Learning, Training and Behaviour 99
Habituation is more likely to occur if the stimulus is repeated frequently within
a relatively short period and is at a level that is within the individual’s ability to cope.
It also occurs more readily and easily during a kitten’s sensitive period of develop-
ment, between 2 and 7 weeks of age (see Chapter 5), after which time there can be
an increased risk of sensitization rather than habituation.
Practical feline example
● Common household sounds, such as those produced by a washing machine
or television may be considered potentially frightening and produce a startle
response and fear reaction if a cat or kitten has not previously encountered
them. But with repeated exposure at a relatively low level, the cat or kitten can
become ‘habituated’ to these sounds and learn to ignore them, even if they are
later presented at an increased level, for example if the volume of the television
is turned up.
Sensitization
Sensitization can be considered the opposite of habituation in that repetition causes
the animal to become more rather than less reactive to a stimulus. Sensitization is
more likely to occur if the stimulus is unpredictable and presented at a level that is
beyond the individual’s ability to cope. The risk of sensitization is also greater the
more emotionally aroused, e.g. fearful, an animal is when the stimulus is presented
(Davis, 1974).
Fig. 7.1. Training can help
to improve feline welfare
and enhance the cat–owner
relationship. Photo courtesy
of Celia Haddon.