two online surveys; survey 1 investigated the cats’ social nature as well as cuteness while the second only looked at cuteness. The subjective cuteness scores were used to validate the objective cuteness scores. The analysis found that subjective cuteness influenced cats’ length of stay during the analysis of the first survey with no effect of other variables such as adoption profile language, homing requirements, coat colour, sex and age. Analysis of the data from the second survey found that none of the variables influenced the cats’ LoS. A novel objective measurement for cuteness in cats was developed which reflects the shape of the eyes and is associated with subjective cuteness scores. This research looks to understand factors that influence LoS to help identify potential methods to reduce time spent in shelters and improve the welfare of cats within these environments. Abstract Several factors may influence cats’ length of stay (LoS) within the shelter environment. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential influence that baby schema (characteristic facial features of infants, related to perceived ‘cuteness’) has on cats’ length of stay (LoS) in an animal shelter. Other factors such as paired-homing requirements, adoption profile (adverts to encourage the adoption of a specific animal) wording, coat colour, sex and age were also explored. Objective ‘cuteness’ scores were created by measuring specific facial features of 165 shelter cats. Several proportions of the cats’ faces were explored to identify the best objective measure of cuteness, including elements which have been found to associate with cuteness in cats and humans and new exploratory eye measurements. Subjective cuteness scores were developed by participants rating the ‘cuteness’ of the cat from ‘1-Not very cute’ to ‘5-Extremely cute’ through two online surveys; survey 1 investigated the cats’ social nature as well as cuteness while the second only looked at cuteness. The subjective cuteness scores were used to validate the objective cuteness scores. The analysis found that subjective cuteness in survey 1 was the only variable of influence on LoS. A novel objective cuteness measurement was developed which reflects the eye shape associated with subjective cuteness scores. The current study found that cuteness may not be as influential on cats’ LoS in shelters as hypothesised. This research looks to understand factors which influence LoS to help identify potential methods to reduce time spent in shelters and improve the welfare of cats within these environments.
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7
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Urrutia A, Bánszegi O, Szenczi P, Hudson R. Emergence of personality in weaning‐age kittens of the domestic cat? Dev Psychobiol 2022; 64:e22281. [DOI: 10.1002/dev.22281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Urrutia
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas Unidad de Posgrado, Edificio A, 1er Piso, Circuito de Posgrados, Ciudad Universitaria Mexico City Mexico
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Mexico City Mexico
| | - Oxána Bánszegi
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Mexico City Mexico
| | - Péter Szenczi
- CONACYT ‐ Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz Unidad Psicopatología y Desarrollo Mexico City Mexico
| | - Robyn Hudson
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Mexico City Mexico
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9
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Turner DC. Unanswered Questions and Hypotheses about Domestic Cat Behavior, Ecology, and the Cat-Human Relationship. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11102823. [PMID: 34679844 PMCID: PMC8532687 DOI: 10.3390/ani11102823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Over the last three and a half decades, many studies have been published about cat behavior and cat–human interactions (many by the author and his former team of assistants and university students); these have been summarized in recent review articles. Although we have learned much about domestic cats and their relationships with people, there are still many unanswered questions of interest to scientists and the lay public. The author has briefly referred to the past results and formulated the unanswered questions (some as hypotheses), even suggesting possible ways to answer or test them. Although the author is now retired, his intent is to encourage young researchers beginning their academic careers to take up the torch and work on this fascinating companion animal species. Abstract After recent publication of several reviews covering research results from the last 35 years of domestic cat studies, a number of important unanswered questions and hypotheses have arisen that could interest active researchers, especially those beginning their academic careers. Some sections of this paper concern methodologies that have yielded new insights and could provide more in the future; other sections concern findings and interpretations of those that need further testing. First, hypotheses arise from combining subjective (or psychological) assessments of cat and human personality traits and observational (ethological) studies of cat–human interactions: e.g., do owners with high attachment to their cats interact differently with them than owners with low attachment levels? New analytical methods of dyadic interaction observations open the door for testing further hypotheses. In particular, the Theme® (Noldus bv, NL) program could be used to determine if there are differences between cat breeds in interaction patterns with people, which is not only of interest to owners but also therapists employing cats in their practices. Cat breed differences have been found using subjective ratings, but these need to be corroborated by direct observational data from the home setting and/or non-invasive colony observations, since ratings based on anthropomorphic projections might not be reliable. This should be done before searching for the genetic basis of such differences. Reliable information on breed differences is also needed before prescribing certain breeds for animal-assisted interventions. A model has predicted that the degree of socialization as a kitten affects cats’ responses to positive and negative experiences with unfamiliar humans and their formation of feline–human relationships later on. This needs to be tested in an ethically approved manner on cats of known socialization status and has enormous consequences for cat adoptions from animal shelters. Observations of human–cat interactions have yielded many correlations, which can be tested by non-invasive manipulations of human behavior in the home setting. Examples of these will be given and are of general interest to the cat-owning public. A review of first findings on social cognition in cats has resulted in further unanswered questions and hypotheses. Finally, two aspects of domestic cat ecology will be considered (effects on wildlife and space utilization), which are of great interest to the public and conservationists alike.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis C Turner
- Institute for Applied Ethology and Animal Psychology, I.E.A.P./I.E.T., 8810 Horgen, ZH, Switzerland
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10
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Gajdoš Kmecová N, Pet'ková B, Kottferová J, Wannell RS, Mills DS. Potential Risk Factors for Aggression and Playfulness in Cats: Examination of a Pooling Fallacy Using Fe-BARQ as an Example. Front Vet Sci 2021; 7:545326. [PMID: 33469553 PMCID: PMC7813754 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.545326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Using a popular method of behaviour evaluation which rates the intensity of behaviour in different contexts, we demonstrate how pooling item scores relating to a given construct can reveal different potential risk factors for the dependent variable depending on how the total score is constructed. We highlight how similar simple total scores can be constructed through very different combinations of constituent items. We argue for the importance of examining individual item score distributions, and the results from different intensity thresholds before deciding on the preferred method for calculating a meaningful dependent variable. We consider simply pooling individual item scores which conflate context with intensity to calculate an average score and assuming this represents a biologically meaningful measure of trait intensity is a fallacy. Specifically using four items that describe intercat aggression and eleven that describe playfulness in cats in Fe-BARQ, we found sex and neuter status, social play and fearfulness were consistently significant predictors for intercat aggression scores; and age, age when obtained, social play and fearfulness were significant predictors of playfulness scores. However, the significance of other factors such as scratching varied with the threshold used to calculate to the total score. We argue that some of these inconsistent variables may be biologically and clinically important and should not be considered random error. Instead they need to be evaluated in the context of other available evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noema Gajdoš Kmecová
- Department of Public Veterinary Medicine and Animal Welfare, Workplace of Applied Ethology and Professional Ethics, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia.,Animal Behaviour, Cognition and Welfare Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
| | - Barbara Pet'ková
- Department of Public Veterinary Medicine and Animal Welfare, Workplace of Applied Ethology and Professional Ethics, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Jana Kottferová
- Department of Public Veterinary Medicine and Animal Welfare, Workplace of Applied Ethology and Professional Ethics, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Rachel Sarah Wannell
- Department of Public Veterinary Medicine and Animal Welfare, Workplace of Applied Ethology and Professional Ethics, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Daniel Simon Mills
- Animal Behaviour, Cognition and Welfare Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
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11
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Cecchetti M, Crowley SL, McDonald RA. Drivers and facilitators of hunting behaviour in domestic cats and options for management. Mamm Rev 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/mam.12230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Cecchetti
- Environment and Sustainability Institute University of Exeter Penryn Campus Penryn TR10 9FE UK
| | - Sarah L. Crowley
- Environment and Sustainability Institute University of Exeter Penryn Campus Penryn TR10 9FE UK
| | - Robbie A. McDonald
- Environment and Sustainability Institute University of Exeter Penryn Campus Penryn TR10 9FE UK
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12
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Vojtkovská V, Voslářová E, Večerek V. Methods of Assessment of the Welfare of Shelter Cats: A Review. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10091527. [PMID: 32872242 PMCID: PMC7552334 DOI: 10.3390/ani10091527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
At any moment, there are millions of cats housed in foster care facilities for abandoned and stray animals for various reasons worldwide. Care, management and regulation among these facilities differ. Moreover, shelters can never substitute the full comfort of a good home for the animal, and the welfare of cats in shelters is a subject of discussion in many respects. Cats are animals sensitive to changes; for most of them, placement in a shelter is a stressful experience because of changes in routine, environment and the presence of other animals. Stress is reflected in changes in behaviour, causes fluctuations in physiological values and disrupts the immune system, which is a predisposition to the development or reactivation of disease. Evaluation of the presence and intensity of negative impacts is possible through the use of evaluation tools based on indicators that help set the environment and management of keeping so as to disrupt the quality of life as little as possible. Although a comprehensive and valid welfare tool that would evaluate animal-based and at the same time resource-based (or management-based) indicators of cats in shelters is not currently available, it is possible to use partial evaluation of individual welfare indicators to assess welfare. This review aims to provide the readers with an insight into current options of assessment of the welfare of cats in shelters with an emphasis on behavioural, physiological and health indicators with an application in both practical and scientific contexts.
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13
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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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Martínez-Byer S, Urrutia A, Szenczi P, Hudson R, Bánszegi O. Evidence for Individual Differences in Behaviour and for Behavioural Syndromes in Adult Shelter Cats. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10060962. [PMID: 32492877 PMCID: PMC7341514 DOI: 10.3390/ani10060962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary An important activity of modern animal shelters is the development of successful adoption programmes. In this regard, there is a need for reliable tests of individual differences in behaviour to help match the “personality” of potential adoptees with the lifestyle and needs of prospective owners; a companion animal for an elderly person remaining at home requires a different match than a pet for someone who will be away most of the day; a pet kept exclusively indoors in a small apartment requires a different match than an indoor/outdoor pet. In the present study, we repeatedly tested 31 mixed-breed adult cats of both sexes and a wide range of ages in five behavioural tests at a shelter in Mexico City, Mexico. The tests were designed to be easily implemented by shelter staff, and were short and low cost and intended to simulate common situations in a pet cat’s everyday life. We found consistent (stable) individual differences in the cats’ behaviour on all five tests, as well as correlations between their behaviour across tests. This suggests that such tests may contribute to reliably characterizing the “personality” of individual cats and so help increase the rate of successful adoptions. Abstract Consistent inter-individual differences in behaviour have been previously reported in adult shelter cats. In this study, we aimed to assess whether repeatable individual differences in behaviours exhibited by shelter cats in different situations were interrelated, forming behavioural syndromes. We tested 31 adult cats in five different behavioural tests, repeated three times each: a struggle test where an experimenter restrained the cat, a separation/confinement test where the cat spent 2 min in a pet carrier, a mouse test where the cat was presented with a live mouse in a jar, and two tests where the cat reacted to an unfamiliar human who remained either passive or actively approached the cat. Individual differences in behaviour were consistent (repeatable) across repeated trials for each of the tests. We also found associations between some of the behaviours shown in the different tests, several of which appeared to be due to differences in human-oriented behaviours. This study is the first to assess the presence of behavioural syndromes using repeated behavioural tests in different situations common in the daily life of a cat, and which may prove useful in improving the match between prospective owner and cat in shelter adoption programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Martínez-Byer
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Unidad de Posgrado, Edificio A, 1er Piso, Circuito de Posgrados, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacán, CP 04510, Mexico; (S.M.-B.); (A.U.)
| | - Andrea Urrutia
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Unidad de Posgrado, Edificio A, 1er Piso, Circuito de Posgrados, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacán, CP 04510, Mexico; (S.M.-B.); (A.U.)
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, A.P. 70228, CP 04510, Mexico;
| | - Péter Szenczi
- CONACYT—Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Unidad Psicopatología y Desarrollo, Calz. México-Xochimilco 101, CP 14370, Mexico
- Correspondence: (P.S.); (O.B.); Tel.: + 52-56-22-38-28 (P.S.); + 52-56-22-38-28 (O.B.)
| | - Robyn Hudson
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, A.P. 70228, CP 04510, Mexico;
| | - Oxána Bánszegi
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, A.P. 70228, CP 04510, Mexico;
- Correspondence: (P.S.); (O.B.); Tel.: + 52-56-22-38-28 (P.S.); + 52-56-22-38-28 (O.B.)
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15
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Are cats less stressed in homes than in shelters? A study of personality and faecal cortisol metabolites. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2019.104919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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16
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Hausberger M, Stomp M, Sankey C, Brajon S, Lunel C, Henry S. Mutual interactions between cognition and welfare: The horse as an animal model. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 107:540-559. [PMID: 31491471 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 08/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Research in cognitive psychology has repeatedly shown how much cognition and emotions are mutually related to one another. Psychological disorders are associated with cognitive (attention, memory and judgment) biases and chronic pain may affect attention, learning or memory. Laboratory studies have provided useful insights about the processes involved but observations about spontaneous animal models, living in different stress/welfare conditions may help understand further how cognition and welfare are interrelated in the « real world ». Domestic horses constitute such a model as they live in a variety of conditions that impact differently their welfare state. In the present review, we try and provide an overview of the scientific literature on cognition and welfare of domestic horses and their interrelationship. We address how emotions and welfare may affect cognitive processes in horses and impact the way they perceive their environment (including work). We propose new methods for assessing the relationship between welfare and cognition and open up the discussion on the evolution of the brain and the part domestication may have played.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Hausberger
- CNRS, Laboratoire d'Ethologie animale et humaine, UMR6552, Université de Rennes, Université de Caen-Normandie, Campus de Beaulieu, Avenue du Général Leclerc, 35042 Rennes Cedex, France.
| | - M Stomp
- Université de Rennes, Laboratoire d'Ethologie animale et humaine, UMR 6552, CNRS, Université de Caen-Normandie, Station Biologique, 35380 Paimpont, France
| | - C Sankey
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Institut de Psychologie, Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé (EA 4057), France
| | - S Brajon
- Université Laval, Départment des Sciences Animales, Ville de Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - C Lunel
- IGEPP, Agrocampus Ouest, INRA, Université de Rennes, Université Bretagne-Loire, Rennes, France
| | - S Henry
- Université de Rennes, Laboratoire d'Ethologie animale et humaine, UMR 6552, CNRS, Université de Caen-Normandie, Station Biologique, 35380 Paimpont, France
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Modified Meet your Match® Feline-alityTM validity assessment: An exploratory factor analysis of a sample of domestic cats in a Brazilian shelter. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2019.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Abstract
Practical relevance: Cats are descended from a solitary, territorial ancestor, and while domestication has reduced their inherited tendency to be antagonistic towards all animals larger than their typical prey, they still place more reliance on the security of their territory than on psychological attachments to people or other cats, the exact opposite to dogs. Many feline problem behaviours stem from perceived threats to this security, often due to conflicts with other cats. Others are more developmental in origin, often caused by inadequate exposure to crucial stimuli, especially people, during the socialisation period. Strongly aversive events experienced at any age can also contribute. A third category comprises normal behaviour that owners deem unacceptable, such as scratching of furniture. Evidence base: This review identifies three areas in which basic research is inadequate to support widely employed concepts and practices in feline behavioural medicine. First, classification of cats' problem behaviours relies heavily on approaches derived from studies of their behavioural ecology and, to some extent, extrapolation from canine studies. Few studies have focused on cats in the home, the environment in which most behavioural disorders are expressed. Secondly, cats' chemical senses (olfactory and vomeronasal) are far more sensitive than our own, making it difficult for owners or clinicians to fully comprehend the sensory information upon which they base their behaviour. Thirdly, although the concept of psychological distress is widely invoked as an intervening variable in behavioural disorders, there are still no reliable measures of distress for pet cats in the home. Global importance: Psychological distress of some kind is the primary cause of many of the behavioural problems presented to clinicians, but surveys indicate that many more cats display the same clinical signs without their owners ever seeking help. The welfare of this 'invisible' group could be improved by veterinarians taking a more proactive approach to educating their clients about the behavioural needs of pet cats.
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My Dog Is Not My Cat: Owner Perception of the Personalities of Dogs and Cats Living in the Same Household. Animals (Basel) 2018; 8:ani8060080. [PMID: 29882930 PMCID: PMC6025356 DOI: 10.3390/ani8060080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary A growing number of dogs and cats live together, sharing both a common home and common owner. Nevertheless, how do owners of both cats and dogs living in the same household perceive their pets’ personalities? We tried to answer this question by using a questionnaire targeted at people who owned both dogs and cats. Sociability, protectiveness, reactivity, neuroticism, and fearfulness were the traits that emerged and that diversified themselves according to species. Moreover, intrinsic animal factors, such as age and gender, demographic characteristics of the owner, and environmental context seem to modulate the perceived personality traits in a species-specific way. As personality might influence pets’ welfare and adaptability to the home environment, owners of multiple pets should know and take into consideration both common and differential aspects of their pet’s personality to optimise cohabitation among dogs and cats. Abstract This study aims to define the personality traits perceived by the owners of multiple pets and to evaluate how they are modulated by experiential-environmental factors. A questionnaire was administered to 1270 owners of multiple pets (dogs and cats) to collect data on the demographics, management, and personality of their pets. Data were analysed by principal component analysis, bivariate, and multivariable models. Five personality traits emerged in dogs and cats: sociability, reactivity, protectiveness, neuroticism, and fearfulness. The owners perceived differences in the personality of their pet: dogs scored higher in sociability, protectiveness, and reactivity, while lower in the neuroticism dimension compared with cats (p < 0.001). Age similarly affected sociability (p < 0.01), and reactivity (p < 0.001) in both dogs and cats, while species-specific gender differences were found as to fearfulness (p < 0.05) and neuroticism (p < 0.001). The age of acquisition modulated several traits in dog personality, while living with conspecifics especially influenced cats. Physiological, behavioural, and evolutionary characteristics could explain species differences. Moreover, intrinsic and extrinsic factors modulated the five dimensions of dogs and cats in a diversified fashion, suggesting complex interactions between species and the environment. However, owners could have had different attitudes with their animals which could have influenced personality perception.
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Coutant T, Bagur S, Gilbert C. Development of an observational quantitative temperament test in three common parrot species. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2018.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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22
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Kasimanickam VR, Abdel Aziz RL, Williams HM, Kasimanickam RK. Predictors of beef calf temperament at weaning and its impact on temperament at breeding and reproductive performance. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 53:484-494. [PMID: 29352501 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Two experiments were conducted to determine (i) factors influencing calf temperament at weaning, (ii) association between heifer-calf temperament at weaning and temperament at breeding and (iii) effect of heifer-calf temperament on pregnancy rate per artificial insemination (P/AI). In experiment 1, beef cows and their calves (n = 285) from three farms were used. Sire docility estimated progeny difference (EPD) score, birth type (normal or assisted), calf gender, calf behaviour (during 1st 4 weeks) and calf health status (until weaning) were recorded. Cows and calves were assigned a temperament score (0-calm; 1-excitable), and all cows were given a body condition score (BCS, 1-9; 1-emaciated; 9-obese) at weaning. Calf's illness (p < .05), low sire docility EPD score (p < .05), altered gait (p < .05), altered resting behaviour (p < .01), reduced/no play behaviour (p < .05) and cow excitable temperament (p < .001) increased calf excitable temperament at weaning. In experiment 2, replacement heifer-calves (n = 758) from 12 farms were assigned a temperament score at weaning and later at breeding. Blood from 40 calves at weaning and 31 heifers at initiation of synchronization (same animals) was collected by coccygeal venipuncture for determination of circulating cortisol and substance P concentrations. Heifers were assigned a BCS and reproductive tract score (RTS, 1-5; 1-immature, acyclic; 5-mature, cyclic), synchronized for fixed time AI, observed for oestrus and were artificially inseminated. Cortisol concentrations were increased in excitable heifer-calves compared to calm heifer-calves at weaning (p < .05), and substance P was increased in excitable compared to calm females both at weaning and breeding (p < .05). Low sire EPD docility score (p < .01), heifer-calf excitable temperament at weaning increased excitable temperament at breeding (p < .01). Controlling for BCS categories (p < .01), oestrous expression (p < .0001) and temperament at breeding by oestrous expression (p < .05), the calf's excitable temperament at weaning (p < .001) reduced P/AI (Calm, 62.7 (244/389) vs. Excitable, 53.4% (197/369); p < .01). In conclusion, selection of docile cows and sires with greater docility EPD score should be given consideration to reduce calf excitement. Temperament in beef female can be detected earlier in their life and could be used as a tool in the selection process and to improve their performances.
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Affiliation(s)
- V R Kasimanickam
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - R L Abdel Aziz
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.,Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - H M Williams
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - R K Kasimanickam
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
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Litchfield CA, Quinton G, Tindle H, Chiera B, Kikillus KH, Roetman P. The 'Feline Five': An exploration of personality in pet cats (Felis catus). PLoS One 2017; 12:e0183455. [PMID: 28832622 PMCID: PMC5568325 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0183455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2016] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The idea of animals possessing personalities was once dismissed by the scientific community, but has since gained traction with evidence for potential application to improve captive animal management and welfare. Although domestic cats are popular companion animals, research has tended to overlook the value of personality assessment for management and care of pet cats. The aim of this study was to investigate personality in a large sample of pet cats with a view to understanding practical implications for pet cats in the home. Personality of 2,802 pet cats, from South Australia and New Zealand, was rated by their owners utilising a survey measuring 52 personality traits. Five reliable personality factors were found using principal axis factor analysis: Neuroticism, Extraversion, Dominance, Impulsiveness and Agreeableness. Implications for the 'Feline Five' are discussed in relation to their potential application to improving the management and welfare of pet cats. Highly Impulsive cats for example, may be reacting to something stressful in their environment, whereas cats with low Agreeableness scores, showing irritability may indicate underlying pain or illness. Thus, the need for a systematic and holistic approach to personality that includes both the individual pet cat and its environment is recommended, and opens the door to future interdisciplinary intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla A. Litchfield
- Centre for Social Change, School of Psychology, Social Work & Social Policy, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Gillian Quinton
- Centre for Social Change, School of Psychology, Social Work & Social Policy, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Hayley Tindle
- Discovery Circle, School of Natural and Built Environments, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Belinda Chiera
- School of Information Technology and Mathematical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - K. Heidy Kikillus
- Centre for Biodiversity and Restoration Ecology, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Philip Roetman
- Discovery Circle, School of Natural and Built Environments, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Phillips CJ, Tribe A, Lisle A, Galloway TK, Hansen K. Keepers' rating of emotions in captive big cats, and their use in determining responses to different types of enrichment. J Vet Behav 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2017.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Ha D, Ha J. A subjective domestic cat (Felis silvestris catus) temperament assessment results in six independent dimensions. Behav Processes 2017; 141:351-356. [PMID: 28341144 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2017.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2016] [Revised: 03/07/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The study of personality or temperament is well developed in many species, but in domestic cats (Felis silvestris catus) it has lagged behind. We applied one common methodology, subjective surveys, performed by their owners, to investigate the dimensions of cat temperament. To do this, we developed an eighteen question survey covering common behavioral traits of cats, and had the evaluators rank their cat on a seven point Likert scale for trait. The responses were analyzed with factor analysis, and resulted in six significant dimensions of temperament across the 251 surveys. The six dimensions, in order of importance, are: Cat Social, Active, Human Nonsocial, Human Aggressive, and Intense. Supplemental questions were also included in all the surveys, and MANOVA analysis of these showed that outdoor usage, feeding style (ad-lib vs. meal fed), living with other cats, sex, duration of ownership, and previous history as a stray all had effects on at least one of the dimensions of cat temperament. Future work is clearly needed to fully validate our model and to further investigate our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Ha
- Animal Behavior Associates of Washington, PMB# 635, 4320 196th S.W. #B, Lynnwood, WA 98036-6754, USA.
| | - James Ha
- Animal Behavior Associates of Washington, PMB# 635, 4320 196th S.W. #B, Lynnwood, WA 98036-6754, USA; Department of Psychology, University of Washington, PO Box 351525, Seattle, WA 98195-1525, USA.
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Duffy DL, de Moura RTD, Serpell JA. Development and evaluation of the Fe-BARQ: A new survey instrument for measuring behavior in domestic cats (Felis s. catus). Behav Processes 2017; 141:329-341. [PMID: 28232232 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2017.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Revised: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A questionnaire instrument for obtaining quantitative behavioral evaluations of pet cats from cat owners was developed and validated. Exploratory Factor Analysis of 2608 questionnaire responses to 149 behavioral questions/items extracted a total of 23 distinct factors that measured most of the more common dimensions of cat behavior. Seventeen of the 23 factors demonstrated adequate-high internal reliability (Cronbach's alpha=0.712-0.923). Questionnaire validation was accomplished by determining: (a) whether owners' subjective ratings of the severity of their cat's behavior problems were associated with cats' actual scores on expected questionnaire factors, (b) whether expected associations between specific demographic and/or lifestyle characteristics and behavior were confirmed by cats' factor or item scores on the questionnaire, and (c) whether breed rankings based on owner-reported factor scores matched those previously derived from the opinions of experts (veterinarians). The results of these various tests confirmed the overall construct validity of the questionnaire.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah L Duffy
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6010, USA
| | | | - James A Serpell
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6010, USA.
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A review of over three decades of research on cat-human and human-cat interactions and relationships. Behav Processes 2017; 141:297-304. [PMID: 28119016 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2017.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Revised: 01/16/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
This review article covers research conducted over the last three decades on cat-human and human-cat interactions and relationships, especially from an ethological point of view. It includes findings on cat-cat and cat-human communication, cat personalities and cat-owner personalities, the effects of cats on humans, and problems caused by cats.
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Amat M, Camps T, Manteca X. Stress in owned cats: behavioural changes and welfare implications. J Feline Med Surg 2016; 18:577-86. [PMID: 26101238 PMCID: PMC10816390 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x15590867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Domestic cats are exposed to a variety of stressful stimuli, which may have a negative effect on the cats' welfare and trigger a number of behavioural changes. Some of the stressors most commonly encountered by cats include changes in environment, inter-cat conflict, a poor human-cat relationship and the cat's inability to perform highly motivated behaviour patterns. Stress is very likely to reduce feed intake, and stress-related anorexia may contribute to the development of potentially serious medical conditions. Stress also increases the risk of cats showing urine marking and some forms of aggression, including redirected aggression. A number of compulsive disorders such as over-grooming may also develop as a consequence of stressful environments. Some of the main strategies to prevent or reduce stress-related behavioural problems in cats are environmental enrichment, appropriate management techniques to introduce unfamiliar cats to each other and the use of the synthetic analogue of the feline facial pheromone. As the stress response in cats depends, to a large extent, on the temperament of the animal, breeding and husbandry strategies that contribute to the cat developing a well-balanced temperament are also very useful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Amat
- School of Veterinary Science, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tomàs Camps
- School of Veterinary Science, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Manteca
- School of Veterinary Science, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Riemer S, Müller C, Virányi Z, Huber L, Range F. Individual and group level trajectories of behavioural development in Border collies. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2016; 180:78-86. [PMID: 28184101 PMCID: PMC5295634 DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2016.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
In order to assess dogs' personality changes during ontogeny, a cohort of 69 Border collies was followed up from six to 18-24 months. When the dogs were 6, 12, and 18-24 months old, their owners repeatedly filled in a dog personality questionnaire (DPQ), which yielded five personality factors divided into fifteen facets. All five DPQ factors were highly correlated between the three age classes, indicating that the dogs' personality remained consistent relative to other individuals. Nonetheless, at the group level significant changes with age were found for four of the five DPQ factors. Fearfulness, Aggression towards People, Responsiveness to Training and Aggression towards Animals increased with age; only Activity/Excitability did not change significantly over time. These changes in DPQ factor scores occurred mainly between the ages of 6 and 12 months, although some facets changed beyond this age. No sex differences were found for any of the tested factors or facets, suggesting that individual variation in personality was greater than male/female differences. There were significant litter effects for the factors Fearfulness, Aggression towards People and Activity/Excitability, indicating either a strong genetic basis for these traits or a high influence of the shared early environment. To conclude, from the age of six months, consistency in personality relative to other individuals can be observed in Border collies. However, at the group level, increases in fearful and aggressive behaviours occur up to 12 months and for some traits up to two years, highlighting the need for early interventions. Follow-up studies are needed to assess trajectories of personality development prior to six months and after two years, and to include a wider variety of breeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Riemer
- Clever Dog Lab, Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University of Vienna and University of Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria; Department of Cognitive Biology, University of Vienna, Althanstraße 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria; Division of Animal Welfare, VPH Institute, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Längassstrasse 120, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Corsin Müller
- Clever Dog Lab, Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University of Vienna and University of Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria; Department of Cognitive Biology, University of Vienna, Althanstraße 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Zsófia Virányi
- Clever Dog Lab, Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University of Vienna and University of Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Ludwig Huber
- Clever Dog Lab, Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University of Vienna and University of Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Friederike Range
- Clever Dog Lab, Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University of Vienna and University of Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
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Finkler H, Terkel J. The relationship between individual behavioural styles, dominance rank and cortisol levels of cats living in urban social groups. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2015.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Stelow EA, Bain MJ, Kass PH. The Relationship Between Coat Color and Aggressive Behaviors in the Domestic Cat. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2015; 19:1-15. [PMID: 26467020 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2015.1081820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The authors explored a possible relationship between coat color and aggressive behaviors in the domestic cat. This study used an Internet-based survey to collect information on coat color, affiliative behaviors toward cats/humans, agonistic behaviors toward cats/humans, other "problem" behaviors, and cat and guardian demographic data. A total of 1,432 cat guardians completed the online survey; after exclusions based on study protocol, data analysis included 1,274 completed surveys. Guardians reported sex-linked orange female (tortoiseshells, calicos, and "torbies"), black-and-white, and gray-and-white cats to be more frequently aggressive toward humans in 3 settings: during everyday interactions, during handling, and during veterinary visits. Kruskal-Wallis 1-way analysis of variance was used to compare possible differences between the 2 sexes and among different coat colors. Analyses of aggression due to handling, as well as aggression displayed during veterinarian visits, showed little difference among coat colors in these settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Stelow
- a W R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, University of California, Davis
| | - Melissa J Bain
- b Department of Medicine and Epidemiology , University of California, Davis
| | - Philip H Kass
- c Department of Population Health and Reproduction , University of California, Davis
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The effects of social interaction and environmental enrichment on the space use, behaviour and stress of owned housecats facing a novel environment. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2015.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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What's inside your cat's head? A review of cat (Felis silvestris catus) cognition research past, present and future. Anim Cogn 2015; 18:1195-206. [PMID: 26154131 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-015-0897-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2015] [Revised: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/28/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The domestic cat (Felis silvestris catus) has shared an intertwined existence with humans for thousands of years, living on our city streets and in our homes. Yet, little scientific research has focused on the cognition of the domestic cat, especially in comparison with human's other companion, the domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris). This review surveys the current status of several areas of cat cognition research including perception, object permanence, memory, physical causality, quantity and time discrimination, cats' sensitivity to human cues, vocal recognition and communication, attachment bonds, personality, and cognitive health. Although interest in cat cognition is growing, we still have a long way to go until we have an inclusive body of research on the subject. Therefore, this review also identifies areas where future research must be conducted. In addition to the scientific value of future work in this area, future research on cat cognition could have an important influence on the management and welfare of pet and free-roaming cats, leading to improved human-cat interactions.
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Rayment DJ, De Groef B, Peters RA, Marston LC. Applied personality assessment in domestic dogs: Limitations and caveats. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2014.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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The predictive value of early behavioural assessments in pet dogs--a longitudinal study from neonates to adults. PLoS One 2014; 9:e101237. [PMID: 25003341 PMCID: PMC4086890 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0101237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 06/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies on behavioural development in domestic dogs are of relevance for matching puppies with the right families, identifying predispositions for behavioural problems at an early stage, and predicting suitability for service dog work, police or military service. The literature is, however, inconsistent regarding the predictive value of tests performed during the socialisation period. Additionally, some practitioners use tests with neonates to complement later assessments for selecting puppies as working dogs, but these have not been validated. We here present longitudinal data on a cohort of Border collies, followed up from neonate age until adulthood. A neonate test was conducted with 99 Border collie puppies aged 2–10 days to assess activity, vocalisations when isolated and sucking force. At the age of 40–50 days, 134 puppies (including 93 tested as neonates) were tested in a puppy test at their breeders' homes. All dogs were adopted as pet dogs and 50 of them participated in a behavioural test at the age of 1.5 to 2 years with their owners. Linear mixed models found little correspondence between individuals' behaviour in the neonate, puppy and adult test. Exploratory activity was the only behaviour that was significantly correlated between the puppy and the adult test. We conclude that the predictive validity of early tests for predicting specific behavioural traits in adult pet dogs is limited.
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A proposal for assessing individual differences in behaviour during early development in the domestic cat. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2014.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Broadley HM, McCobb EC, Slater MR. Effect of single-cat versus multi-cat home history on perceived behavioral stress in domestic cats (Felis silvestrus catus) in an animal shelter. J Feline Med Surg 2013; 16:137-43. [PMID: 24027054 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x13502972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study investigates the effect of living with other cats in a prior home on stress levels of cats recently surrendered to an animal shelter. A total of 63 cats was evaluated using a Cat-Stress-Score and an approach test. Cats were categorized in terms of previous home history with or without other cats. No significant difference was found in stress scores between cats from single-cat households and those from multiple-cat households, although single cats that had been in the shelter less than 4 days demonstrated higher stress levels. No significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of approach results. Results of this study suggest that, in traditional individual cage settings, cats that are not accustomed to living with other cats may experience more stress in the initial few days of attempting to adjust to shelter existence. Through the use of such assessments, shelter personnel may develop an increased awareness to the needs of these cats and attempt to provide measures to improve their well-being within the shelter environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi M Broadley
- 1Department of Clinical Sciences, Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, North Grafton, MA, USA
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Lockhart J, Wilson K, Lanman C. The effects of operant training on blood collection for domestic cats. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2012.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Dantas LMS, Crowell-Davis SL, Alford K, Genaro G, D'Almeida JM, Paixao RL. Agonistic behavior and environmental enrichment of cats communally housed in a shelter. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2012; 239:796-802. [PMID: 21916762 DOI: 10.2460/javma.239.6.796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the presence of a dominance rank in a group of cats and the relation between agonistic behavior and the use of resources, including environmental enrichment, in these cats. DESIGN Observational analytic study. ANIMALS 27 neutered cats in a shelter in Sao Paulo, Brazil. PROCEDURES The cats were video recorded for 4 consecutive days to obtain baseline data. Subsequently, a puzzle feeder was added as an enrichment device every other day over 8 days, for a total of 4 days with enrichment. Cats were also video recorded on these days. All pretreatment and posttreatment agonistic behaviors and interactions with the puzzle feeder were recorded by reviewing the videotapes. RESULTS 143 agonistic encounters were recorded, of which 44 were related to resources and 99 were not. There were insufficient agonistic interactions to determine a dominance rank. Presence or absence of the puzzle feeder did not affect the rate of aggression. There was no significant effect of weight, sex, or coat color on the rate of aggression, and aggressive behavior did not correlate with time spent with the puzzle feeder. Twenty-three of the 27 cats interacted with the puzzle feeder. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE In a stable group of communally housed cats, environmental enrichment did not cause increased aggression as a result of competition for the source of enrichment. Because environmental enrichment increases the opportunity to perform exploratory behaviors, it may improve the welfare of groups of cats maintained long-term in shelters, sanctuaries, or multicat households.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leticia M S Dantas
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Veterinária (Clinica e Reprodução Animal), College of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niteroi, RJ 24320-340, Brazil.
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Differences between vocalization evoked by social stimuli in feral cats and house cats. Behav Processes 2011; 87:183-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2011.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2010] [Revised: 02/21/2011] [Accepted: 03/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Iki T, Ahrens F, Pasche KH, Bartels A, Erhard MH. Relationships between scores of the feline temperament profile and behavioural and adrenocortical responses to a mild stressor in cats. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2011.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Patterson LD, Schulte-Hostedde AI. Behavioural correlates of parasitism and reproductive success in male eastern chipmunks, Tamias striatus. Anim Behav 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2011.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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Sankey C, Henry S, Górecka-Bruzda A, Richard-Yris MA, Hausberger M. The way to a man's heart is through his stomach: what about horses? PLoS One 2010; 5:e15446. [PMID: 21085576 PMCID: PMC2981555 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0015446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2010] [Accepted: 09/21/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background How do we bond to one another? While in some species, like humans, physical contact plays a role in the process of attachment, it has been suggested that tactile contact's value may greatly differ according to the species considered. Nevertheless, grooming is often considered as a pleasurable experience for domestic animals, even though scientific data is lacking. On another hand, food seems to be involved in the creation of most relationships in a variety of species. Methodology/Principal Findings In this study, we used the horse training context to test the effects of food versus grooming during repeated human-horse interactions. The results reveal that food certainly holds a key role in the attachment process, while tactile contact was here clearly insufficient for bonding to occur. Conclusion/Significance This study raises important questions on the way tactile contact is perceived, and shows that large inter-species differences are to be expected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Sankey
- Ethologie Animale et Humaine, Université Rennes1/UMR-CNRS6552, Station Biologique, Paimpont, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Séverine Henry
- Ethologie Animale et Humaine, Université Rennes1/UMR-CNRS6552, Station Biologique, Paimpont, France
| | - Aleksandra Górecka-Bruzda
- Polish Academy of Sciences, Institute of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Jastrzębiec, Wólka-Kosowska, Poland
| | | | - Martine Hausberger
- Ethologie Animale et Humaine, Université Rennes1/UMR-CNRS6552, Station Biologique, Paimpont, France
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Slater MR, Miller KA, Weiss E, Makolinski KV, Weisbrot LAM. A survey of the methods used in shelter and rescue programs to identify feral and frightened pet cats. J Feline Med Surg 2010; 12:592-600. [PMID: 20460192 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfms.2010.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Despite the lack of validated methods for differentiating feral from frightened socialized cats upon intake to animal welfare agencies, these organizations must make handling and disposition decisions for millions of cats each year based on their presumed socialization status. We conducted a nationwide survey of feline welfare stakeholders to learn about methods used to evaluate and categorize incoming cats, amount of time cats are held before assessment, disposition options available, and the level of cooperation among welfare agencies to minimize euthanasia of ferals. A wide variety of assessment methods were described and only 15% of 555 respondents had written guidelines. Holding periods of 1-3 days were common, and cats deemed feral were often euthanased. About half the shelters transferred ferals to trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs at least occasionally. Results highlight the need for validated assessment methods to facilitate judicious holding and disposition decisions for unowned cats at time of intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret R Slater
- Animal Health Services, ASPCA, 1717 South Philo Road, Urbana, IL 61802, United States.
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Ramos D, Mills DS. Human directed aggression in Brazilian domestic cats: owner reported prevalence, contexts and risk factors. J Feline Med Surg 2009; 11:835-41. [PMID: 19577496 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfms.2009.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/12/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Aggression by cats towards humans is a serious behavioural, welfare and public health problem, although owners may believe it is an inevitable part of cat ownership. There has been little scientific investigation of the risk factors associated with this problem. One hundred and seven owners in the Sao Paulo region of Brazil, took part in a survey aimed at investigating the perceived prevalence of the problem, defining the most common contexts of human directed aggression and identifying associated potential risk factors. Human directed aggression occurred in 49.5% of cats and was most commonly associated with situations involving petting and play, followed by protection of a resource, when startled, when observing an unfamiliar animal and least commonly when unfamiliar people were present. Pedigree status, neuter status, a history of early trauma, sensitivity to being stroked, the absence of other cats in the home, relationship with other animals, level of background activity at home, access to the outside and tendency to be alone (meaning tendency to staying far from the family members) were all associated with an increased risk in one or more context. However, sex, age, age when acquired, source of pet, attachment to a specific household member, type of domestic accommodation, relationship with another cat if present and contact with other animals did not appear to increase the risk. The results suggest sensitivity to being stroked and background levels of stress in the home are the most pervasive risk factors, and future research should aim to investigate these factors further. These data are of relevance when advising owners about the risk and development of this problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Ramos
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Sao Paulo, Av Prof Dr Orlando Marques de Paiva, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Casey RA, Bradshaw JWS. The effects of additional socialisation for kittens in a rescue centre on their behaviour and suitability as a pet. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2008.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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The qualitative assessment of responsiveness to environmental challenge in horses and ponies. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2007.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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