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Lee SR, Lee KL, Song SH, Joo MD, Lee SH, Kang JS, Kang SM, Idrees M, Kim JW, Kong IK. Generation of Fel d 1 chain 2 genome-edited cats by CRISPR-Cas9 system. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4987. [PMID: 38424152 PMCID: PMC10904870 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55464-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Allergens from domestic cats (Felis catus) cause allergy-related health problems worldwide. Fel d 1 is a major allergen that causes severe allergic reactions in humans, including rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and life-threatening asthma. Therefore, patients with cat allergies anticipate hypoallergenic cats. We successfully generated Fel d 1 chain 2 (CH2) genome-edited cats using the CRISPR-Cas9 system in this study. T7 endonuclease 1 assay and Sanger sequencing were used to confirm the mutation in CH2 genome-edited cats. Fel d 1 level in CH2 genome-edited cats were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Remarkably, ELISA showed that the level of Fel d 1 in the CH2 homozygous genome-edited cat (Name: Alsik) was extremely low compared with that in wild type domestic cats and could be hypoallergenic cats. Additionally, we successfully cloned the CH2 homozygous genome-edited cat using cytoplasm injection clone technology. The cloned CH2 homozygous genome-edited cat was verified using microsatellite analysis. Creating hypoallergenic cats using the CRISPR-Cas9 system is a significant step forward because these cats can safely approach allergic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Ryeul Lee
- Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences Department, College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, 84322, USA
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Kyung-Lim Lee
- TheKingKong Corp. Ltd., Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam Province, 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok-Hwan Song
- TheKingKong Corp. Ltd., Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam Province, 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - Myeong-Don Joo
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam Province, 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo-Hyun Lee
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam Province, 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Su Kang
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam Province, 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - Seon-Min Kang
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam Province, 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - Muhammad Idrees
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam Province, 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Wook Kim
- TheKingKong Corp. Ltd., Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam Province, 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - Il-Keun Kong
- TheKingKong Corp. Ltd., Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam Province, 52828, Republic of Korea.
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam Province, 52828, Republic of Korea.
- Institute of Agriculture and Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam Province, 52828, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Takeda CSY, Luchesi SH, Martins FP, Trindade PHE, Damasceno AAP, de Souza Gomes I, Dos Santos RG, de Souza Monteiro JR, Otta E. Cat behaviour in the secure base test: Comparison between owned and shelter animals. Behav Processes 2024; 215:104989. [PMID: 38224845 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2024.104989] [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: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to compare affiliative behaviours of owned and shelter cats directed to human in a novel environment after a brief temporary absence of the person. A sample of 20 owned and 20 shelter animals were individually tested in a Secure Base Test, with three 2-min episodes: 1) cat accompanied by a person who sits on the floor inside a circle, 2) the person leaves and the animal is left alone, 3) the person returns, and sits inside the circle again. Three categories were used for coding videotapes of experimental sessions: (1) inside circle, (2) allo-rubbing and (3) tail up. Shelter animals showed more proximity maintenance and affiliative signs with a person than owned animals. Our findings suggested similarities between the secure base effect in cats and in human children: cats seek proximity and maintain contact with a person, displaying affiliative signs to the person, especially after being left alone frightened by an unfamiliar environment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Suzana Helena Luchesi
- Departamento de Psicologia Experimental, Instituto de Psicologia (IP), Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Brazil
| | | | - Pedro Henrique Esteves Trindade
- Departamento de Cirurgia Veterinária e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (FMVZ), Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | | | - Igor de Souza Gomes
- Instituto de Saúde e Produção Animal, Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia, Brazil
| | | | | | - Emma Otta
- Departamento de Psicologia Experimental, Instituto de Psicologia (IP), Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Brazil.
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3
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Nielson SA, Khosa DK, Verbrugghe A, Clow KM. Cat caregivers' perceptions, motivations, and behaviours for feeding treats: A cross sectional study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296011. [PMID: 38198455 PMCID: PMC10781132 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
There is an abundance of research focusing on the nutritional needs of the cat, though aspects surrounding treat feeding have received far less attention. Feeding practices have the potential to cause nutrient imbalances and adverse health outcomes, including obesity. The objective of this study was to identify and describe the perceptions, motivations, and behaviours surrounding treats, and factors that influence treat feeding by cat caregivers. A 56-question online survey was disseminated to cat caregivers (n = 337) predominantly from Canada and the USA to collect data regarding caregiver and cat demographics, the pet-caregiver relationship, perceptions surrounding treats, and feeding practices and behaviours. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, Kruskal-Wallis one-way ANOVA, Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, and multivariable logistic regression models were used to analyze the survey data. Caregivers had varying interpretations of the term 'treat' and how treats relate to the primary diet, and these perceptions appeared to influence the quantity of treats provided. Aspects relating to the human-animal bond were highlighted as an important factor in decisions and behaviours surrounding treat feeding in our results. Though the majority (224/337, 66%) of respondents indicated they monitor their pet's treat intake, using an eyeball estimate was the most frequent (139/337, 41%) method reported to measure treats. Multivariable logistic regression results revealed feeding jerky, bones, dental treats, and table scraps in select frequencies were predictive of caregivers perceiving their cat as overweight/obese. Results provide valuable new insights to cat caregiver feeding practices and perceptions of treats and can be used to inform veterinary nutrition support to caregivers. More research is warranted to further our understanding and ensure that cats receive optimal nutrition and care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelby A. Nielson
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Deep K. Khosa
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adronie Verbrugghe
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Katie M. Clow
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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4
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Shu H, Gu X. Effect of a synthetic feline facial pheromone product on stress during transport in domestic cats: a randomised controlled pilot study. J Feline Med Surg 2022; 24:691-699. [PMID: 34493099 PMCID: PMC10812279 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x211041305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Transport can be a stressful experience for domestic cats. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a new synthetic feline facial pheromone product on relieving stress in domestic cats during short-distance transport. METHODS A randomised, blinded, placebo-controlled pilot study was conducted. Prior to baseline screening, cat owners were trained via online meetings in the assessment of stress-related behaviours and overall stress visual analogue scoring. All assessments were completed 30 mins after the start of transport. A total of 150 domestic cats exhibiting stress-related behaviours during baseline screening were recruited and randomly assigned to either the treatment group (n = 75) or the placebo group (n = 75). For the placebo-controlled intervention, the product and placebo, which were identical in appearance, were provided to the treatment and placebo groups, respectively. Fifteen minutes after spraying the carriers with the product or placebo, cat owners were required to take their cat out and complete the same assessments (baseline screening). RESULTS After the intervention, the performance of the stress-related behaviours curling, lack of motion and meowing during transport outside the home was significantly reduced in the treatment group compared with the placebo group (P <0.05). When the baseline stress visual analogue scale (VAS) score was >2.94 cm, cats in the treatment group had significantly lower post-intervention stress VAS scores compared with those in the placebo group (P <0.05). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE A synthetic feline facial pheromone product can alleviate short-distance transport-related stress in domestic cats with higher stress scores. This finding will benefit domestic cats during transport outside of the home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Shu
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agriculture Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xianhong Gu
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agriculture Sciences, Beijing, China
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5
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Do cats and dogs have owners, tutors or guardians? Thoughts about the importance of clarity, functionality and uniformity in scientific writing. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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6
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Menor-Campos DJ, Williams JM, Gazzano A, Mariti C. Student veterinarians’ ability to recognise behavioural signs of stress in dogs. J Vet Behav 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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7
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Bouma EMC, Reijgwart ML, Dijkstra A. Family Member, Best Friend, Child or 'Just' a Pet, Owners' Relationship Perceptions and Consequences for Their Cats. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:193. [PMID: 35010452 PMCID: PMC8750854 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Describing the relationship with one's cat in human terms might reflect an underlying anthropomorphic view of the relationship which might be associated with an owner's behavior towards their cat and the cat's living environment. Owners self-categorized the relationship with their cat as either a 'member of the family', 'as a child', 'best friend', or 'a pet animal'. The extent to which owner- and cat-related factors influence these four relationship descriptions are examined in survey data of approximately 1800 cat owners. Differences in outdoor access, care during absence of the owner, and access to the bedroom are examined between the four relationship perceptions. The owner's age and household composition, ideas about their cat's equality, support, and dependency, and whether their cat is a pedigree were significantly associated with relationship description and explained 46% of the variance. Owners who perceive their cat as a child or best friend see their cat as loyal, empathetic, equal to family, and dependent on them for love and care. Their cats are less often left in the care of others, are allowed more often in the bedroom and have less often (unrestricted) outdoor access. Moreover, cats perceived as children are more likely to live in a multi-cat household. Our results provide insight in the factors that are related to different (anthropomorphic) perceptions of the human-cat relationship and how perceptions relate to the living environment of cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther M. C. Bouma
- Department of Social Psychology, University of Groningen, 9712 TS Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | | | - Arie Dijkstra
- Department of Social Psychology, University of Groningen, 9712 TS Groningen, The Netherlands;
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Solhjoo N, Krtalic M, Goulding A. Pets and people: information experience of multispecies families. JOURNAL OF DOCUMENTATION 2021. [DOI: 10.1108/jd-03-2021-0052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PurposeThis paper introduces more-than-human perspective in information behaviour and information experience studies. The purpose of this paper is to contribute to understandings of the concept of multispecies families by exploring their significant dimensions related to information phenomena involving multiple contexts, situations, spaces, actors, species, and activities.Design/methodology/approachBased on previous research in human information behaviour and human-animal studies, our ideas around information experience of multispecies families are developed conceptually. The paper builds both on previous empirical findings about human information behaviour and the new domain of information experience.FindingsThe paper proposes a holistic approach both to information phenomena in everyday living with companion animals including embodied, affective, cognitive, social, digital, and objectual information that shapes pet care and management practices, and to the context of study, including work, domestic, and leisure aspects of multispecies family.Originality/valueThis study broadens our understanding of information phenomena in multispecies families, and so contributes to the field of information experience. It also provides insights for animal welfare scientists to help them understand the information behaviour of humans who are responsible for keeping and caring for animals.
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9
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Shajid Pyari M, Uccheddu S, Lenkei R, Pongrácz P. Inexperienced but still interested – Indoor-only cats are more inclined for predatory play than cats with outdoor access. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2021.105373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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10
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Turner DC. The Mechanics of Social Interactions Between Cats and Their Owners. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:650143. [PMID: 33869324 PMCID: PMC8044293 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.650143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
This is a mini review that summarizes what is known from quantitative observational studies of social interactions between domestic cats and humans in both laboratory colonies and the home setting. Only results from data that have been statistically analyzed are included; hypotheses still to be tested will be declared as such. In some cases, the observational data have been combined with independently collected subjective assessments by the owners of the animals' character and owner personality traits to help interpret the data. Further some relevant experimental studies are also included. All social interactions between cats and humans that are discussed below assume that the animals were socialized to people as kittens, the first topic of this review. Such socialized cats show what might be called “friendliness to humans,” which in turn affects human attachment to the cat. The visual and acoustic behavioral elements used to communicate and interact with other cats can be perceived by people and are also employed by the cats when interacting with them. The initiation, and the initiator of social interactions between cats and humans have been shown to influence both the duration of the interaction bout and total interaction time in the relationship. Compliance with the interactional “wishes” of the partner is positively correlated between the cats and the humans over all human-cat dyads examined. Cats do not spontaneously prefer one gender or age cohort of people, but the humans in those cohorts behave differently to the cats causing the latter to react differentially. The dyadic interaction structure has also been shown to differ between women and men and between older and younger adults. Nevertheless, cats—merely their presence but of course their behavior—can affect human moods and human mood differences have been shown to affect the behavior of the cats. Finally, differences have been found between interactions with purebred and non-purebred cats and between younger and older cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis C Turner
- Institute for Applied Ethology and Animal Psychology, I.E.A.P./I.E.T., Horgen, Switzerland.,Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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11
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Risk factors for aggression in adult cats that were fostered through a shelter program as kittens. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2021.105251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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12
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Humphrey T, Proops L, Forman J, Spooner R, McComb K. The role of cat eye narrowing movements in cat-human communication. Sci Rep 2020; 10:16503. [PMID: 33020542 PMCID: PMC7536207 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-73426-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Domestic animals are sensitive to human cues that facilitate inter-specific communication, including cues to emotional state. The eyes are important in signalling emotions, with the act of narrowing the eyes appearing to be associated with positive emotional communication in a range of species. This study examines the communicatory significance of a widely reported cat behaviour that involves eye narrowing, referred to as the slow blink sequence. Slow blink sequences typically involve a series of half-blinks followed by either a prolonged eye narrow or an eye closure. Our first experiment revealed that cat half-blinks and eye narrowing occurred more frequently in response to owners' slow blink stimuli towards their cats (compared to no owner-cat interaction). In a second experiment, this time where an experimenter provided the slow blink stimulus, cats had a higher propensity to approach the experimenter after a slow blink interaction than when they had adopted a neutral expression. Collectively, our results suggest that slow blink sequences may function as a form of positive emotional communication between cats and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasmin Humphrey
- Mammal Communication and Cognition Research Group, School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, BN1 9QH, UK.
| | - Leanne Proops
- Mammal Communication and Cognition Research Group, School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, BN1 9QH, UK
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Comparative and Evolutionary Psychology, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, PO1 2DY, UK
| | - Jemma Forman
- Mammal Communication and Cognition Research Group, School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, BN1 9QH, UK
| | - Rebecca Spooner
- Mammal Communication and Cognition Research Group, School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, BN1 9QH, UK
| | - Karen McComb
- Mammal Communication and Cognition Research Group, School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, BN1 9QH, UK.
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Menchetti L, Calipari S, Mariti C, Gazzano A, Diverio S. Cats and dogs: Best friends or deadly enemies? What the owners of cats and dogs living in the same household think about their relationship with people and other pets. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237822. [PMID: 32845923 PMCID: PMC7449504 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Although popular culture describes them as mortal enemies, more and more often, dogs and cats live under the same roof. Does this make them best friends? Can sharing the same social and physical environment make them similar? This study compares the approaches of dogs and cats living in the same household have towards humans and other pets as perceived by the owner. Questionnaires collected from 1270 people owning both dog(s) and cat(s) were analysed. Most dogs and cats living together are playful with familiar humans (76.2%) but dogs have a more sociable approach towards strangers and conspecifics than cats (P<0.001). Moreover, the percentage of dogs that have a playful relationship with the owner (84.0%) was higher than cats (49.2%; P<0.001). Dogs and cats living together eat in different places and show different mutual interactions: more dogs lick the cat (42.8%) and more cats ignore the dog (41.8%) than vice versa (P<0.001). However, most dogs and cats sleep at least occasionally (68.5%) and play together (62.4%; P<0.001). Although some body postures, such as the tail’s position, are interpreted differently by the two species, the greater proportions of dogs and cats show a relaxed response to several kinds of approaches of their roommate. Our questionnaire confirms the common beliefs about the sociability of the dog and the privacy of the cat, but this does not result in continuous internal struggles. Most cohabitations are peaceful. Moreover, it is true that they speak different languages, but they seem to understand each other well and interpret each other's approaches in the right way. Thus, aspiring owners should not blindly believe popular assumptions, but both knowledge and respect for species-specific pet behaviours are essential to establish a balance in the household.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Menchetti
- Laboratorio di Etologia e Benessere Animale (LEBA), Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Silvia Calipari
- Laboratorio di Etologia e Benessere Animale (LEBA), Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Chiara Mariti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Angelo Gazzano
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Silvana Diverio
- Laboratorio di Etologia e Benessere Animale (LEBA), Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
- * E-mail:
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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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15
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Identification of separation-related problems in domestic cats: A questionnaire survey. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0230999. [PMID: 32294083 PMCID: PMC7159185 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0230999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying and preventing the occurrence of separation-related problems (SRP) in companion animals are relevant to animal welfare and the quality of human-pet interactions. The SRP are defined as a set of behaviors and physiological signs displayed by the animal when separated from its attachment person. In cats, SRP has been insufficiently studied. Thus, the objective of this study was to develop a questionnaire for cat owners which identifies behaviors that may indicate SRP, as well as relates the occurrence of SRP to the management practices applied in the sampled cats. The associations of SRP with cats’ characteristics, as well as owner, environmental, and management traits were investigated. The questionnaire was developed based on the scientific literature about separation anxiety syndrome in dogs and a few papers in cats, and it was completed by 130 owners of 223 cats. Analysis of owners’ answers was done through categorization and acquisition of relative frequencies of each response category, followed by Fisher’s exact test, chi-square tests in contingency table and Multiple Correspondence Analysis. Among the sampled animals, 13.45% (30 / 223) met at least one of the behavioral criteria we used to define SRP. Destructive behavior was the most frequently reported behavior (66.67%, 20 / 30), followed by excessive vocalization (63.33%, 19 / 30), urination in inappropriate places (60.00%, 18 / 30), depression-apathy (53.33%, 16 / 30), aggressiveness (36.67%, 11 / 30) and agitation-anxiety (36.67%, 11 / 30) and, in lower frequency, defecation in inappropriate places (23.33%, 7 / 30). The occurrence of SRP was associated with the number of females living in the residence (P = 0.01), with not having access to toys (P = 0.04), and no other animal residing in the house (P = 0.04). Separation-related problems in domestic cats are difficult to identify due to the limited amount of knowledge regarding the issue. The questionnaire developed in this study supported identification of the main behaviors likely related to SRP in cats and could be used as a starting point for future research.
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Pongrácz P, Onofer DL. Cats show an unexpected pattern of response to human ostensive cues in a series of A-not-B error tests. Anim Cogn 2020; 23:681-689. [PMID: 32227273 PMCID: PMC7320938 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-020-01373-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
It is an intriguing question whether cats' social understanding capacity, including the sensitivity to ostensive signals (resulting in fast preferential learning of behavioural choices demonstrated by humans), would be comparable to that in dogs. In a series of A-not-B error tests, we investigated whether the ostensive or non-ostensive manner of human communication and the familiarity of the human demonstrator would affect the search error pattern in companion cats. Cats' performance showed an almost completely different distribution of perseverative erring than earlier was shown in dogs and human infants. Cats demonstrated perseverative errors both during ostensive and non-ostensive cueing by the owner and also during non-ostensive cueing by the experimenter. However, unlike prior studies with dogs, they avoided perseverative errors during the experimenter ostensive cueing condition. We assume that the reliance on human ostensive signals may serve different purpose in companion dogs and cats-meanwhile in dogs, human ostension could support fast rule learning, in cats, it may have only a circumstantial attention-eliciting effect. Our results highlight the need of conducting further throughout experiments on the social cognition of cats, based on their own right beside the traditional cat-dog comparative approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Péter Pongrácz
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Biology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Pázmány Péter sétány 1/c, Budapest, 1117, Hungary.
| | - Dóra L Onofer
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Biology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Pázmány Péter sétány 1/c, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
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Satyaraj E, Wedner HJ, Bousquet J. Keep the cat, change the care pathway: A transformational approach to managing Fel d 1, the major cat allergen. Allergy 2019; 74 Suppl 107:5-17. [PMID: 31498459 PMCID: PMC7156987 DOI: 10.1111/all.14013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background Allergies to cats are the most common animal‐origin allergy, and affect approximately 1 in 5 adults worldwide. The prevalence of allergy to furry animals has been increasing, and allergy to cats is a major risk factor for the development of asthma and rhinitis. The diagnosis of cat allergy is now well established. The exact significance of component‐resolved diagnosis in the diagnosis of cat allergy remains to be fully understood. Allergen avoidance is effective but often has a psychologic impact. Allergen immunotherapy is not well demonstrated. There is a need for innovative approaches to better manage cat allergens. Next‐generation care pathways for asthma and rhinitis will define the place of cat allergen avoidance. Methods and Results This manuscript, based on content presented at the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology Congress 2019, provides information on the prevalence and impact of cat allergies and the molecular biology of Fel d 1, the major cat allergen. Discussion The authors present the scientific basis of a novel care pathway that utilizes anti‐Fel d 1 IgY antibodies to safely and effectively neutralize Fel d 1 after its production by the cat but before human exposure. Conclusion Efficacy of a feline diet with an egg product ingredient containing anti‐Fel d 1 IgY antibodies was demonstrated in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo, and further validated by a pilot exposure study involving cat‐allergic human participants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Harold James Wedner
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine Washington University School of Medicine St. Louis MO USA
| | - Jean Bousquet
- University Hospital Montpellier France
- MACVIA‐France Fondation partenariale FMC VIA‐LR Montpellier France
- INSERM U 1168 VIMA: Ageing and Chronic Diseases Epidemiological and Public Health Approaches Villejuif France
- UMR‐S 1168 Université Versailles St‐Quentin‐en‐Yvelines Montigny le Bretonneux France
- Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin Humboldt‐Universität zu Berlin Berlin Germany
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Delgado M, Hecht J. A review of the development and functions of cat play, with future research considerations. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2019.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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