AAFP and ISFM feline environmental needs guidelines

Ellis, S. L. H., Carney, H. C., Heath, S. , Rochlitz, I., Shearburn, L. D., Sundahl, E. and Westropp, J. L. (2013) AAFP and ISFM feline environmental needs guidelines. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 15 . pp. 219-230. ISSN 1098-612X

Full content URL: http://jfm.sagepub.com/content/15/3/219.full

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Item Type:Article
Item Status:Live Archive

Abstract

Guidelines rationale: A cat’s level of comfort with its environment is intrinsically linked to
its physical health, emotional wellbeing and behavior. Having a basic understanding of the
cat’s species-specific environmental needs and how cats interact with their environment will
provide a foundation for addressing these fundamental requirements.
Environmental needs: Addressing environmental needs is essential (not optional) for
optimum wellbeing of the cat. Environmental needs include those relating not only to the cat’s
physical surroundings (indoors or outdoors; in the home environment or at the veterinary practice)
but also those affecting social interaction, including responses to human contact.
Five ‘pillars’ framework: The authorship panel has organized the Guidelines around five primary concepts
(‘pillars’) that provide the framework for a healthy feline environment. Understanding these principles
and the unique environmental needs of the cat will help veterinarians, cat owners and care-givers to reduce
stress, the incidence of stress-related disorders, and unwanted behavior in their feline patients and pets.
The recommendations in the Guidelines apply to all pet cats, regardless of lifestyle.

Additional Information:Guidelines rationale: A cat’s level of comfort with its environment is intrinsically linked to its physical health, emotional wellbeing and behavior. Having a basic understanding of the cat’s species-specific environmental needs and how cats interact with their environment will provide a foundation for addressing these fundamental requirements. Environmental needs: Addressing environmental needs is essential (not optional) for optimum wellbeing of the cat. Environmental needs include those relating not only to the cat’s physical surroundings (indoors or outdoors; in the home environment or at the veterinary practice) but also those affecting social interaction, including responses to human contact. Five ‘pillars’ framework: The authorship panel has organized the Guidelines around five primary concepts (‘pillars’) that provide the framework for a healthy feline environment. Understanding these principles and the unique environmental needs of the cat will help veterinarians, cat owners and care-givers to reduce stress, the incidence of stress-related disorders, and unwanted behavior in their feline patients and pets. The recommendations in the Guidelines apply to all pet cats, regardless of lifestyle.
Keywords:Animal welfare, feline, environmental enrichment
Subjects:D Veterinary Sciences, Agriculture and related subjects > D320 Animal Health
D Veterinary Sciences, Agriculture and related subjects > D300 Animal Science
D Veterinary Sciences, Agriculture and related subjects > D328 Animal Welfare
C Biological Sciences > C910 Applied Biological Sciences
Divisions:College of Science > School of Life Sciences
ID Code:7814
Deposited On:05 Mar 2013 12:59

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