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10. Advice for Cat Owners
Early influences on development such as genetic factors, exposure to early life stressors
and experiences during the sensitive period (2–7 weeks of age) can certainly increase or
decrease the likelihood of behaviour problems developing later in life (see Chapters 5
and 8). But of no less importance are the influences that the cat is exposed to as an
adult. Fear or anxiety owing to real or perceived danger, or frustration because of
competition for important resources or insufficient opportunity to express normal
behaviours are just some of the factors that can increase stress and increase the prob-
ability that the cat may start to exhibit behaviours that are not only unpleasant for
the owner, but may also be indicative that the cat is suffering poor behavioural and
emotional welfare.
Managing Feline Stress
Feline stress is a major cause of both behavioural and health issues (see Chapter 6).
Being aware of the most likely causes of stress for pet cats and managing care and the
cat’s environment to minimize stress are therefore fundamental to feline welfare,
reducing the risk of developing behaviour problems.
Among the most common causes of stress for pet cats are:
● A lack or insufficient opportunity to engage in natural behaviour.
● Perceived insufficient resources or competition for resources, usually with other
cats.
● Conflict with other cats.
● Abusive handling.
● Inconsistent or unpredictable handing or husbandry routines.
● Poor health.
Indoor Cat or Outdoor Access?
There is much debate as to whether pet cats should be allowed to venture outside or
be kept confined to the safety of the home. There is also notable cultural division in
the general decision to allow cats the freedom to roam. In the UK it is not uncommon
for a pet cat to be allowed the opportunity to go outside and to roam wherever it
pleases for at least some of the day. But in other areas of the world it is more custom-
ary for pet cats to be confined indoors (Rochlitz, 2005).
